From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja and Lukman Olabiyi
President Bola Tinubu, music starts, Davido and Ayra Starr as well as other fans congratulated Nigerian music sensation Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, on winning the Best African Music Performance award at the 67th annual Grammy Awards held in Los Angeles on Sunday night.
Tems made history at the 67th Grammy awards on Sunday in Los Angeles by clinching the Best African Music Performance for her song “Love Me Jeje.”
Notably, Tems was the only African artiste with three nominations across the global music categories; as her debut album, “Born in the Wild” was up for Best Global Music Album and Best R&B song for “Burning”.
She emerged victorious in a fierce competition, beating out strong nominees in the Nigerian-dominated category, including Burna Boy, Davido and Asake.
Other Nigerian stars nominated for the Grammys included Yemi Alade, Rema and Jordan Adetunji.
Tems, who dedicated the award to her mother, said: “Dear God, thank you so much for putting me on this stage and bringing me to this team.”
According to a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu, on behalf of the entire nation, commended the singer for her unique artistry, which has brought pride to Nigeria on the global stage for the second time.
He celebrated the rise of a new generation of young and multi-talented Nigerian musical artists who have propelled Afrobeats to international prominence, projecting the country’s reputation as a powerhouse of musical innovation, creativity and cultural influence.
“From Africa to Antarctica, Asia to Australia, Europe to the Americas, the Nigerian music industry, particularly, Afrobeats has become a source of national pride, promoting a sense of identity and self-expression while uniting people across borders,” he said.
President Tinubu congratulated other Nigerian artists nominated for this year’s Grammy Award: Yemi Alade, Asake, Wizkid, Lojay, Davido, and Burna Boy.
He thanked these patriots for putting Nigeria on the global map of great achievers in the music industry and for showcasing the country’s creative excellence.
“You are all inspiration and role models to many young people. The nation remains deeply grateful for your contributions to music, job creation, and tourism promotion. I wish you all continued success in your musical careers.”
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also congratulated Tems.
In a statement by his media aide, Sanwo-Olu praised Tems for her exceptional talent and significant contribution to the music industry.He emphasised that her achievement not only highlights her success but also reinforces Nigeria’s prominence in the global music scene.
The governor noted that Tems’ Grammy win is a testament to the creative spirit of Lagos, underscoring the state’s status as a hub for entertainment, culture, and the arts.
“Temilade Openiyi has proven once again that she is a creative force of unmatched talent,” said Governor Sanwo-Olu. We celebrate her victory, and we are proud to see her bring the Best African Music Performance Grammy back to Nigeria. As a Lagosian, we are particularly thrilled with her success.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu urged her to continue striving for excellence, noting that her future is even brighter than her present achievements.
“On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Lagos State, I congratulate Tems on this remarkable feat. I encourage her to keep pushing forward as the best is yet to come,” he added.
Similarly, Mr. Peter Obi, in a post on X, also praised the Nigerian entertainment industry and other artists who earned Grammy nominations, highlighting the country’s wealth of talent.
He wrote, “I am ever elated by the huge success Nigerian youths are making in various fields, especially in the entertainment sector.
“I like therefore to extend my hearty congratulations to our Nigerian Afrobeats star, Tems @temsbaby, who just secured her second Grammy Award with her win in the Best African Music Performance category.
“I also rejoice with Nigeria’s entertainment industry and other Nigerian artists who were nominated for different awards in their respective categories.
“Undoubtedly, Nigeria remains home to the endless flow of talents who through their creative arts, continue to put the nation on the global map.
“I firmly remain committed to building a nation that fosters growth among the youths and helps them discover and harness their individual talents for national productivity. A New Nigeria is POssible.”
The feat has also generated a buzz on Social media, with excited fans and supporters of the singer sending her congratulatory messages.
Davido and Ayra Starr were also among artistes who sent her felicitations on their X pages for the Grammy big win.
Davido wrote: “Congratulations to my one and only @chrisbrown! And to the Queen @temsbaby we are proud of you!”
Ayra Star wrote: “Temssbabyyyyyyy congratulations my love !!!!”
Some elated fans and supporters of the “Love me Jeje” crooner also celebrate her.
@ekemini_kent wrote: “Congratulations Queen”
@ehis_goldtime wrote: “The game is still on congratulations Tems baby”
@NuJhayhne wrote: “congratulations to the queen of afrobeats completely deserved”
@Ivensplaisir wrote: “Tems is on fire. Her talent speaks volumes. African music is truly reaching new heights.”
@izrel1800 wrote: “The world knows there’s crack in this jam Tems. Well deserved”
@Rhaenyra729 wrote: “Cheers to Tems achievement”
@jaay4real wrote: “well deserved grammy, congratulations temilade”
@osidagoat wrote: “THE GREATEST AFRICAN FEMALE ARTISTE”
The award marks Tems second Grammy win, and she now has more Grammy awards than any other Nigerian artiste.
In 2023, she won the Best Melodic Rap Performance for the song ‘Wait For U’ with American hip-hop stars Future and Drake.