Harvard to Host Screening of Documentary on Nigerian Music Legend Mike Ejeagha
Harvard University will host a special screening of Gentleman: The Legend of Mike Ejeagha, a documentary that delves into the life and legacy of the iconic Nigerian highlife musician, on Thursday, April 24, 2025. The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. ET during the Igbo AB class lecture and is organised by the African Language Program within the Department of African and African American Studies.
Directed by Michael Chineme Ike and produced by Micstreams Production Ltd., the documentary provides an in-depth look at Ejeagha’s enduring impact on Nigerian music, language preservation, and the oral storytelling tradition. Through a blend of interviews, archival materials, and narrative exploration, the film captures the essence of a man who has skillfully used music as a vessel for cultural heritage since the 1960s.
Mike Ejeagha is revered for his unique ability to intertwine music with folklore, often delivering profound messages through proverbs and stories in the Igbo language. His works serve not only as entertainment but also as educational tools that promote wisdom, tradition, and linguistic pride.
The film, which had its premiere in Enugu in December 2024, highlights the importance of preserving oral histories and native languages through artistic expression. Its showing at Harvard is part of a broader academic trend to spotlight African music and oral traditions as significant cultural and educational resources.
Students attending the screening will also engage in a Q&A session with director Michael Chineme Ike, offering a valuable opportunity to discuss the challenges and responsibilities of documenting African artistic legacies.
This event at Harvard is one of several initiatives aimed at honoring Mike Ejeagha’s contribution to Nigerian culture and ensuring that his messages continue to inspire generations within and beyond the Igbo-speaking world.
