By Esther Onyegbula

Nigerian artist, songwriter, and cultural ambassador Charles Mgba, widely known as Bukwild Da Ikwerrian or “Mr. Fisherman,” officially returns to the music scene with the release of his highly anticipated EP, Time & Season.

This six-track project, produced by Flo Beats and Caution LXE, marks Bukwild’s full return to the spotlight, capturing the essence of traditional highlife music with his unique sound and melodic storytelling.

Balancing his artistic ambitions with his roles as a husband, father, and entrepreneur, Bukwild’s journey is one of passion, resilience, and a deep connection to his roots. According to him, “Music has always been something spiritual for me. My family gives me the peace I need to create. This peace, alongside my commitment to my family, has been central to my ability to produce music that resonates across generations and borders. With the support of my family and my management team at 36 Media & Management, I am now fully dedicated to rekindling my presence in the music industry and sharing my artistry with fans worldwide.”

While Lagos is recognized as Nigeria’s entertainment hub, Bukwild explains that his decision to remain in Port Harcourt reflects his belief that true artistry transcends location. “I see Port Harcourt as a significant and underappreciated cultural capital, from which I can create music that reflects Nigeria’s diverse cultural landscapes. Where you live doesn’t define you. Once you market your product for the world, you travel to showcase it and return to your base.”

Leveraging the power of social media and digital platforms, Bukwild has been able to share his music globally while remaining rooted in his home city.

The new EP, Time & Season, embodies this spirit of rootedness and versatility, celebrating his background while drawing on influences from both traditional and contemporary music. “In Port Harcourt, we have many who’ve broken through to international recognition—Burna Boy, Timaya, Omah Lay—and I believe one’s music can impact listeners globally while being created locally,” Bukwild shares.

Bukwild is a strong advocate for Nigerian music’s growing global acceptance, especially music that incorporates traditional sounds and languages. He believes Nigeria’s various regional cultures—Yoruba, Igbo, and Niger Delta, among others—offer rich sounds and stories. “Music is universal and doesn’t need a language,” he explains. “It’s time we shared our unique melodies with the world so they can experience the distinctiveness of Nigeria.”

Acknowledging the significant contributions of iconic figures like Fela Kuti, King Sunny Ade, and Jim Rex Lawson, Bukwild encourages young Nigerian artists to embrace and celebrate their roots. “We need to educate young people that local sounds can go international,” he advises. “You can’t do jazz better than Italians or rap better than Americans. But no one can do highlife better than Nigerians and Ghanaians. Local sounds hold immense potential for international success, especially when they are authentic and true to their origins.”

Reflecting on Nigerian music’s progress, Bukwild said the industry has come a long way but emphasizes the importance of sustainable growth through proper infrastructure. “When you hear ‘Afrobeats.”