MC Casino Celebrated by UNIBEN Alumni for Elevating Nigerian Comedy
Lawrence Osarenkhoe, popularly known as MC Casino, has been honoured with an Award of Excellence by the University of Benin Alumni Association (UBAA) in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry and his consistent projection of the UNIBEN brand on local and international stages.
Describing the recognition as emotional and fulfilling, the ace comedian said, “As one of the entertainers who graduated from the University of Benin, I was very excited when they reached out that they wanted to honour me with an Award of Excellence following my contributions to the entertainment industry. I have used my talent as a form of social engineering while flying the UNIBEN flag.”
Although the official award ceremony held while he was in the United States, the presentation was eventually made on a grander stage.
“I was in America when the award took place, but in the magnanimity of the Alumni President, they decided to present it on the day of my show in Benin “MC Casino Game of Jokes” one of the biggest comedy shows in Nigeria,” he revealed.
The event featured top acts such as P-Square and comedy veteran I Go Die.
MC Casino’s journey into comedy began in 2002, with his first paid performance coming in 2008. “My first earning was N2,000. I was paid N1,000 in advance, but a fight broke out at the wedding and my balance was never paid,” he recalled humorously.
Addressing the stereotype that comedians are unserious, he said, “On stage, we appear unserious, but the average comedian is disciplined, intelligent and very focused. We are calm and meticulous individuals.”
With international performances, including Basketmouth’s Uncensored tour and hosting UNIBEN Alumni events in North America, MC Casino continues to cement his status as one of Nigeria’s most respected comedy exports an achievement now fittingly celebrated by his alma mater.
