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Grammy-winning Nigerian music star Burna Boy has paid a glowing tribute to his grandfather, veteran broadcaster and music critic Benson Idonije, during the celebration of his 90th birthday in Lagos.
The colourful event brought together family members, friends, entertainment personalities and admirers who gathered to honour a man widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Nigeria’s music and broadcasting history. For Burna Boy, however, the occasion was more than a birthday celebration—it was an opportunity to publicly acknowledge the man he says played a major role in shaping his life and the success of his family.
Speaking emotionally at the gathering, the Afrobeats superstar expressed appreciation to everyone who attended the milestone celebration. He described his grandfather as an extraordinary individual whose impact extends far beyond the family circle.
Addressing guests, Burna Boy said:
“Thank you to everyone for coming out tonight. We are here to celebrate my granddad on his 90th birthday. This is not an ordinary man. This is the greatest man in the world as far as I am concerned.”
The singer noted that many of the achievements recorded by members of his family today can be traced back to the values, guidance and foundation laid by Idonije over the years. According to him, the veteran broadcaster’s sacrifices and dedication created opportunities that continue to benefit generations of the family.
Reflecting on his grandfather’s influence, Burna Boy spoke about the deep gratitude he feels toward the nonagenarian.
“And he is the reason we have all of the things we have today. I am forever indebted and grateful to him. This is a win for us to come together and celebrate the greatest man in the world today on his 90th birthday even though I know he is a bit younger,” he said, drawing laughter from guests.
The emotional highlight of the evening came when Burna Boy raised a toast in honour of his grandfather. Although he joked that he had no glass in hand because he no longer drinks alcohol, he did not miss the opportunity to celebrate the man he considers his hero.
“This is a toast to the greatest man in the world, my hero, my granddad. I don’t have a glass cause I don’t drink anymore.
“May he live long to see our grandchildren.”
The touching remarks were met with applause from guests, many of whom were visibly moved by the bond between the singer and his grandfather.
Idonije remains one of the most respected figures in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Over the decades, he has built a distinguished reputation as a broadcaster, music critic and cultural commentator. He is perhaps best known for managing legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti during the early stages of the icon’s career.
Beyond his association with Fela, Idonije made significant contributions to the growth of Nigerian broadcasting. He played an important role in the establishment of Radio Nigeria 2, now known as Metro FM, helping to shape music programming and broadcasting standards in the country.
Many industry observers have often credited him with nurturing talent, promoting Nigerian music and preserving important aspects of the nation’s cultural heritage.
The birthday celebration has since generated positive reactions online, with fans praising Burna Boy for honouring his grandfather while he is still alive. Many social media users described the tribute as a beautiful reminder of the importance of appreciating parents, grandparents and mentors whose sacrifices often make future success possible.
For Burna Boy, whose global music career has earned him international acclaim, awards and sold-out concerts around the world, the moment served as a reminder that behind every success story are individuals whose support, wisdom and guidance help shape the journey.
As tributes continue to pour in for Idonije, his 90th birthday stands not only as a celebration of longevity but also as recognition of a remarkable legacy that has left a lasting mark on Nigerian music, broadcasting and culture.
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