Burna Boy Honors Grandfather Benson Idonije at 90th Birthday Celebration in Lagos
Grammy Award-winning Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy gathered with family, friends, and music legends in Lagos to celebrate his grandfather, Pa Benson Idonije, on his landmark 90th birthday. The event was a grand tribute to a man whose influence on Nigeria's music scene remains profound.
Pa Benson Idonije is no ordinary elder. He is a revered broadcaster, music critic, and the former manager of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. His career has shaped generations of Nigerian sound and culture, making him a pivotal figure in the country's musical heritage.
During the celebration, Burna Boy delivered an unscripted, deeply personal speech. He described his grandfather as the greatest man in the world and credited him for making him who he is today. The music star expressed his gratitude, stating that he is forever indebted to the man he calls his hero.
"I'm not great at speeches and I didn't know I was about to do this, so bear with me. We're here to celebrate my granddad on his birthday, 90th birthday. You know, the prayer is that we all get to live that long. So this is not an ordinary man or an ordinary birthday. This is the greatest man in the world as far as I'm concerned. And this is the reason why we have a lot of things we have today. So I'm forever indebted to him and grateful to him," Burna Boy said.
Raising a toast to his grandfather, the singer expressed hope that Pa Idonije would live long enough to see future generations. He affectionately called him both his hero and "Uncle Benji."
"To the greatest man in the world, Benson Idonije, my hero. May you live long to see our grandchildren. So yeah, thank you very much for being in our lives and for creating us, you know, and making us what we are right now. So this is to you, Uncle Benji. Cheers!"
The evening was not just a birthday party but a celebration of a cultural figure whose legacy continues to inspire. Fans and netizens praised Burna Boy for acknowledging his roots and wishing his grandfather well. Many commented on the heartfelt nature of his speech and the strong bond between the two.
This milestone event highlights the enduring impact of Benson Idonije on Nigerian music and culture, as well as the deep respect and love Burna Boy holds for his grandfather.
