Burna Boy Takes Lagos Energy to Gbaramutu as Benikrukru Stands Still for the African Giant
The ancient Gbaramutu Kingdom in Delta State came alive on Christmas Day as global Afro-fusion star Burna Boy delivered a show-stopping performance at the Benikrukru Community Christmas Carnival, turning the riverine town into a cultural and musical hotspot.
Born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, the Rivers State–bred superstar headlined the celebration in Warri South-West Local Government Area, joining a stellar lineup that included Timaya (Egberi Papa of Bayelsa) and Phyno, among other notable acts. The event was hosted by billionaire entrepreneur Mr. Matthew Tonlagha and his wife, Dcns. (Dr.) Esther Tonlagha, founders of the EMT Foundation, whose annual carnival continues to grow in scale and prestige.
Burna Boy’s electrifying set reaffirmed his status as Africa’s most dominant music export. From Lagos to the creeks of Gbaramutu, the African Giant commanded the crowd with ease, delivering a performance that left Benikrukru standing still in awe.
The Grammy Award winner’s global impact remains unmatched. In 2023, Rolling Stone ranked him among the 200 greatest singers of all time, while he clinched his fourth BET Best International Act award. His global hit “Last Last” swept major honours at The Headies 2023, and he became the first African artist to have two albums surpass one billion streams on Spotify.
His sixth studio album, Love, Damini, released in 2022, recorded the highest debut for a Nigerian album on the Billboard 200 and topped African chart milestones across Europe. That same year, Burna Boy was conferred with the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in recognition of his contribution to Nigerian music and culture.
With guest appearances including social media influencer VeryDarkMan (VDM), this year’s Benikrukru Carnival has been hailed as one of its biggest editions yet—further cementing Burna Boy’s legacy as not just a performer, but a cultural force capable of moving cities, communities, and generations.
Feel the energy through exclusive photos from the unforgettable night.
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