According to a report by Punch on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, founder of the Silverbird Group, Ben Murray-Bruce, has revealed that he started the company with a loan of N20,000 borrowed from his siblings in 1980. Murray-Bruce disclosed this on Wednesday while speaking at the Infrastructure Dialogue 2026 held in Abuja.
The two-day programme was organised for entrepreneurs by Deutsche Partners Holding and brought together business leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals to discuss enterprise development, infrastructure, and economic opportunities in Nigeria.
During his presentation, the former senator reflected on his journey in the entertainment industry and shared details about the challenges he faced while building the Silverbird brand.
Speaking about his early interest in entertainment, Murray-Bruce explained that his passion for show business began at a young age after attending a concert by legendary American musician James Brown.
According to him, the experience had a strong influence on his understanding of entertainment and inspired his future ambitions within the industry.
He recalled that he was only 13 years old when he attended the concert, describing it as the first major live performance he had ever witnessed.
Murray-Bruce stated that the event opened his mind to the possibilities within entertainment and shaped his determination to establish a career in the field after completing his education.
The businessman also explained that he had no interest in working for an established company after graduating from school.
According to him, he returned to Nigeria determined to create his own path within the entertainment industry rather than seeking employment elsewhere.
He revealed that the initial capital used to establish Silverbird came from financial support provided by his siblings.
Murray-Bruce noted that the N20,000 loan was a modest amount even at the time, but it became the foundation for what later developed into one of Nigeria’s most recognised media and entertainment brands.
His remarks highlighted the role of family support and personal determination in the early stages of entrepreneurship.
Murray-Bruce also reflected on the difficulties that affected his business during the early years of Nigeria’s military era.
He recounted how the 1983 military coup that removed former President Shehu Shagari and brought Muhammadu Buhari to power disrupted his growing concert promotion business.
According to him, the political changes and economic conditions that followed the coup had a serious impact on entertainment activities and commercial operations at the time.
He explained that the environment became challenging for businesses involved in concerts and live entertainment, making it difficult for promoters and investors within the industry to operate effectively.
He said, “James Brown’s concert was the first I ever saw in my life. I was 13 years old at that time. I never had a job in my life. When I graduated, I came straight back to Nigeria. I didn’t want to work in any company. Silverbird cost me N20,000, which I borrowed from my siblings to set up in 1980.”…….See More
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