President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has joined millions of fans and music enthusiasts worldwide in celebrating the late Afrobeat icon, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, following his posthumous recognition with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Fela, who passed away nearly three decades ago at the age of 58, became the first African artist to receive this prestigious honour from the Recording Academy, underscoring his global influence and the enduring impact of Afrobeat music.
Taking to social media on Sunday, February 1, 2026, President Tinubu described Fela as more than a musician, calling him a fearless advocate for the people, a symbol of freedom, and a revolutionary figure who used music to challenge injustice and oppression.
“Fela’s courage, creativity, and conviction shaped a generation and continue to inspire people worldwide,” Tinubu wrote. “The Grammy recognition confirms his lasting relevance and foundational role in shaping modern African music and influencing generations of Nigerian and international artistes.”
The President also highlighted Fela’s role in defining the Afrobeat genre, noting that his musical and cultural influence continues to resonate in modern Afrobeats and global sounds. He concluded his tribute with the declaration, “Fela lives,” emphasizing the timelessness of the legendary musician’s legacy.
Reports indicate that members of the Kuti family received the award on his behalf at the 2026 Special Merit Awards ceremony in Los Angeles, marking a historic milestone for African music on the world stage.
Fela released over 50 albums during his lifetime, blending traditional African rhythms with jazz, funk, and politically conscious lyrics, cementing his place as one of the most influential cultural figures in modern African history.
President Tinubu’s tribute celebrated Fela’s enduring legacy: a revolutionary artist whose music confronted injustice, inspired generations, and established Afrobeat as a global phenomenon.
