Tinubu reacts as Fela Kuti bags Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reacted to the historic Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award given to late Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti, describing him as far more than just a musician.
Fela became the first African to receive the prestigious honour, awarded posthumously by the Recording Academy of America at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards.
Fela Makes History at the Grammy Awards
The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award was presented nearly three decades after Fela’s death in 1997, cementing his status as one of the most influential figures in global music history.
The award recognises artists whose work has left a lasting impact on music and culture, and Fela’s selection marked a major milestone for African music on the world stage.
Tinubu Describes Fela as “More Than a Musician”
In a personally signed statement released on Sunday, President Tinubu praised Fela’s courage, creativity and revolutionary spirit.
“Fela was more than a musician. He was a fearless voice of the people, a philosopher of freedom, and a revolutionary force whose music confronted injustice and reshaped global sound,” the president said.
He added that Fela’s music and ideals went beyond entertainment, serving as tools of resistance and social change.
Grammy Honour Elevates Fela’s Global Legacy
According to Tinubu, the Grammy recognition further strengthens Fela’s legacy, describing the award as a powerful affirmation of his global influence.
“Fela Kuti has blazed the trail with the Recording Academy of America’s Lifetime Achievement Award, becoming the first African to receive this honour, though posthumously.The award is an affirmation of his enduring global influence and the foundational role he has played in the evolution and impact of Africa on modern music,” Tinubu stated.
He noted that Fela’s work helped place African music firmly on the global map.
Creator and Global Ambassador of Afrobeat
President Tinubu also highlighted Fela’s role as the creator and international ambassador of Afrobeat, a genre that blends Yoruba rhythms with jazz, funk and highlife.
“He defined Afrobeat, and you can hear and see his influence in generations of Nigerian musicians and in Afrobeats and beyond,” the president added.
From protest songs to hypnotic rhythms, Fela’s sound continues to shape both Nigerian and international music today.
Femi Kuti Reacts Amid Political Claims
Meanwhile, Fela’s son, Femi Kuti, has denied claims that he supported former President Muhammadu Buhari or campaigned for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Femi described the claims as false and upsetting while reflecting on the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award given to his late father in Los Angeles.
