The Nigerian entertainment industry is in mourning following the death of Mike Ejeagha, a revered highlife musician and cultural icon, who passed away at the age of 95 after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer. Ejeagha’s death marks the end of an era for Nigerian highlife music, a genre he helped popularize both locally and internationally.
Born in Enugu State, Mike Ejeagha was celebrated not only for his distinctive voice and storytelling prowess but also for his commitment to preserving Igbo language and culture through his music. His songs often featured rich narratives and proverbs, making him a custodian of oral tradition and indigenous wisdom.
Throughout his career spanning over six decades, Ejeagha released numerous albums and singles that remain classics in the Nigerian music canon. His influence extended beyond entertainment, inspiring generations of musicians and contributing significantly to the cultural identity of southeastern Nigeria.
Tributes have poured in from fellow musicians, cultural institutions, and fans, all recognizing his immense contribution to Nigerian music and culture. Industry stakeholders have called for efforts to preserve his legacy, including archiving his works and promoting highlife music among younger audiences.
Ejeagha’s passing is seen as a profound loss to Nigeria’s rich musical heritage, but his music and cultural impact are expected to endure for years to come.
