Mallam Yankee Commends Government for Supporting Nigeria’s Entertainment Industry
Popular entertainment entrepreneur and show promoter, Mallam Yankee of Yankee Entertainment, has praised the Federal Government for finally recognizing and supporting Nigeria’s entertainment industry. He described it as the first time in decades that entertainers are being given real attention and opportunities to contribute to national development.
Speaking at the Abuja Business and Investment Expo 2025, Mallam Yankee reflected on his 29-year journey in the entertainment industry, highlighting how the creative sector has transformed into a multi-billion-naira industry that now creates jobs, drives tourism, and promotes Nigeria’s cultural identity globally.
“Entertainment is massive. Billions flow into it. Before now, people didn’t take us seriously, but I must commend this government — for the first time, we are being listened to,” he said.
He shared memories of his early struggles, revealing that he borrowed ₦36,000 from his mother nearly three decades ago to organize his first show at Lagos State University (LASU). Despite facing losses after attendees forged hand stamps to enter for free, he said the experience marked the beginning of his success story.
“I lost all the money and couldn’t go home for three weeks. When I finally did, my mother didn’t scold me. That night, I promised her I would make her proud — and I did,” Yankee recalled proudly.
He also shared stories of how difficult it was to promote entertainment in Nigeria’s early years, pasting posters around Abuja only to have them torn down by officials. Despite these challenges, he remained committed and eventually helped launch the careers of some of Nigeria’s biggest stars.
“JJC once chased D’banj and Don Jazzy out of his flat in London. I brought them to Nigeria on June 16, 2005, and that was when their story changed. They became stars and never looked back,” he revealed.
Yankee emphasized that entertainment has now become a major driver of youth empowerment and employment. “A young artiste focused on success won’t be on the streets or involved in crime. Entertainment gives direction and purpose,” he said.
He also praised the global dominance of Nigerian music, noting that it now plays everywhere from airports to clubs across Africa. “In one Kenyan nightclub, the DJ played Nigerian songs all night and only played Amapiano about ten times,” he said with pride.
While commending the government’s efforts, Mallam Yankee urged stakeholders not to rely solely on public sector support. “We shouldn’t depend 100% on the government. Let’s also do our part to sustain the industry,” he advised.
He further expressed gratitude to the Minister of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, calling her a “fantastic woman” who actively supports the industry, and also commended FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for improving infrastructure and security in Abuja. However, he appealed for more event venues across the city.
“We thank you for the good roads and better security, but the roads must lead somewhere. Please give us event venues these roads can lead to,” he said.
Mallam Yankee concluded by affirming that the entertainment industry is now a serious and profitable business commanding global respect. “Parents used to want their children to become doctors; now they want them to become Burna Boy or Wizkid. Entertainment is big business — and it’s time we all treated it that way,” he said.
The event also featured other panelists, including Seyi Vodi, Jim Iyke, and JJC, alongside top government officials and notable Nigerians.
