Update: FG acknowledges Burna Boy, Whizkid after Grammy win

Burna Boy and Whizkid who got off the stage at the Grammy Awards with amazing trophies have received pats on the back from the Federal Government.

President Muhammadu Buhari spoke through his SA on Media, Garba Shehu, stressing Nigerians were indeed happy with successes achieved by the duo on the international musical stage.

“Congratulations to Burna Boy on being conferred the 2021 Grammy, the world’s most prestigious musical awards. He has made notable contributions in the field of music which have brought glory to Nigerians at home & abroad. We are proud of his path-breaking achievements,” the President is quoted as saying.

The statement further noted that the President “also congratulates @wizkidayo who emerged as a joint winner of the Grammy Awards in a different category.

“President Buhari acknowledges the efforts of forerunners like King Sunny Ade and Femi Kuti whose creative exertions earned them Grammy nominations, paved the way and brought Nigerian music to global reckoning.

“The President believes that the record breaking musical achievements are a recognition of the Nigerian creative talents and the awards will open doors to other aspiring citizens.”

Burna Boy and Whizkid, two prominent exponents of African and Nigerian music shone like a million stars at the Grammy awards.

Burna who narrowly failed to win at the edition of the awards which preceded the Covid-19 era picked up a Grammy for “Twice As Tall” in the global album category.

Coming back to back, Burna Boy’s push to stardom has proved there is a focus that is driving the musical journey of the musician.

WHIZKID  hit the limelight for his part in a musical video which won the best act. Whizkid did the video with Beyonce.

Sunday night, Burna Boy who is getting twice as good on the trail said he knew he would someday win the Grammy.

“I know say one day e go better; I go carry grammy”, he said in Pidgin English, “because anything wey better require planning.

Both Nigerians who are raves of the moment are being hailed as news of their exploits spread across the world.

Obviously excited by the win, Pepsi Nigeria @Pepsi_Naija declared,  We can’t keep calm! This is the champion section. Join us to congratulate @burnaboy on his grammy award win.”

Savara Mudigi @savarafrica noted @burnaboy” We did it!!!! Simple African Boys On A Mission. Aluta Continua. See you soon.”

Former presidential candidate of the PDP, Atiku Abubakar @Atiku said of Whizkid’s attainment, “I am delighted and proud as a Nigerian at Whizkid’s Grammy win. Whizkid is an epitome of the talent that abounds in Nigeria. Congrats.”

Reacting to Atiku’s tweet, Dr Halima Abubakar twitting as @Halima_Abubak said, “how I hope @atiku can be Twice As Tall as Burna.”

Senator Shehu Sani however, poked fun at Rarara, saying the popular Hausa musician who sings mostly about major political actors, especially in the North, is “yet to be called for Grammys.”

But Sani got a swift response from Yusuf Hassan Balarabe and others who are already thinking that the former Senator is being uncharitable.

Replying @Ordinary_YHB, Balarabe remarked, “But his achievements toward an online Senator will forever be remembered. That’s what matters to us.”

It may well be so.