Tems to shine at 2026 BET Awards with historic performance, nominations

Nigerian music star Tems is set to once again place the country in the global spotlight after being announced as both a performer and one of the most nominated African acts at the upcoming 2026 BET Awards.

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The prestigious ceremony is scheduled to hold on June 28 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, California, bringing together global stars across music, film, sports, and entertainment.

The Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and producer is enjoying one of the biggest moments of her career, as she secures three major nominations at this year’s event. Tems is nominated for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, BET Her Award for her song “First”, and the Viewer’s Choice Award for her collaboration “Raindance” with British rapper Dave. This achievement makes her the most nominated African act at the ceremony, marking a historic milestone for Nigerian music on the global stage.

Beyond her nominations, Tems is also set to perform live at the awards night, a slot widely regarded as one of the most influential platforms in global Black entertainment. The BET Awards, organised by Black Entertainment Television (BET) since 2001, celebrate excellence in music, acting, sports, and culture, and have become a major stage for international artists to showcase their talent to a worldwide audience.

Her double recognition as both performer and top nominee has sparked excitement among fans and industry stakeholders, who see it as another strong indication of Afrobeats’ growing dominance on the global stage. Over the years, Tems has built an impressive international profile through hit records, major collaborations, and award-winning performances that have helped expand the reach of Nigerian music beyond Africa.

Industry observers note that her nominations across multiple categories reflect not only her versatility but also the increasing acceptance of African artists in mainstream global award platforms. The Viewer’s Choice nomination in particular highlights her cross-border appeal, while her BET Her and R&B/Pop categories place her firmly among leading global female artists.

The upcoming ceremony is expected to feature major international performances, emotional tributes, and high-profile award presentations, with millions of viewers tuning in worldwide. As anticipation builds, Tems’ historic nominations and performance are already being celebrated as a defining moment for Nigerian and African music on one of entertainment’s biggest stages.

Fans across Nigeria and beyond are eagerly awaiting the awards night, where Tems is expected to further solidify her status as one of Africa’s most influential musical exports.