Ben Murray-Bruce

Ben Murray-Bruce: Nigerian Media Entrepreneur and Politician **Early Life and Education** Ben Murray-Bruce was born on February 14, 1956, in Lagos, Nigeria, to a family from Bayelsa State. He began his early education in Nigeria before pursuing higher education in the United States. He attended the University of South Carolina, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing. **Career Progression and Notable Works** Murray-Bruce established himself as a prominent figure in the Nigerian media and entertainment industry. He is best known as the founder of the Silverbird Group, a conglomerate with significant interests in media, real estate, and entertainment. The group includes Silverbird Television (STV), Silverbird Rhythm FM, and Silverbird Cinemas, which pioneered modern cinema culture in Nigeria. His entrepreneurial success led him to public service. In 1999, he was appointed as the Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), serving until 2003. His tenure focused on commercializing the state-owned broadcaster. Following this, he returned to the private sector to expand the Silverbird Group. **Major Achievements and Political Career** Murray-Bruce entered partisan politics, known for his vocal stance on national issues. In 2015, he was elected to represent the Bayelsa East Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). As a legislator, he gained significant media attention for his advocacy on issues of cost-cutting in government, transparency, and youth empowerment, often utilizing his "Common Sense" platform and social media presence to connect directly with the electorate. He is widely recognized for promoting the "Buy Naija to Grow the Naira" campaign, aimed at boosting local manufacturing and consumption. **Current Status** Following his term in the Senate, Murray-Bruce continues to be an active public commentator and businessman. He focuses on running the Silverbird Group and engaging in public discourse through various media channels, often commenting on Nigerian politics, economy, and social justice. He remains a highly influential voice both within the entertainment sector and the Nigerian political landscape.