The magnificent Shell Hall of the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, was filled with glamour and excitement on Sunday, October 5, 2025, as the Evergreen Musical Company honoured distinguished Nigerian indigenous artistes and musicians with the Ariya Eko Pioneer Music Awards during the 2025 Ariya Eko Independence Music Festival.
The occasion was a night of joy, nostalgia, and fulfillment for the awardees whose timeless works have continued to inspire and shape generations of music lovers.
With the theme “Musical Journey of a Nation at 65,” the event celebrated legendary icons such as Evangelist (Prof.) Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi, Pastor Joseph Adelakun (Ayewa), Evangelist (Dr.) Funmi Aragbaiye, and several others who received the prestigious recognition for their enduring contributions to Nigeria’s music industry.
The colourful ceremony brought together icons of Nigeria’s entertainment scene, cultural enthusiasts, and patriots who gathered to celebrate the nation’s independence, music, and rich cultural heritage in grand style.
The Shell Hall was filled to capacity, hosting the crème de la crème of society, including traditional rulers, captains of industry, and top dignitaries, all present to witness a memorable night of musical excellence and national pride.
The event showcased a glorious fusion of music, history, and patriotism, paying tribute to Nigeria’s evergreen legends while spotlighting the new generation of Afrocentric artistes redefining the country’s musical landscape.
The stage itself was a visual masterpiece — an elegant blend of modern LED visuals and traditional motifs — displaying portraits of Nigeria’s greatest music pioneers. The atmosphere reached a crescendo as the honourees took turns performing their classic hits, rekindling cherished memories of Nigeria’s golden musical era.
A thunderous applause greeted each performance, with the audience singing along to evergreen tunes that once dominated the airwaves.
The excitement in the hall heightened when the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, arrived in his characteristic humble and graceful style. The governor, who shared a table with Prof. Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi, Pastor Joseph Adelakun (Ayewa), Evangelist (Dr.) Funmi Aragbaiye, and Dr. (Mrs.) Deborah Fasoyin, commended Evergreen Musical Company for its dedication to preserving Nigeria’s cultural identity through music.
In his remarks, Governor Sanwo-Olu said: “Music is our collective language. It tells our story, preserves our past, and inspires our future. The Ariya Eko Festival reminds us that no matter our differences, we are one people bound by rhythm, faith, and hope.”
The Managing Director of Evergreen Musical Company, Bimbo Esho, while speaking with Oodua News, explained that the Ariya Eko Pioneer Music Awards were designed to celebrate icons who have paid their dues and to preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage through music.
According to her, “This event serves as a bridge between generations — where the golden era of Nigerian music continues to inspire today’s vibrant creativity. Evergreen Music remains committed to preserving the nation’s musical archives and promoting unity through music.”
The 2025 Ariya Eko Independence Music Festival ended on a high note — a spectacular success that not only entertained but also inspired. It served as a powerful reminder that the soul of Nigeria lives in its music, its people, and its unbreakable spirit of togetherness.
The honourees include, Evangelist (Prof.) Ebenezer Remilekun Obey-Fabiyi, Pastor Joseph Adelakun (Ayewa), Evangelist (Dr.) Funmi Aragbaiye, Alhaji Kolawole Rasak Ayinla (Kollington), Ken Caleb Olumese, Ghariokwu Kemi, Babatunde Kelani, Alhaji Alimi Olatoye Ajagunjeun (Toye Ajagun), and Admiral Bamidele Abiodun.
Others are Dr. Ola Balogun, Stella Ada Monye, Dr. (Mrs.) Deborah Fasoyin, Chief Tunde Elegbede (King Jossy), Dr. Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli (MFR), Olaolu Akintobi (Laolu Akins), Queen Salawa Abeni Ibiwunmi, Alex Okoroigwe (Alex O), Premier Music Records, and Sulaiman Ayilara Aremu.
