Grammy-winning Nigerian superstar Burna Boy turned 34 in unforgettable style, hosting an intimate “Jollof Session” that featured a surprise performance by Fuji music legend Dr. Adewale Ayuba, creating a magical Afro-fusion-meets-Fuji celebration that has since gone viral across social media.
The birthday bash, held privately on July 2 at an undisclosed luxury location in Lagos, was a family-and-friends affair organized by Burna’s mother and manager, Bose Ogulu (Mama Burna). The highlight of the evening came when Ayuba, affectionately known as the “Bonsue Fuji King,” took the stage to deliver a dynamic, celebratory set that had guests—including Burna Boy himself—dancing and cheering in delight.
The unexpected fusion of Burna Boy’s global Afro-fusion artistry and Ayuba’s traditional Fuji performance left guests stunned and inspired. Ayuba reportedly performed classic hits like “Koloba Koloba” and “Ijo Fuji” before joining Burna for an impromptu jam session that showcased Burna’s live vocal versatility and love for indigenous sound.
Videos from the night, which quickly surfaced online via fan pages and celebrity attendees, show Burna Boy swaying joyfully to Ayuba’s drums and vocals, at one point even grabbing a mic to echo Yoruba adlibs.
“I didn’t expect this. This is the culture. This is greatness,” Burna Boy was heard saying in one of the clips shared on Instagram by a guest.
Sources close to the family revealed that the event was deliberately designed to keep things grounded, authentic, and centered on cultural appreciation. Burna Boy’s sister, Nissi Ogulu, was present alongside close industry colleagues like Pheelz, Asa Asika, and representatives from Spaceship Collective.
The Jollof Session also featured traditional Nigerian dishes, a live percussion set, African print décor, and a short video tribute compiled by family and friends to celebrate Burna’s legacy and future.
“It wasn’t about luxury this time. It was about roots, rhythm, and reconnecting,” a guest told Pulse Nigeria.
Turning 34 marks a significant chapter in Burna Boy’s journey. This year, he is gearing up to release his seventh studio album, “No Sign of Weakness,” which is expected to drop later this year. The album reportedly features collaborations with both African and international stars, including Shaboozey, SZA, and Burna’s long-time collaborator JAE5.
Earlier this year, Burna Boy became the first African artist to headline a solo concert at London Stadium for two consecutive years and is now preparing for another European leg of his 2025 global tour.
Social media has been buzzing with praise not just for Burna’s achievements, but also for his commitment to celebrating African heritage. On X (formerly Twitter), fans shared clips from the event with hashtags like #BurnaAt34, #AyubaSurprise, and #JollofSession2025.
“No one blends global music with Nigerian tradition like Burna. Having Ayuba there was elite!” tweeted @ToluZion.
“This is how legends celebrate—culture, music, no noise. Happy Birthday Burna!” added @RealTemsFan.