By Nsan Neji
LAGOS (CONVERSEER) – Grammy Award-winning Nigerian musician, Burna Boy, has opened up about his decision to delay fatherhood, citing his demanding lifestyle and commitment to touring as the main reasons.
The Afrobeats superstar, whose real name is Damini Ogulu, made the revelation during a recent interview with BBC Radio 1Xtra in London. Responding to a question about whether he sees himself starting a family soon, Burna Boy said that while he does desire to have children, the timing is not right due to his hectic travel schedule.
“Yeah, but I don’t want to start that on the road,” the singer stated. “I’m not planning on quitting tours anytime soon, so I don’t know where to now put that [starting a family]; find a middle ground.”
Burna Boy, who recently released a new album, stressed the importance of being present and emotionally available for his future children — a standard he believes he cannot currently meet due to his global music engagements.
The self-proclaimed African Giant drew from his own upbringing, explaining that the love and presence his parents showed him growing up serve as a model for the kind of father he hopes to be.
“Have you seen my mom and the way she loves me? Have you seen my dad, the way he loves me?” he remarked during an Instagram Live session in May 2024. “I know I can’t give that to anyone right now with the life I’m living. So until I’m settled and I can be there for my children every day, I’m not having any kid.”
The singer’s comments have sparked mixed reactions online, with many applauding his honesty and maturity. Fans and observers have praised his self-awareness and the intentionality behind his decision to wait until he can fully embrace fatherhood.
Burna Boy, known for hits like “Last Last”, “Gbona”, and “City Boys”, remains one of Africa’s most successful and globally recognised artistes.
His rigorous tour schedules, international collaborations, and continued dominance on global charts highlight the demands of his career, making his desire for stability before starting a family a resonant and relatable stance for many.
