Congratulations are pouring in for Tems after her remarkable win at the Grammys early Monday in the United States. Among the well-wishers is President Bola Tinubu, who commended the singer for bringing pride to Nigeria.
Tems, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, clinched the prestigious Best African Music Performance award for her song Love Me Jeje.
In a statement following the achievement, President Tinubu lauded Tems, calling the recognition well-deserved.
“On behalf of the entire nation, President Tinubu commends the singer for her unique artistry, which has brought pride to Nigeria on the global stage for the second time,” presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said in a statement Monday afternoon.
The presidency said the “new generation of young and multi-talented Nigerian musical artists” 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,” Tinubu was quoted as saying.
While some Nigerian artists like Yemi Alade, Asake, Wizkid, Lojay, Davido, and Burna Boy were nominated for various categories, only Tems won a prize. However, Tinubu said he is proud of “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,” the president added.
Tinubu joins the long list of persons who have showered encomiums on the Nigerian artist on her Grammys win. Earlier, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election Peter Obi had described delight over Tem’s feat.
“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,” Obi said in a post on his X handle.