Nigeria: Tiwa Savage launches music foundation with Berklee College

The foundation seeks to widen access to structured training across the music industry, focusing not only on performers but also on producers, songwriters, sound engineers, executives and other creative professionals. It is intended to address what organisers describe as limited access to world-class music education and industry training across parts of Africa.

Speaking at the launch, Savage said the growth of Afrobeats on the global stage requires stronger industry infrastructure behind artists.

“Afrobeats has captured the world’s attention but an industry cannot stand on artists alone,” she said. “Behind every global sound is an ecosystem of producers, engineers, entertainment lawyers, publishers, innovators, composers, the person who scores the music to your favourite movie or the person who uses music as a tool for healing. These are the architects of structure, ownership and longevity. If we do not intentionally develop them, we weaken the very house we are trying to grow.”

Savage referenced her own experience studying at Berklee College of Music, where she was awarded a scholarship at the age of 24.

“That opportunity changed my perspective,” she said. “It expanded my understanding of global systems, and the power of knowledge behind creativity. It showed me that talent is universal, but access is not.”

She added that technological changes, including artificial intelligence, are reshaping the global music industry and require African creatives to be equipped with the necessary skills. “The question is whether we will be educated leaders in this space, or observers left behind,” she said.

As part of its first programme, the foundation has partnered with Berklee College of Music to deliver a four-day training initiative in Nigeria. The programme, titled Berklee in Nigeria: Tiwa Savage Intensive Music Program, is scheduled to take place from 23 to 26 April 2026.

According to organisers, the intensive course will train 100 participants in areas including live performance, songwriting, music production and the business of music. The programme will run daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will conclude with a live showcase featuring original work by participants, followed by a closing ceremony and scholarship presentations. Selected participants will also receive guidance on further study opportunities through Berklee’s in-person and online offerings.

Berklee president Jim Lucchese described the initiative as the institution’s first “Berklee on the Road” programme in Nigeria.

“The Tiwa Savage Intensive Music Program, our first-ever Berklee on the Road in Nigeria, will continue to increase access to Berklee’s curriculum around the world through the generosity and collaborative spirit of one of our most accomplished and dedicated alums,” Lucchese said. “The program presents a tremendous and unique opportunity for global artists.”

Jason Camelio, assistant vice-president for global programmes and partnerships at Berklee, said the partnership would help connect the institution with Nigeria’s music community.

“These educational experiences are best accomplished with the knowledge and expertise of leading artists and alumni. There is no better way to connect with the music community in Nigeria than with Tiwa Savage,” Camelio said.

Applications for the programme are open until 20 March 2026 to emerging musicians, producers and songwriters across Africa. Admission is selective. There is no tuition fee for accepted participants, but attendees will be required to cover their own travel and accommodation costs in Lagos.

The foundation stated that its broader objective is to expand awareness of career opportunities within the music sector and provide access to training and professional development resources for young African creatives.