Bose Ogulu, popularly known as Mama Burna, is a Nigerian talent manager, businesswoman, and academic who rose to prominence as the mother and manager of Grammy award-winning Afro-fusion star Burna Boy. Her presence in the African entertainment industry has gone far beyond that of a supportive parent. Bose has become an influential figure in talent development and cultural promotion, with a professional background rooted in education, language studies, and international relations.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore Bose Ogulu’s early life, career journey, family, awards, and her estimated net worth in 2025.
Early Life and Family Background
Bose Ogulu was born on November 19, 1967, in Lagos, Nigeria. She grew up in a culturally rich environment deeply connected to Nigeria’s music legacy. Her father, Benson Idonije, is a veteran music critic and notably the first band manager of the legendary Fela Anikulapo Kuti.
This early exposure to the music scene would play a formative role in her later career as a talent manager. Growing up in a household that appreciated music, art, and literature gave Bose the foundation to appreciate both the art form and the business side of entertainment.
Education and Language Proficiency
Bose Ogulu is highly educated and multilingual. She attended the University of Port Harcourt, where she obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages (French and German) and a Master’s degree in Translation Studies. Her academic excellence allowed her to become fluent in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Italian, and Yoruba.
This linguistic ability has not only served her professionally but also gave her a global perspective that has proven beneficial in managing international music careers.
Academic and Professional Career
Before her rise in the entertainment industry, Bose worked as a lecturer in French at the University of Education in Port Harcourt, where she spent nearly a decade mentoring students and contributing to educational development. She retired from her academic role in 2018 to focus more on talent management and entrepreneurship.
In 1997, she founded Language Bridges, a language and cultural institution that organized cultural exchange programs for young Nigerians. The platform successfully facilitated over 1,800 students to travel to French-speaking and other non-English-speaking countries. This effort showcased her commitment to education, culture, and youth empowerment.
Transition Into Talent Management
Bose Ogulu’s entry into the Nigerian music scene as a talent manager was largely influenced by her son Burna Boy (real name: Damini Ogulu). She began managing Burna Boy’s career in the early 2010s. Though she briefly stepped away from the role around 2014, she resumed full management responsibilities in 2017.
Since then, she has played a critical role in shaping Burna Boy’s global success, overseeing major milestones like his Grammy-winning album Twice as Tall, international tours, and collaborations with global stars including Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, and Stormzy.
She is not just Burna Boy’s mother; she is his business partner, talent manager, and protector of his brand.
Founder of Spaceship Collective
Bose Ogulu is the founder and CEO of Spaceship Collective, the parent company of Spaceship Records and Spaceship Publishing. These entities are involved in music production, distribution, and publishing, and serve as platforms for nurturing African musical talent.
Spaceship Records signed Burna Boy as its flagship artist, and it has also been instrumental in developing other acts, including her daughter, Nissi Ogulu, a multi-talented musician and visual artist.
The company’s focus on African excellence, independent music control, and creative freedom is a reflection of Bose’s vision for Africa’s entertainment future.
Awards and Public Recognition
Bose Ogulu’s contribution to music and entertainment has not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous awards and recognitions, both locally and internationally:
- Manager of the Year (2022) – Artist & Manager Awards
- Special Recognition Award (2022) – The Headies
- History Maker Award (2023) – Best of Africa Awards (London)
In addition, her powerful speech at the 2019 BET Awards—where she accepted the Best International Act award on Burna Boy’s behalf—resonated globally. She reminded African-Americans to remember they were once kings and queens, highlighting her passion for African history and pride.
Family Life
Bose Ogulu is married to Samuel Ogulu, a businessman. Together, they have three children:
- Damini Ogulu (Burna Boy) – Afro-fusion superstar
- Ronami Ogulu – Creative director and stylist
- Nissi Ogulu – Singer, engineer, and visual artist
The Ogulu family is one of the most dynamic in the Nigerian entertainment space. Each member contributes creatively and professionally to the industry, often working behind the scenes or on stage.
Bose Ogulu Net Worth (2025)
As of 2025, Bose Ogulu’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $3 million. Her income sources include:
- Talent management (primarily Burna Boy and Nissi Ogulu)
- Her company, Spaceship Collective
- Royalties from music publishing
- Public speaking and brand consulting engagements
Her disciplined approach to business, coupled with her international education and strategic thinking, has solidified her place as one of Africa’s most respected talent managers.
Bose Ogulu’s Profile
|
Category |
Details |
|
Full Name |
Abosede Ogulu |
|
Date of Birth |
November 19, 1967 |
|
Place of Birth |
Lagos, Nigeria |
|
Education |
BA in Foreign Languages, MA in Translation |
|
Languages Spoken |
English, French, German, Italian, Yoruba |
|
Occupation |
Academic, Businesswoman, Talent Manager |
|
Known For |
Managing Burna Boy and founding Spaceship Collective |
|
Awards |
Manager of the Year, Special Recognition, History Maker Award |
|
Net Worth (2025) |
$1 million – $3 million |
|
Spouse |
Samuel Ogulu |
|
Children |
Burna Boy, Ronami Ogulu, Nissi Ogulu |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Bose Ogulu related to Fela Kuti?
No, she is not related by blood. However, her father, Benson Idonije, was Fela Kuti’s first band manager, which connects her family to Fela’s legacy.
What is Bose Ogulu’s role in Burna Boy’s career?
She is his manager, business strategist, and brand advisor. She has played a major role in his international recognition and success.
Does Bose Ogulu manage other artists?
Yes. Besides Burna Boy, she manages Nissi Ogulu, her daughter, and has been involved in other artist management projects through Spaceship Collective.
What languages does Bose Ogulu speak?
She speaks English, French, German, Italian, and Yoruba, making her one of the few multilingual talent managers in Africa.
What is Spaceship Collective?
It is a music and entertainment company founded by Bose Ogulu. It includes Spaceship Records and Spaceship Publishing, serving as platforms for African talent development.
Conclusion
Bose Ogulu is more than just “Burna Boy’s mom.” She is a force in African entertainment—a woman who has seamlessly blended her academic background, cultural advocacy, and business expertise into a career that uplifts others. From language educator to award-winning talent manager, Bose Ogulu continues to set a powerful example of what it means to be a visionary leader in the African creative space.
Her journey underscores the importance of family, education, cultural pride, and professionalism in building a legacy that transcends generations. As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: Bose Ogulu is here to stay, and Africa is better for it.
