Benikrukru, an island community in the Gbaramatu Kingdom of Delta State, witnessed a remarkable celebrity Christmas event in Nigeria as the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation Christmas Carnival brought together music, culture, and philanthropy in a memorable Christmas celebration in Delta State.
The event stood out as a star-studded Christmas carnival, attracting leading figures from the Nigerian entertainment industry who arrived by private jets and boats to participate in what residents described as a historic island community celebration.
A Carnival That Redefined Christmas in Benikrukru
For the indigenes of Benikrukru and residents of adjoining communities, the carnival marked a rare opportunity to experience a celebrity-hosted carnival within their own environment. The atmosphere reflected a major music and entertainment event, blending festive cheer with premium performances usually reserved for urban centres.
Comedian and skit maker Shaggy hosted the carnival alongside former HipTV Trending hostess Nancy Isime, whose engaging presence kept the crowd energized throughout the event. The gathering quickly became one of the most talked-about moments in entertainment news in Nigeria, highlighting the growing reach of celebrity-driven community initiatives.
Nigerian Music Stars Perform Live to the Delight of Residents
The musical segment of the event delivered powerful moments as Nigerian music stars performed live on a riverine stage. Headline act Burna Boy thrilled the audience with popular songs including ‘Like That’ and ‘City Boy’, drawing loud sing-alongs from the crowd.
Also performing were Phyno, Timaya, and the fast-rising Pluto Brothers duo Shallipopi and Zerrydl, whose appearances further reinforced the scale of the carnival. Their performances received enthusiastic applause from residents experiencing major live entertainment firsthand.
On DJ duties, DJ Obi, Ms DSF, and Zerrydl ensured there was no dull moment, keeping the celebration lively and continuous.
Celebrity Philanthropy Takes Center Stage
Speaking with the HipTV news crew during the carnival, the convener, Dr Deaconess Esther Matthew Tonlagha, explained the purpose behind bringing such a large-scale event to Benikrukru. Her comments reflected a strong commitment to celebrity philanthropy in Nigeria, emphasizing inclusion and the belief that meaningful celebrations should reach every community.
Celebrities Share Their Impressions
Ace actress and filmmaker Iyabo Ojo also shared her impressions of the event, praising the vision and execution of the carnival and describing it as a powerful example of entertainment being used to uplift communities.
Among notable guests in attendance were Ayo Animashaun, Chief Executive Officer of HipTV’s parent company, and veteran singer Faze of Plantashun Boiz fame, further underlining the significance of the gathering within the Nigerian entertainment space.
Community Applause and Lasting Impact
As the carnival came to an end, residents of Benikrukru expressed deep appreciation to the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation for delivering a Christmas experience many described as unforgettable. Community members voiced strong hopes that the carnival would continue in the coming years.
A Defining Moment for Community-Driven Entertainment
The Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation Christmas Carnival has now positioned itself as a benchmark for how entertainment, culture, and philanthropy can intersect. Beyond the performances, the event reinforced the growing role of the Nigerian entertainment industry in driving positive social impact through well-organized community-focused initiatives.
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