Nigerian music continues to dominate the global stage as Tems, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake secure multiple nominations for the 2026 BET Awards, set to air live on Sunday, 28 June 2026 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles. Hosted by comedian Druski, the event celebrates excellence in Black entertainment, and Nigerian artists are once again at the forefront. Tems leads the African contingent with three nominations, making her the most nominated African act this year.
Tems is up for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, competing against top names like SZA, Olivia Dean, Kehlani, and Ari Lennox. She also earns a BET Her Award nomination for her emotional single “First” and a Viewers’ Choice nod for “Raindance,” her powerful collaboration with British rapper Dave. Her strong showing highlights her growing influence in the international music scene.
Wizkid and Asake are jointly nominated in the Best Group category, a recognition of their successful collaboration through the Real EP and other chart-topping tracks. Their joint project has resonated with fans across Africa and beyond, showcasing the strength of Nigerian music in the global market. Burna Boy also makes the list with a Best Collaboration nomination for “WGFT,” his feature on Gunna’s 2025 album “The Last Wun.”
Beyond music, Nigerian heritage shines in the acting categories. Ayo Edebiri and Cynthia Erivo are both nominated for Best Actress, while Damson Idris earns a nod for Best Actor. South African artist Tyla adds to the African presence with two nominations: Video of the Year and Viewers’ Choice for her hit “Chanel.”
Cardi B leads all nominees with six nods, followed by Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist with five each. The 2026 BET Awards also introduces two new categories — the Fashion Vanguard Award and the Pulse Award — further expanding its recognition of Black culture and creativity. The ceremony will be broadcast live at 8pm ET/PT on BET, with simulcasts across BET HER, MTV, VH1, Comedy Central, and other Paramount networks.
This year’s nominations reflect the continued rise of Nigerian artists on the world stage, with Tems, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake proving that Afrobeats and Nigerian talent are no longer just regional phenomena but global forces. Their presence at the BET Awards underscores the increasing visibility and impact of African music in mainstream entertainment.
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