Entertainers and stakeholders in the industry poured encomium on musician D’banj, also called Koko Master, on Friday as he celebrated 20 years on stage.
The event was held at Vaniti Lagos, Victoria Island.
Dbanj was dressed for his event in a black outfit complemented with a mini gray-coloured jacket.
On his arrival, a cultural troupe welcomed him with his 2006 debut musical track ‘Mobolowowon’.
His wife Lineo Didi and his parents were also present.
Guests were entertained with the Koko Master’s songs from 2004.
Among those who attended were Don Jazzy, Funke Akindele, Femi Kuti, Timaya, ID Cabasa, Kenny Ogungbe, Bisola Aiyeola, Mr Macaroni, and Clarence Peters.
Also present were Ini Edo, Tobi Bakre, Ruggedman, and Lagos State commissioner for tourism, arts and culture Toke Benson-Awoyinka.
Speaking at the event, music executive and co-founder of Kennis Music Kenny Ogungbe praised D’banj for his resilience and hardwork.
He said: “Congratulations to D’banj for being on stage for 20 years, he started with ‘Mobolowowon’ and then ‘Tongolo’ with so much energy and so many songs after that, and he is still standing very strong, very energetic and still a great entertainer.
“The solid energy behind his performances is something one cannot compare to anything. So, congratulations to him. May God keep on blessing him and he will grow to 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 years on stage.
“Look at Sunny Ade, he is still there, we pray for same energy for him in Jesus’ name.”
Actress Funke Akindele commended D’banj for his generosity, recalling how he encouraged her to make her 2009 film Jenifa into an episodic play.
She said D’banj gave her with a huge sum of money to produce more episodes of Jenifa, adding that it was the push that gave birth to The Return of Jenifa.
“And till date, the brand is still relevant. Christmas 2024, we are coming up with Everybody Loves Jenifa” she said.
“So, this gentleman here, God used him to speak to me to have the Jenifa brand. I want to celebrate you D’banj, you were always there for me. I pray you will always be a force to reckon with. Congratulations D’banj.”
Founder of Hip TV Ayo Animashaun, who presented a special gift to D’banj, said, “I like to say thank you so much for all you have done for the Nigerian music industry and thank you for all you do now and what you are going to do in the future. Thank you.”
