Benson Idonije honoured at Quintessence

Legendary music critic and journalist, Benson Idonije, who recently turned 88 was honoured at Quintessence Gallery in Ikoyi, Lagos, last weekend.

The event brought together musical stakeholders from far and wide, who journeyed down to celebrate the legendary DJ, music manager, broadcaster, and columnist.

At the event, Idonije, who was a one-time manager to the afrobeat creator, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, shared some of the tips that made him successful.

Idonije, who is grandfather to popular singer, Burna Boy, thanked those who put the event together to honour him, adding that he was glad to have impacted and shaped lives.

The renowned music critic also received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Council of Arts and Culture.

The organiser of the event, Emeka Ikeazor, speaking on why the event was put together to honour Idonije, said he thought about the fact that the legendary entertainer was almost 90 years old and felt the need for him to be celebrated.

He said, “There are many people who have contributed to our nation who do not have the spotlight; and Uncle Ben is one of those. We occupy ourselves with people who appear in the headlines and ignore those who keep the nation moving quietly,”

On his part, the Managing Director of Quintessence Nigeria Limited, Jude Oni-Okpaku, said Quintessence keyed into the event because it resonated with its essence which was to “inspire our community by promoting the beauty of Africa through art, craft and culture.”

He added, “It was a great opportunity to celebrate the great Benson Idonije. The man has contributed tremendously to the Nigerian music scene. He has mentored, managed and given guidance to a lot of young artistes that are today, extremely popular. And, we felt like this man has gone unrecognised for his contribution, so it was a great opportunity to celebrate one of our own, a cultural icon on the music scene.”