How Saxophone Hub Is Changing Face Of Jazz Music In Nigeria

Saxophone Hub & Vital Edge recently hosted two prominent professors from Berklee College of Music, Godwin Louis and Jhony Keys, for a special Jazz Hangout Event at The Grandeur Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. 

The event brought together key industry figures, announcing a collaboration aimed at transforming Nigeria’s jazz scene by nurturing talent and creating opportunities for global exposure.

The event was hosted by Ambassador Afolabi Oke, the Ambassador of the African Union 6th Region to Nigeria (ECOWAS), who emphasized the importance of supporting the next generation of African musicians. He highlighted the unique sound of African music and the growing global recognition of the continent’s rhythms and stories.

 “This is a defining moment for African music. The world is beginning to recognize our greatness. Initiatives like this provide opportunities for exposure and global connections,” Ambassador Oke said.

Ambassador Oke also spoke about Saxophone Hub’s ongoing partnership with Berklee College of Music, stressing the importance of giving young musicians the best foundation to succeed globally.

 “Our commitment is to the next generation. We want the whole world to hear the unique sound coming from this continent. We are in partnership with Berklee College of Music to ensure that our students have the right foundation to be global citizens,” he added.

One of the unique elements of this collaboration is the Blackcountry Jazz initiative, introduced to Saxophone Hub by Professor Louis. The initiative has provided scholarships for Saxophone Hub students to travel to the United States, specifically Connecticut, to hone their craft.

“Talent can take you to the top, but talent alone is not enough. Character is what sustains success,” Ambassador Oke explained.

Godwin Louis, a Grammy-nominated saxophonist and educator, praised the work being done at Saxophone Hub, noting that he was “amazed” by the progress and growth of the students, especially their understanding of music. He believes jazz music has the potential to gain significant recognition globally.

“The global market awaits these budding gems. The growth I’ve seen at Saxophone Hub is impressive, and this is just the beginning,” Louis said.

Jerry Omole, the Managing Director and CEO of Saxophone Hub, shared that the goal of the institution is to produce musicians who will carry the African sound to global heights. He also emphasized the transformative nature of music.

“There’s no retirement in music. It enhances whatever dream you have,” Omole said, highlighting the Hub’s commitment to nurturing musicians who will not only excel in their craft but also carry African music to the world.

He further explained the impact of their collaboration with Blackcountry Jazz, which has broadened the musical vocabulary of the students at the Hub. Omole expressed his hope that, in a few years, Nigeria would be recognized worldwide for its jazz expertise.

 “The exposure we’ve received has helped strengthen our sound. We know there’s no limit to how far we can go,” Omole said.

It’s important to note that Saxophone Hub has a long-standing collaboration with Blackcountry Jazz, offering scholarships to young saxophonists. Additionally, Berklee College of Music has begun awarding scholarships to the most outstanding students from the Hub.

Professor Louis, who helped establish the connection between Blackcountry Jazz and Saxophone Hub, commended Omole for his work in building the infrastructure at the Hub. He also highlighted the unique experience he has encountered in Nigeria, which he believes will lead to further growth and collaboration.

 “The infrastructure here is unique. Having traveled to over 40 countries, I can confidently say that the talent here is exceptional. This is why Blackcountry Jazz wants to collaborate, and we look forward to expanding on this partnership,” Louis said.

The Jazz Hangout event, which took place on March 17, 2025, also showcased performances from several talented students at the Hub. The event is part of Saxophone Hub’s broader plan to establish its presence in the global jazz community.

Later this year, the Hub plans to host one of the world’s top trumpeter groups and its full orchestra in Lagos for the first time in an exchange program.

Ambassador Oke shared his excitement about the upcoming event, revealing that students would have the opportunity to perform on the same stage as their international counterparts.

 “By the time they come, our students will perform alongside them,” Oke said, underscoring the importance of international exposure in shaping the next generation of African musicians.

Ambassador Oke also mentioned plans to secure government support for the initiative, with the goal of transforming the lives of many Nigerian and African children through music.

The Jazz Hangout was attended by notable figures including Professor Jhony Keys and Professor Godwin Louis of Berklee College of Music, Jerry Omole, the CEO of Saxophone Hub, and Ambassador Afolabi Oke, among others. Their shared vision for African music is set to reshape the future of jazz in Nigeria and beyond.