Veteran waka musician Salawa Abeni has celebrated 50 years in the Nigerian music industry, drawing tributes from prominent entertainers and government representatives.
According to The PUNCH, the anniversary celebration took place at the Oriental Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, on October 18, 2026.
Fuji musicians Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, Saheed Osupa, Sule Alao Malaika and Sefiu Alao attended the occasion.
Nollywood personalities, including Faithia Balogun, Saidi Balogun, Yinka Quadri, Foluke Daramola and Madam Saje, also joined the celebration.
Salawa Abeni celebrates five decades of music
The ceremony featured live performances, tributes and an exhibition documenting the singer’s achievements over the past five decades.
Abeni performed several of her popular songs, reminding guests of the musical journey that established her as a prominent figure in Yoruba traditional music.
The performances highlighted her contribution to preserving waka music and promoting Nigerian cultural heritage.
Guests also viewed archival materials documenting important moments from her career.
First Lady honours Salawa Abeni
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, sent a goodwill message acknowledging Abeni’s contribution to indigenous music.
The message was delivered by Oluremi Hamzat, wife of the Lagos State Deputy Governor, who represented the First Lady.
Tinubu praised the musician’s resilience and dedication to preserving Nigerian history and societal values through music.
Abeni began her recording career in 1976 at the age of 15.
Her debut album, Late General Murtala Ramat Mohammed, paid tribute to Nigeria’s former Head of State.
The project helped introduce her to a wider audience and laid the foundation for her success in waka music.
Five decades later, Abeni remains one of Nigeria’s most recognisable traditional music performers.
The anniversary celebration brought together different generations of entertainers to recognise her influence on the country’s music industry.
