Legendary singer Mike Ejeagha is currently trending on the Nigerian internet space for his 1983 hit song “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche” literally translated in English as “How the head of the throne was sold.” The song became a trend after comedian and skit maker Brain Jotter used it in a dance skit. It went viral and created the “Gwo Gwo Gwo Challenge.”

Prior to the skit, Mike Ejeagha was not so popular among the Nigerian youth of the 21^st century especially the Gen Zs. But are they to blame? NO

The Nigerian entertainment industry is fashioned in a way legends are easily forgotten and do not get enough credit for serving the people with their craft in their active days.

Late actors Mr. Ibu and Amaechi Muonagor both had to seek public financial support while in the hospital because they did not have enough money to take care of their health, despite being popular in their active years.

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There is a culture in the entertainment industry that ignores legends when they are past their prime. Late singer Majek Fashek had to seek for public support while in the hospital before his death.

In developed countries, entertainers are not ignored, rather their years of experience are utilized when they are past their prime.

For instance, Hollywood actor Viola Davis has been in entertainment for decades and is still in high demand, thanks to the structure of the American entertainment industry.

Legendary singer Celine Dion is battling a health challenge that has affected her ability to sing, but there have never been a time she came out in public to seek for support because the system has ensured it will never get to that.

Stakeholders in the Nigerian entertainment industry must restructure the industry and appreciate our legends better.