By: Usman Abubakri
Nigeria’s entertainment sector has blossomed into a global powerhouse, driven by the meteoric rise of Nollywood, the infectious rhythms of Afrobeats, and the soul-cuddling efforts of cultural fashion. Yet, this dazzling success has cast a spotlight on the urgent need for a robust legal framework to address challenges like intellectual property rights, fair contracts, and dispute resolution. Entertainment law, weaving through structures such as copyright protection, trademarks, talent agreements, and royalty management, stands as a guardian of creators’ interests while nurturing the industry’s growth. In Nigeria, legal pillars like the Copyright Act and Trademark Act offer artists the rights to protect their craft, empowering them to navigate the fiercely competitive global stage.
A Nigerian luminary in entertainment law, Samson Jikeme has been a guiding force in elevating African music and arts to dazzling heights. With a post graduate Diploma in Digital Media at the School of Media and Communications, Pan Atlantic University, Lagos in 2016, and a Master of Laws (LLM) in International Business and Entertainment Law from Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, CA, he has become a trusted legal sage for African creatives. His expertise, spanning contract negotiation, intellectual property protection, and business strategy, has made him an indispensable ally to artists and labels, including BlackBody Entertainment.
As the Co-Founder and Creative Director of Afrocritik, Samson has crafted a platform that shines a light on African creativity, celebrating its richness and diversity. Through initiatives like AfrocritikSpaces and his upcoming column, he sparks industry dialogue and imparts wisdom to emerging talents. His efforts in amplifying African music have cemented his role as a bridge between African artists—such as Yemi Alade, Mr Eazi, and Qing Madi, among his other ingenious clientele, and the global stage, expanding the resonance of African culture worldwide.
Samson’s legal odyssey began in 2013 at Tayo Oyetibo SAN’s prestigious law firm, where he sharpened his craft. He co-founded Plaiedes and Craigs law firm in 2016. He heads the entertainment law section of the firm.
His passion for media and digital transformation led him to pursue postgraduate Diploma in Digital Media at the School of Media and Communications , Pan Atlantic University, Lekki, Lagos in 2016, followed by advanced studies in International Business and Entertainment Law in the United States.
In 2021, he joined forces with his longtime friend and business ally, Owanate Max-Harry to launch Afrocritik, a media platform devoted to dissecting and championing African arts and culture. As a co-host of the Afrocritik Spaces series on X (formerly Twitter), he orchestrates thought-provoking discussions on industry trends, creative innovation, and talent development. His incisive analyses and industry acumen have crowned him one of the most revered voices in African entertainment law.
Samson’s contributions have earned him accolades aplenty. His visionary approach to entertainment law and unwavering dedication to African creatives continue to sculpt the industry, ensuring that African talent thrives on the global stage with the legal and business support it deserves. He currently resides in Los Angeles, United States of America (USA), where he is involved in the music business .
Samson Jikeme’s story is a beacon of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to African artistry. By merging legal expertise with a profound appreciation for creativity, he has not only shielded artists’ rights but also elevated their presence on the global stage. As Nigeria’s entertainment industry continues to flourish, visionaries like Samson ensure its roots remain firm, its narratives genuine, and its potential boundless. Through his tireless efforts, African talent is not merely defended—it is uplifted, celebrated, and empowered to conquer the world.
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