The gliterrati Sunday converged on the Ojez lounge at the National Stadium Lagos, precisely 28 days to the master-blaster COSON Week in celebration of COSON chairman, Chief Tony Okoroji, an uncommon Nigerian by The Forum.
Here is the citation of the enigma, read by well-known thespian, Keppy Ekpenyong, that kept everyone including, professors, lawyers, actors, musicians, administrators and journalists, standing and clapping on and on:
Ladies and gentlemen, please rise, if you may, as we present a tribute to a true pioneer, a man whose tireless work has lifted the Nigerian creative industry to national and international acclaim — the incomparable Chief Tony Okoroji!
Tonight, we gather not just to celebrate a man, but a movement — a legacy woven through the heart of Nigeria’s cultural renaissance. A living legend whose creativity, activism, leadership, and fierce advocacy have left an indelible mark on generations of Nigerians and beyond.
We honour none other than Chief Tony Okoroji.
Born with a passion for excellence, Tony Okoroji’s foray into professional music began as a teenager at College of the Immaculate Conception, Enugu. At only 15 years old, he was already touring with the group, “Life Everlasting”, showing a rare blend of talent and determination. Despite his early success in music, he never compromised his academic excellence, passing his WAEC with distinction.
By 18, Chief Okoroji had recorded his first album, “Super Sure”, and soon after achieved the remarkable feat of playing all sixteen musical instruments on his second album, “Big-Big Sugar Daddy” — a national record that stands to this day.
The 1980s saw him soar into national consciousness with timeless crossover hits like “Juliana”, “Oriaku”, “Mama & Papa “Wishing You Well”, and “Locomotion”. Simultaneously, he contributed behind the scenes, nurturing talents as a producer and A&R executive for the international label, EMI.
In an unprecedented rise, at just 29, Chief Okoroji became the youngest National President of the Performing Musicians’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN), revolutionising the association and amplifying the voices of Nigerian musicians at home and abroad.
As a passionate advocate, Chief Okoroji led the charge for reforms in Nigeria’s copyright laws, a campaign that saw him mobilise creative forces across the country, pressure the military government, and contribute to the establishment of the Nigerian Copyright Commission. Today, he stands tall as one of Africa’s most respected voices on Intellectual Property.
As Chairman of COSON — Nigeria’s foremost copyright collective — he continues to safeguard the rights of thousands of creators. His work with organisations like AVRS, REPRONIG, NORCODE, and WIPO demonstrates his global reach and unwavering commitment to justice for creative professionals.
Chief Tony Okoroji’s contributions extend into literary excellence with his celebrated book, “Copyright & the New Millionaires”, and his thought-provoking weekly column, “Saturday Breakfast with Tony Okoroji”, published consistently for over 15 years.
He is the visionary behind the Nigerian Music Awards — Africa’s first internationally acclaimed entertainment award event — a trail-blazing initiative that drew the admiration of heads of state, diplomats, and global stars.
A man of distinction academically as well, he holds a Degree in Business Administration, a Diploma in Business and Industrial Law, and an Advanced Diploma in Commercial Law & Practice — all passed with flying colours.
Above all, Chief Tony Okoroji is a patriot, a cultural ambassador, and a relentless voice for the voiceless creatives. He is also the proud father of the celebrated actress, author, and media powerhouse, Alex Okoroji.
Today, The Forum by Ojez celebrates Chief Tony Okoroji — an icon, a pioneer, a champion — whose story reminds us that with vision, passion, and unyielding commitment, one individual can change the course of history.
Ladies and gentlemen, please join us in honouring Chief Tony Okoroji.
