Grammy Award-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy, whose real name is Ebunoluwa Damini Ogulu, has drawn widespread attention after donating $100,000 to fund humanitarian causes across Nigeria.

The donation was disclosed by social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, in a video shared online on December 26, 2025. According to him, the money was handed over directly by Burna Boy with clear instructions that it should be used strictly for charity.

Funds to Free Inmates and Pay Medical Bills

VeryDarkMan explained that the donation would be divided equally into two parts. He said $50,000 would be used to pay court fines and secure the release of inmates in correctional facilities across the country.

According to reports, many of those affected are not serving sentences for serious crimes but remain in custody because they are unable to pay fines ranging from ₦30,000 to ₦300,000.

The remaining $50,000, he added, has been earmarked to settle outstanding hospital and medical bills for indigent patients receiving treatment in public and government-owned hospitals nationwide.

Commitment to Transparency

Speaking in the video, VeryDarkMan stressed his commitment to accountability and transparency in handling the funds. He said data would be collected from correctional centres in all 36 states to identify eligible inmates, while hospital authorities would also help verify patients in need of financial assistance.

He expressed deep appreciation to Burna Boy for the confidence reposed in him and for choosing to prioritise humanitarian concerns at a time when many Nigerians are facing economic hardship.

Visit to Prison Facility

Later the same day, circulating videos and reports showed Burna Boy and VeryDarkMan visiting a prison facility with part of the funds. According to Punch, the visit involved the direct payment of fines to secure the release of some inmates, marking the beginning of the initiative.

Observers say the hands-on approach helped reinforce public confidence in the project and underscored the seriousness of the effort.

A Pattern of Quiet Philanthropy

The latest donation aligns with Burna Boy’s record of discreet charitable acts. In the past, the singer has reportedly paid medical bills for patients in Port Harcourt and supported victims during various emergencies, often without public announcements.

Social commentators have praised the collaboration, describing it as a practical use of influence and resources to address real social challenges. Many social media users have also described the gesture as a rare display of empathy and responsibility by a public figure.

As the initiative unfolds nationwide, attention is now focused on how many lives will be directly impacted by the intervention.