President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have rejoiced with Nigerian music sensation, Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, for winning the Best African Music Performance award at the 67th annual Grammy Awards held in Los Angeles on Sunday night.
The President, 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.
Tinubu, in a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, 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.
The president congratulated other Nigerian artists nominated for this year’s Grammy Award including Yemi Alade, Asake, Wizkid, Lojay, Davido, and Burna Boy.
Tinubu 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.
His words: “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.”
On his part, Sanwo-Olu, said the award was a prestigious recognition that highlighted Tems’ exceptional talent and contribution to the music industry not only in Nigeria and the African continent but also on the global stage.
Sanwo-Olu, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said the 29-year-old Tems has achieved a milestone with the international recognition at the 67th Grammy Award.
The governor said the award received by Tems was an affirmation of Lagos as truly the home of entertainment, creativity, tourism, culture and arts.
He said: “Temilade Openiyi once again has proved to the world that she is a creative of an uncommon talent. We thank her for bringing the Best African Music Performance Grammy back to Nigeria. As a Lagosian, we are excited with her success.
“Tems winning the 67th Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance is a confirmation that our dear Lagos State remains the hub of entertainment, creativity and tourism in the West African sub-region.
“On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Lagos State, I congratulate Tems for achieving this great feat, and I urge her not to rest on her oars as the future remains a lot brighter than it is today.”
Openiyi won the Best African Music Performance Award held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. She emerged victorious in a fierce competition, defeating strong contenders with her love song: “Love Me Jeje.”
