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Senator Ben Murray-Bruce: Biography, Net Worth, And Political Achievements
Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, popularly known as the Common Sense Senator, is a prominent Nigerian politician, businessman, and media mogul. He is known for his strong advocacy for common sense policies and his impactful contributions to Nigeria's entertainment industry. His journey from the world of business to the political arena is a testament to his versatile capabilities and unwavering commitment to national development. This blog post delves into the life, net worth, and political achievements of Senator Ben Murray-Bruce.
Early Life and Education
Ben Murray-Bruce was born on February 17, 1956, in Lagos, Nigeria. He hails from the Ijaw ethnic group in Bayelsa State. His father, Mullighan Bruce, was a successful entrepreneur, which may have inspired Ben’s early interest in business. He attended Our Lady of Apostles, Yaba, and then St. Gregory's College, both in Lagos, for his primary and secondary education. For his tertiary education, he moved to the United States, where he earned a degree in Marketing from the University of Southern California in 1979.
Career in Business and Entertainment
Murray-Bruce's career began in the entertainment industry, where he made a name for himself as a pioneering force. In 1980, he founded the Silverbird Group, a conglomerate that started as a beauty pageant organizer and eventually expanded into various sectors, including media, real estate, and cinemas. The Silverbird Group is credited with revolutionizing the Nigerian entertainment landscape, particularly through the successful organization of the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) pageant, which has produced several international beauty queens, including Miss World 2001, Agbani Darego.
Under his leadership, Silverbird Communications launched Rhythm 93.7 FM, one of Nigeria's leading radio stations, and Silverbird Television (STV), a popular television network. These ventures not only provided a platform for entertainment but also played a crucial role in promoting Nigerian culture and talent globally.
Political Career and Achievements
Senator Ben Murray-Bruce entered the political arena in 2011 when he expressed his desire to run for the gubernatorial seat in Bayelsa State. Although he did not win the nomination, his political ambitions remained intact. In 2015, he was elected as the Senator representing Bayelsa East Senatorial District under the People's Democratic Party (PDP) platform.
During his tenure in the Senate from 2015 to 2019, Murray-Bruce became renowned for his "Common Sense" series—a collection of social media videos and public speeches advocating for pragmatic and logical solutions to Nigeria's pressing issues. His contributions focused on critical areas such as education, infrastructure, and economic diversification. He was a vocal advocate for the diversification of Nigeria’s economy from oil dependency to other sectors such as agriculture, technology, and entertainment.
Murray-Bruce also pushed for the development of the Nigerian entertainment industry, which he believed could serve as a significant economic driver. He proposed policies aimed at improving the conditions for Nigerian artists and entertainment entrepreneurs, recognizing the industry's potential to generate employment and contribute to the national economy.
As a senator, he was involved in several legislative activities, including sponsoring bills and motions aimed at improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians. Notable among these was his advocacy for the reduction of the cost of governance in Nigeria. He argued that the bloated cost of running the government was unsustainable and proposed various measures to cut down on unnecessary expenses.
Net Worth
Ben Murray-Bruce is one of Nigeria’s wealthiest politicians, with a net worth estimated at over $5 million. His wealth primarily stems from his business ventures, particularly the Silverbird Group, which has grown into a multi-billion Naira empire. Additionally, his investments in real estate and other sectors have significantly contributed to his financial status.
Conclusion
Senator Ben Murray-Bruce’s life is a blend of entrepreneurial success and political influence. His impact on Nigeria's entertainment industry is undeniable, and his tenure as a senator was marked by a strong advocacy for policies that resonate with the common Nigerian. His "Common Sense" approach to politics has earned him respect and admiration across the country. As a businessman, he continues to be a key player in the Nigerian economy, and as a politician, his contributions to national discourse remain relevant.
