By Chioma Okoye
Africa’s global music influence continues to grow, and a new partnership is set to take that momentum even further. Payments technology giant Flutterwave has officially partnered with the Tiwa Savage Music Foundation to help nurture and promote emerging creative talent across the continent.

The foundation was officially launched on March 9, 2025, at the luxury The Delborough Lagos, with a star-studded gathering of leaders from the worlds of entertainment, business, and government.

Founded by Afrobeats superstar Tiwa Savage, the initiative aims to support young African creatives by providing music education, mentorship, and access to world-class resources. Beyond singers and performers, the foundation also focuses on producers, composers, sound engineers, and music business professionals — recognising that a thriving music industry requires support for the entire ecosystem.

The launch event drew several influential figures, including Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, who delivered the closing remarks. Other notable guests included media powerhouse Mo Abudu, music executive Don Jazzy of Mavin Records, and veteran politician Florence Ita Giwa. Representatives from the United States Consulate were also in attendance, reflecting the international interest in the project.

Speaking at the event, Flutterwave founder and CEO Olugbenga ‘GB’ Agboola highlighted how the partnership aligns with the company’s broader vision.

“At Flutterwave, our dream has always been to connect Africa to the world and the world to Africa. Tiwa’s dream is to take African creative talent global. These are not two separate dreams; they are the same dream.”

As part of the collaboration, Flutterwave has also made a financial contribution to help fund the foundation’s programmes and long-term goals.

One of the most exciting aspects of the initiative is its partnership with the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston. The collaboration is expected to create pathways for African artists to access global music education opportunities, including scholarships and the future establishment of a permanent music school in Nigeria.

For Tiwa Savage, the mission is clear — to provide African creatives with the opportunities they deserve.
“Africa has always had the talent. What our artists have needed is the infrastructure, the access, and the belief,” she said. “With partners like Flutterwave standing behind us, we are building all