Tems wins Best African Music Performance at 67th Grammy Award; ‘shining example of creativity and brilliance of Nigerian youth’ _ Obi
Tems accepts the award for Best African Music Performance for “Love Me JeJe” onstage during the 67th Annual GRAMMY Awards Premiere Ceremony at Peacock Theater on February 02, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
In just five years, Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has defied expectations, shattered records, and cemented her status as one of Africa’s most influential musical exports.
With her recent win at the 67th Grammy Awards for Love Me Jeje in the Best African Music Performance category, Tems has proven that she is more than just a moment—she is a movement.
The win, which marks her second Grammy, further solidifies her place as a global force. In a category dominated by Nigerian artists—including Burna Boy, Asake, Wizkid, Davido, and Yemi Alade—Tems emerged victorious, becoming the only African winner at this year’s Grammy Awards.
Her success, however, is not just about the awards—it’s about the story of a woman who carved her own path in an industry where few saw her coming.
Her Sunday win was accompanied by an emotional speech, where she thanked God, her team, and, most importantly, her mother.
“Wow, dear God. Thank you so much for putting me on this stage and bringing me this team.”
“Tomorrow is my mum’s birthday, and this is her first Grammys. I just want to thank you, ma, because she has really done a lot for me and my brother.”
“Happy birthday, mum. And I want to thank my team. Muyiwa, Wale, my beautiful stylist, and lovely girls… I love you guys. Thank you so much. To God be the glory. Honestly, He has changed my life so much.”
The Best African Music Performance category, which Tems won this year, was only introduced last year, with South African star Tyla winning the inaugural award for her hit Water.
This year, Tems took the trophy, proving that she remains at the forefront of African music’s global expansion.
Meanwhile, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has congratulated singer Tems on her win at the just concluded Grammy Awards.
Obi praised Tems’ achievement, highlighting her as a shining example of the creativity and brilliance of Nigerian youth.
He also commended the Nigerian entertainment industry and other artists who received Grammy nominations, emphasizing the country’s rich talent pool.
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.”