President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award conferred on Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti as an affirmation of his enduring global influence and his foundational role in shaping modern African music.
President Tinubu in a written official commendation, said the global honour by the Recording Academy underscores Fela’s trailblazing legacy.
The President noted that the iconic musician blazed the trail by becoming the first African to receive the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, albeit posthumously.
The President emphasised that Fela’s artistry transcended entertainment, redefining African music on the global stage and inspiring generations of artists worldwide.
“The world of music has honoured a giant: Fela Anikulapo Kuti.
“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.”
His courage, creativity, and conviction defined a generation and continue to inspire the world. In Yoruba mythology, he has transcended to a higher plane as an Orisa. He is now eternal.
“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.”
The President further noted that the recognition reflects the far-reaching impact of Fela’s sound, message and cultural identity, which continue to resonate decades after his passing.
“He defined Afrobeat, and you can hear and see his influence in generations of Nigerian musicians and in Afrobeats and beyond.”
President Tinubu added that the award celebrates not only Fela’s personal genius but also Africa’s growing influence on contemporary global music, reaffirming Nigeria’s pride of place in the world’s creative and cultural heritage.