Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Burna Boy has become the first Nigerian artiste to present an award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony, marking another international milestone for Afrobeats.
The singer presented the 2026 Sócrates Award to Arsenal and England winger Bukayo Saka during Monday’s ceremony at the London Palladium.
The event marked the 70th edition of the prestigious football awards and the first time the ceremony was held in London.
Burna Boy’s appearance attracted attention as the Nigerian music star shared the stage with some of football’s biggest personalities.
Burna Boy presents humanitarian award to Saka
The Sócrates Award recognises footballers whose humanitarian activities create positive changes in communities.
Saka received the honour for his charitable involvement with BigShoe, an organisation supporting medical treatment for children.
The footballer has helped fund surgeries for children in Nigeria through the initiative.
Before presenting the award, Burna Boy spoke about his own involvement in developing football opportunities for young Nigerians.
“Something I started a few years ago, just to support the football culture back home,” he said.
The singer expressed hope that his football development efforts would eventually help young Nigerian talents earn international recognition.
Burna Boy extends global influence beyond music
The award presentation follows Burna Boy’s performance during the NFL’s first regular-season game in France.
The Nigerian superstar performed at halftime when the Pittsburgh Steelers faced the New Orleans Saints at Stade de France on October 25.
His appearances at major sporting events highlight the increasing relationship between African music and global sports entertainment.
Burna Boy has built an international career through successful albums, sold-out concerts and collaborations with global artistes.
His participation in the Ballon d’Or ceremony represents another prominent appearance for Nigerian entertainment on an international platform.
