Sir Victor Efosa Uwaifo (1941-2021) was a Nigerian musician, writer, sculptor, and musical instrument inventor. His 1969 hit "Joromi" made him the first African musician to win a gold disc. Uwaifo invented the "joromi" guitar technique, blending traditional Benin music with highlife and rock. He held a bachelor's and master's degree in Fine Arts and was one of Nigeria's most educated musicians. Uwaifo hosted a TV show, "Guitar Boy," and served as Commissioner for Arts and Culture in Edo State. He won the National Order of Merit Award and was recognized by Guinness Book of Records. A true Renaissance man, Uwaifo's contributions span music, art, literature, and cultural preservation.


RENAISSANCE ARTIST:
Sir Victor Uwaifo mastered music, sculpture, architecture, and invention. His hit Joromi earned Africa’s first gold disc (1969), while Guitar Boy and Mami Water blended storytelling with highlife guitar riffs.

INVENTIONS AND ACADEMIA:
Uwaifo designed custom double-neck guitars, built kinetic sculptures, and earned BFA and MFA degrees from the University of Benin, later becoming a professor. His Revelation Tourism Palms Gallery houses hundreds of artworks and instruments he crafted.

CULTURAL STEWARD:
As Edo State Commissioner for Arts and Culture (2001-2003), he preserved Benin heritage, promoted bronze craftsmanship, and inspired curriculum reform. He mentored young artists through workshops and apprenticeships.

LEGENDARY STATUS:
Inducted into the UNESCO Artists for Peace roster, Uwaifo won the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) and the National Productivity Order of Merit. His museum continues to attract researchers and tourists exploring Nigeria’s creative genius.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 1 March 1941 in Benin City; died 28 August 2021.
- Instruments: guitar, piano, percussion; famous for 18-string guitar inventions.
- Awards: MON, NNOM, multiple Guinness World Records recognitions.
- Hobbies: sculpture, architecture, and teaching creative entrepreneurship.