The rhythm of Carnival Calabar took on a new voice as T2 introduced rap battles that placed youth expression and culture at the heart of the celebration. At the Carnival Calabar Music Concert held at the U.J. Esuene Stadium, young Nigerians were given a powerful space to speak, perform, and connect through music, turning the concert into a vibrant showcase of creativity, confidence, and cultural pride.
From the moment the battles began, the atmosphere shifted. Eight bold contestants stepped forward, going bar for bar in a lyrical exchange that blended local languages, pidgin, street references, and sharp punchlines. Each performance reflected the realities, humour, and identity of Nigerian youth, with verses that resonated deeply with the crowd. The battles, hosted by MC Double I and MC Princess, kept energy levels high and the audience fully engaged.
More than 16,000 carnival-goers, including the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, watched as youth talent took centre stage. Cheers erupted with every clever line and crowd-pleasing delivery, reinforcing the power of music as a shared cultural language and a tool for expression.
With prizes ranging from fridges and gas cookers to sound systems and airtime top-ups, the competition carried real stakes. After two intense rounds narrowed the field to a final five-man showdown, Emmanuel Eye emerged as the overall winner, walking away with the grand prize — a fridge.
“I never expected this at all,” Emmanuel said. “I came to the concert like anyone else. Getting the chance to perform, connect with the crowd, and then win is something I’ll never forget. I’m grateful to T2 for creating a platform where young people can be seen and heard.”
Beyond the performances, T2’s presence extended into how young people experienced the carnival itself. As the Digital Technology Partner of Carnival Calabar, the brand introduced the MyT2 App as a lifestyle companion while offering line reactivations, airtime top-ups, and instant rewards, seamlessly blending digital touchpoints into the live, cultural moment.
Commenting on the activation, Chinelo Mbanefo, Specialist, Events and Sponsorship at T2, said, “What stood out most was how authentic the energy felt. The rap battles weren’t just about competition; they were about expression, confidence, and culture. This is what T2 stands for, creating spaces where young people can show up fully as themselves and connect through experiences that matter to them.”
The Carnival Calabar Music Concert, headlined by Tiwa Savage, Timaya, and top local performers, was further elevated by T2’s rap battle platform. By blending music, youth culture, and digital innovation, T2 reinforced its commitment to amplifying young voices and supporting creative expression.
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