Veteran Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer Cobhams Asuquo has openly criticised the Grammy Awards following the results of its 68th edition, which took place in Los Angeles.
In a video message shared on his Instagram page, Asuquo expressed concern over the absence of Nigerian winners at the ceremony, despite the country having a strong showing among the nominees.
He argued that Nigerian artistes are being used to attract global attention and economic benefits to Los Angeles, without receiving lasting recognition in return. According to him, the process feels like hope is repeatedly offered, only for it to be withdrawn at the final stage.
Asuquo described the situation as a pattern where Nigerian talents help drive interest, tourism, and economic activity around the event, while awards ultimately go elsewhere.
He further stated that constant nominations without victories expose weaknesses in what he called the global validation system, adding that Nigeria’s music industry may be placing excessive value on foreign approval.
The respected producer emphasized the need for Nigeria to focus more on building credible homegrown institutions and platforms that truly reflect and celebrate its cultural identity, rather than depending on international awards.
He noted that major global events such as the Super Bowl are largely structured to promote American culture, suggesting that Africans should take inspiration from this approach by investing more deliberately in their own creative ecosystems.
At the 2026 Grammy Awards held in Los Angeles, South African star Tyla won the Best African Music Performance category with her track Push 2 Start, edging out several Nigerian nominees.
Nigerian songs nominated in the category included With You by Davido featuring Omah Lay, Love by Burna Boy, and Gimme Dat by Ayra Starr and Wizkid, among others, once again highlighting Nigeria’s strong presence but continued absence from the winner’s list.
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