In the Nigerian music entertainment industry, Willy Eghe-Nova, the governor of Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Edo State Chapter, has become a notable figure, following his arrest, release, prosecution and victory at the National Industrial Court in Benin City. He is a Nigerian author, music and movie producer.
He grew up in a family deeply entrenched in music, dance and culture. His parents were great singers and dancers in their time. Infact, he is deeply rooted in the cultural values passed on to him by his parents.
EARLY LIFE
The details of his early life are relatively private, but Willy Oduwa Eghe-Nova’s story begins with his roots at his birth place, Ova, in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State of Nigeria, where he got shaped by the rich Edo Cultural Heritage. His upbringing has, no doubt, played a role in forming the man who now leads the music entertainment industry in Edo State.
He began as a kid singer for the defunct Aringo Dance Band, a group of young entertainers in Ovia Community. It was a wonderful experience that laid the foundation for his future career in performing and creative arts.
Interestingly, Willy Eghe-Nova’s impact is in different fields. He worked hard to become a powerful force not only in the music industry, also in the education sector. He is a Master of Arts, having excelled in the three genres of literature – prose, drama and poetry.
AS A RECORDING ARTISTE & MUSIC PRODUCER
Eghe-Nova, as fondly called, made his recording debut in 1981 with the album, “Ugege”. The song ‘Along The Road’ was an instant hit. It was a household song that enjoyed frequent airplays on radio and television. It was followed by numerous songs released on supreme disk label. His 1991 album titled, Otawewewe, includes the popular song ‘Eki-Edo New Benin Market’, featuring Ace guitarist Owobu, Sabato on drums, Emman Osagie on Keyboards and other seasoned instrumentalists.
Eghe-Nova’s latest songs include “Iku-Ereye”, “Ude (Advice),” and “Aghanghan (inflation)”.
AS AN ACTOR/DIRECTOR
Eghe-Nova has played important roles in Nollywood movies such as Ikoka, dark secret and Aguan-Aihon. He produced and directed Fred Otabor’s Musical Videos, “Adesuwa” and others.
AS AUTHOR
Willy Eghe-Nova has authored twenty-five novels and drama books. They include “All That Glitters”, The Boy Returns, Confession of a Teenager, Fate of Omobe, The Protesting Giant, The End Shall Tell, etc. He uses his books to promote love, unity and moral values. His latest book, Lamentation of a Patriot, mirrors the present situation in Nigeria and some other African Countries.
AS EDITOR
Willy Eghe-Nova was the pioneer online editor for Gbedu International Magazine (An entertainment journal published in London). He is also the editor of Edo PMAN Magazine. He has edited numerous books for other local and international authors such as ‘Lamentation’ by Peter Osadolor, The Sojourn of An African Child The Ungrateful Friends and “Refegee Project” by Dr. Ewemade Konkons.
AS A TRADE UNIONIST
Willy Eghe-Nova has been in trade union administration for several decades. He served from the bottom of the ladder as a performing artiste, PMAN branch secretary and state secretary before his election as PMAN governor, Edo State chapter, a position he occupies till date.
He is no doubt, the most controversial PMAN leader Edo State has ever produced, having won all the cases instituted against him at the National Industrial Court. Inspite of these challenges and distractions, he continues to preach unity and love among Edo Musicians.
His humility and commitment to the welfare of musicians across Edo State earned him their support, respect and solidarity.
AS EDO MUSIC LEGEND
Willy Eghe-Nova is one of the fifteen Edo Music Legends honoured by Edo governor on February 14, 2024, to enjoy free medical services, for life, for his immense contributions to the development of Edo Music industry.
Indeed, hard work pays!.
