Afrobeat superstar Tiwa Savage has officially severed professional ties with her manager of 11 years, Mekka Millions, announcing the decision through a series of Instagram stories on Saturday evening.
The “Somebody’s Son” hitmaker issued a stern public warning to event promoters and industry stakeholders, explicitly stating that Mekka Millions no longer represents her interests. “I do not work with Mekka anymore. For booking, contact Vanessa Amadi. Any bookings that go through any other channel will be void, and you will lose your money,” Savage declared in her social media posts.
The timing of this announcement underscores the abrupt nature of the split, with Savage taking the unusual step of publicly distancing herself from any financial arrangements made through her former representative. Her emphatic statement that she “will not be liable for any financial loss transactions made through him” suggests potential complications that may have precipitated this professional divorce.
Stepping into the void left by Mekka Millions is Vanessa Amadi, whom Savage has designated as her new manager. The transition marks a new chapter for the Grammy-nominated artist, who has consistently ranked among Africa’s most successful female musicians.
The professional relationship between Savage and Mekka Millions began in 2013, when he assumed managerial responsibilities from the singer’s ex-husband, Tee Billz (Tunji Balogun). This transition occurred during a particularly tumultuous period in Savage’s personal life, as her marriage to Tee Billz was publicly unraveling amid allegations of financial mismanagement and infidelity.
During Mekka Millions’ tenure, Savage’s career reached unprecedented heights. She became the first African artist to sign with Universal Music Group, releasing multiple chart-topping albums and establishing herself as a global ambassador for Afrobeat music. Her collaborations with international artists and performances on world stages, including her memorable appearance in Beyoncé’s “The Lion King: The Gift” album, occurred under his management.
The entertainment industry has witnessed several high-profile artist-manager separations in recent years, often involving disputes over financial arrangements, creative control, or strategic direction. While Savage has not disclosed the specific reasons behind her decision, the public nature of her announcement and the urgency of her warnings to booking agents suggest underlying tensions that may have reached a breaking point.
For Vanessa Amadi, the appointment represents both an opportunity and a significant challenge. Taking over the management of an artist of Savage’s caliber requires navigating complex international contracts, endorsement deals, and a packed touring schedule that spans multiple continents.
Industry observers will be closely watching how this transition affects Savage’s upcoming projects and performances. The singer has several high-profile commitments on her calendar, and ensuring seamless continuity in her professional operations will be crucial for maintaining her momentum in the competitive global music market.
This development adds another chapter to the ongoing evolution of Nigeria’s music industry, where the relationship between artists and their management teams continues to shape careers and influence the sector’s growth trajectory.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
After 11 years, Afrobeat star Tiwa Savage has abruptly fired her manager, Mekka Millions, and publicly warned the industry to stop booking through him or risk losing money. The split appears contentious, given Savage’s urgent public warnings about financial liability. Vanessa Amadi now assumes management duties for one of Africa’s most prominent music exports.
