As a Nigerian witnessing the exploits of Nigerians globally, I am super proud of the achievements and breakthroughs of the likes of Victor Osimhen – one of the hottest soccer strikers who receive accolades in comparison to Kylian Mbappe of France, and Erling Haaland of Manchester City football club. The recent announcement that Burna Boy will be headlining the UEFA Champions League final in June, got me marveling about how far Afrobeats and Nigerian youths have come in the last decade. These exploits include Davido performing at the closing ceremony of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar and Wizkid winning a Grammy with Beyonce. The list of exploits-making Nigerians also includes the landmark achievement of Greco-Nigerian – Giannis Antetokounmpo who might win his second NBA title within 3 seasons by the end of this season. And Cynthia Erivo, who is one award shy of being an EGOT – winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards.

While documenting these Nigerians, I have always felt that Tems – Temilade Openiyi was an oddity. I felt she is experiencing what most Nigerians would term favour without labour. Or at best little labour with exceeding favour. I could not reconcile the fact that while Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade had slaved and competed to be crowned African Queen – Tems is now arguably the Queen of Afrobeats. And on her way to becoming a global Queen of other genres. Then my ignorance was cured when I watched the NBA All-Star Show that featured an all-Nigerian cast that started with the African Giant – Burna Boy who was introduced by the Toronto Raptor Basketballer Pascal Siakam. Siakam added in his short intro that the night would be graced by the new King Rema and Queen – Tems. At this point, I was still not impressed. 

Then Tems graced the stage with a stage presence that only a certified Queen can command. My un-updated database got updated the moment she started singing and dancing. At the end of her performance, I had become a certified fan. I started understanding why the United States of America is in love with this highly talented damsel. The icing on her skill set which includes singing and songwriting, is the fact that she is humble with the added attribute of being one of the most naturally beautiful entertainers out there. That these details eluded me for a long time was a surprise, but it is a testament to the fact that Tems has allowed her skills to speak for her. Our developed talents are our most potent love potion to charm the world. But charming the world is only the beginning. Listening to a one-hour compilation of her music reinforced in my mind my new conclusion that she deserves all that she is presently enjoying. If you desire the same – discover, develop, and deploy your talent.

Ata Ukuta – Editor, Towncryyers