President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the singer Tems on her win at the 67th Academy Grammy Awards.
The Nigerian songstress took home the award for ‘Best African Music Performance’ for her song ‘Love Me JeJe’, defeating fellow countrypeople Yemi Alade, Asake, Wizkid, Davido, Lojay, and Burna Boy.
In a statement by Bayo Onanuga, the president’s spokesperson, Tinubu praised Tems for her unique style and for bringing pride to Nigeria on the global stage.
“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,” the statement reads in part.
The president also celebrated other Nigerian artistes who have contributed to the global popularity of Afrobeats.
“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,” it added.
‘Love Me Jeje,‘ which samples Seyi Sodimu’s 1997 song of the same name, has received widespread critical acclaim since its release in April 2024.
The singer, born Temilade Openiyi, started to gain popularity in 2020, courtesy of her collaboration with Wizkid on the song ‘Essence’.
This is Tems’ second Grammy win, following her 2023 victory in the ‘Best Melodic Rap Performance’ category for her role in ‘Wait for U’, a collaboration with Future and Drake.
By Pelumi Bolawa @TheCable
