LOS ANGELES — Nigeria’s music industry is heading into the BET Awards 2026 with its strongest showing in years. Wizkid, Tems, Asake, and Burna Boy lead a group of Nigerian and Nigerian-descent stars who secured major nominations for the ceremony on June 28 in Los Angeles.
Comedian Druski will host the event, according to the organisers. Cardi B leads all nominations with six, including Album of the Year for her project “Am I the Drama?”
Related News
Nigeria’s Nominations
Wizkid and Asake landed a Best Group nomination, following their hugely successful joint project and several chart-topping releases. It is a rare double-act nomination for two Nigerian solo artists.
Tems earned three nominations, her highest count ever at the BET Awards. She is in the running for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, the BET Her Award for her song “First,” and the Viewers’ Choice Award for “Raindance,” her collaboration with British rapper Dave.
Related News
Burna Boy secured a Best Collaboration nomination for his joint work on the FIFA World Cup anthem “Dai Dai” with Shakira.
Beyond Music
Nigerian heritage actors also made a strong showing in the film and television categories. Ayo Edebiri and Cynthia Erivo received Best Actress nominations, while Damson Idris was nominated for Best Actor. The breadth of the nominations reflects how far Nigerian cultural influence has expanded.
Growing Global Reach
Music analysts say Nigeria’s consistent performance at global award shows is no longer surprising. It is now expected.
“The question is no longer whether Nigerians will show up at these awards,” said one entertainment journalist. “The question is how many they will win.”
The BET Awards ceremony will be broadcast live across multiple platforms on June 28.
