Nigerian music stars continue to strengthen their global influence as Wizkid, Tems, Burna Boy, and Asake secured major nominations for the 2026 BET Awards.
The nominations were unveiled on Tuesday, ahead of the ceremony scheduled for June 28 in Los Angeles.
Wizkid and Asake earned a joint nomination in the Best Group category following the success of their collaborations and chart-topping releases over the past year.
Tems emerged as one of Africa’s most recognized acts on the nomination list, picking up three nominations including Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, BET Her Award for her song “First,” and the Viewers’ Choice category for “Raindance,” featuring Dave.
Burna Boy also received recognition in the Best Collaboration category for “WGFT,” alongside Gunna.
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Nigeria’s presence at the BET Awards has remained strong over the years, with previous winners including Davido, 2Baba, D’banj, Ice Prince, and Ayra Starr, who won Best International Act in 2025.
Beyond music, stars of Nigerian descent also featured prominently in the acting categories. Ayo Edebiri and Cynthia Erivo were nominated for Best Actress, while Damson Idris received a Best Actor nomination.
Selected 2026 BET Awards Nominees
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist
Ari Lennox
Coco Jones
Ella Mai
Kehlani
SZA
Tems
Best Group
Clipse
FLO
Nas & DJ Premier
Wizkid & Asake
Best Collaboration
“Chains & Whips” — Clipse ft. Kendrick Lamar
“Go Girl” — Summer Walker ft. Latto & Doja Cat
“WGFT” — Gunna ft. Burna Boy
Best Actress
Angela Bassett
Ayo Edebiri
Cynthia Erivo
Keke Palmer
Quinta Brunson
Best Actor
Anthony Mackie
Colman Domingo
Damson Idris
Denzel Washington
Michael B. Jordan
Sportswoman of the Year
Angel Reese
Coco Gauff
Naomi Osaka
Sha’Carri Richardson
Sportsman of the Year
Aaron Judge
Jalen Hurts
LeBron James
Stephen Curry
