In 2005, one of Nigeria’s tremendously blooming record labels was unveiled by a Nigerian lawyer, Audu Maikori,(entrepreneur, social activist, public speaker and creative industry expert, also the cofounder and executive vice chairman of the Chocolate City Group) together with Paul Okuegu and Yahaya Maikori. This record label is generally regarded as on eof the most indigenous urban record labels in Africa.

History of Chocolate City

Founded as a night club in 1997, Chocolate City became the most promoting outfit in the Northern part of Nigeria and later moved into the industry mainstream following the launching of the music label, Chocolate City Music.

Founder, lawyer Audu Okuegu

Activism

In 2001,Audu Maikori and Paul Okuegu founded the Guild of Artistes and Poets, which was called an arts appreciation society,which held weekly meetings and focused in arts, music, poetry and creativity as a means of youth engagement and empowerment.

Chocolate City was the first Nigerian music company to attain a global award and recognition by the British council in 2007, that is, The International Young Music Entrepreneur of the Year (IYMEY) in 2007.

The label is currently headed by Mr. Abuchi Peter Ugwu, who took over from M.I Abaga.

Key people

• Hakeem Belo-Osagie
• Audu Maikori
• Paul Okuegu
• Yahaya Maikori

Headquarters

• Lagos
• Abuja
• Nairobi
• New York City

Previously signed artists

• Victoria Kimani
• Ice Prince
• DJ Caise
• DJ Lambo
• Jeremiah Gyang
• Ruby Gyang
• Pryse
• Koker
• Brymo
• Jess Jagz
• Lemon Adisa
• Ljay

and many other renowned musical icons.

Current Artists

Chocolate City Records is working towards the development and growth of upcoming artists signed on their record label with vast followers and artists with phantasy alongside originality and the undying spirit to achieve greater heights in the music industry. These artists include

• Nosa
• Dice Allies
• Ruby Gyang
• Ckay
• Yung L
• ClassiQ
• BlaqBonez
• Candy Bleaks
• Young Johnny
• Noon Dave
• Major AJ

Chocolate City has since worked closely with the Federal Government of Nigeria as well as a number of international organizations like the British council in promoting the creative industries as well as capacity building projects in an around Nigeria.

Chocolate City has also been active in the the promotion of the creative industries globally having participated in several workshops and initiatives.

It is highly unarguable that Chocolate City has been at the fore front of creativity, ingenuity and innovation in the support of vibrant creative industries in Nigeria hoping to build a brighter future for the youth.

written by Ruth Ama Onumah