By Niyi Jacobs
The Carnival Calabar Music Concert came alive with pulsating beats, vibrant cultural expression and infectious youth energy as telecommunications brand T2 unveiled a groundbreaking rap battle platform at the U.J. Esuene Stadium, adding a fresh dimension to Africa’s biggest street party.
For the first time in the history of the Carnival Calabar concert, T2 created a dedicated space for young people to showcase their lyrical prowess, creativity and self-expression before a massive live audience. The innovative activation drew cheers from over 16,000 carnival revellers, including the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu.
Eight bold contestants took centre stage, going bar for bar in an electrifying rap showdown that blended local languages, pidgin and sharp punchlines. Many of the rappers cleverly infused the T2 brand into their verses, further thrilling the crowd. The battles, anchored by the energetic duo of MC Double I and MC Princess, kept the stadium buzzing as the performances were beamed live and met with roaring applause.
With exciting prizes on the line, the competition intensity soared. Contestants vied for rewards ranging from gas cylinders, refrigerators, rechargeable fans, sound systems and gas cookers to airtime top-ups, raising the stakes and fueling memorable performances.
After two gripping rounds that whittled the contestants down to a final five, Emmanuel Eye emerged victorious, clinching the grand prize of a refrigerator. Overflowing with excitement, Emmanuel described the moment as surreal.
“I never expected this at all. I came to the concert like anybody else and was pleasantly surprised to hear about the rap battle sponsored by T2,” he said. “When I got the chance to perform, I just went for it. To be named the overall best is absolutely amazing. I’m grateful to T2 for creating this platform for me and other young talents to shine.”
Beyond the stage performances, T2’s presence delivered tangible value to attendees, with hundreds reactivating their T2 lines and many others receiving airtime and branded gift items. The activation reinforced the brand’s commitment to meaningful youth engagement and connection.
Speaking on the initiative, Chinelo Manefo, Specialist, Events and Sponsorship at T2, praised the overwhelming response from both performers and the audience.
“The energy was incredible, not just from the rappers but from the crowd as well. It was highly competitive and electrifying,” she said. “This is exactly what T2 stands for—creating platforms that celebrate youth, culture and creativity while connecting people to the excitement of Carnival Calabar. Seeing how immersed the audience was proves the power of music and culture to empower the next generation.”
The Carnival’s mega concert, which featured top artistes such as Tiwa Savage, Timaya and several local performers, was further energized by T2’s unique rap battle concept. By seamlessly blending music, culture and youth expression, T2 delivered an interactive experience that left a lasting impression on attendees.
More than just entertainment, the rap battle stood out as a dynamic celebration of young talent, reinforcing T2’s position as a youth-centric brand committed to amplifying young voices and creating opportunities for Nigeria’s next generation to thrive.
