By Florence Allor
Nigerian music heavyweights Tems, Wizkid, Burna Boy and Asake have all secured nominations for the upcoming 2026 BET Awards.
The official nominations list, published on BET.com, recognises these performers across several premier international and music categories. Tems leads the African contingent with three nods: Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, the BET Her Award for her track “First”, and a Viewers’ Choice nomination for her Dave collaboration, “Raindance”.
Meanwhile, Asake and Wizkid have landed a joint nomination in the Best Group category following their recent successful collaboration and impressive global run. Burna Boy has also been shortlisted in the Best Collaboration category for his feature on Gunna’s track, “WGFT”.
This achievement highlights the burgeoning influence of Nigerian musicians on the world stage. Wizkid remains one of Africa’s most decorated BET winners, whilst Burna Boy has consistently dominated the international categories. Past Nigerian winners include Davido, 2Baba, D’banj, Ice Prince, and Ayra Starr, who claimed Best International Act in 2025.
British and global talent of Nigerian descent also feature prominently in the acting categories, with Ayo Edebiri and Cynthia Erivo nominated for Best Actress, and Damson Idris up for Best Actor.
The 2026 BET Awards will take place on 28 June at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
The ceremony is set to be hosted by comedian Druski, who will become the youngest host in the event’s history. Celebrating excellence across music, film, literature and philanthropy, the star-studded event will gather leading global entertainers to honour pivotal contributors to Black culture.
