The Queen of Rap stunned fans when she announced the surprise special guest, with the sold-out crowd at the huge new arena issuing the loudest scream heard in M11 in years (no offence, Man City).

 

After bringing out Central Cee for her first night in the city, Nicki turned way more local for her second, rescheduled show.

The star had been promising an extra treat to apologise for the delays (… she got arrested in Amsterdam) and she definitely gave the Barbz what they were after.

Aitch performed his massive single Baby in front of the adoring crowd.

He dressed up for the occasion too – Nicki Minaj gigs practically have a pink dress code requirement at this point and Aitch arrived in a top-to-toe pink tracksuit.

Watch the moment Aitch comes out as a surprise guest for Nicki Minaj here:

The Moston-𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧 star is a big fan of making a surprise appearance.

He’s also performed surprise sets with Coldplay at the Etihad Stadium, N-Dubz at the AO Arena, and D-Block at Parklife festival.

That’s not to mention him popping up as a surprise headliner at Wireless several times, plus appearing in Iceland and Subway.

Rumours are swirling that he’ll appear at Parklife this year too, after DJ Fisher had to pull out for personal reasons.

He made up part of a huge gig for Manchester, with the Pink Friday 2 World Tour landing here on both 30 May and 3 June.

All the hiccups with Nicki’s original date, which saw fans sent home after entering the arena, have been worth it.