Football and music are two passions that ignite hearts across the globe. And in Nigeria, these passions often intertwine in spectacular ways. Throughout history, talented Nigerian artists have taken centre stage at some of football’s grandest events, weaving their rhythms and melodies into the fabric of iconic tournaments.
From the African Cup of Nations to European club football and even the pinnacle of the sport—the FIFA World Cup—Nigerian artists have left their mark on the beautiful game.
Just recently, Yemi Alade‘s vibrant performance at the 2024 AFCON in Ivory Coast added another chapter to this rich legacy. But Yemi Alade isn’t alone.
Going deeper, let’s look into the stories of seven incredible Nigerian artists who have graced the stages of international football tournaments, bringing their unique sounds and energies to football fans around the world.
1. D’banj at 2013 AFCON
At the closing ceremony, under a sky ablaze with celebratory fireworks, a single voice rises above the jubilant roar: D’banj, the Koko Master.
The Koko Master graced the closing ceremony of the 2013 African Cup of Nations in South Africa with his superstar presence. On that historic night for Nigerians, he delivered a performance of his hit single ‘Top Of The World.’
The celebratory moment reached its pinnacle as the Super Eagles secured victory over Burkina Faso with a 1-0 score, ultimately lifting the continental trophy.
2. Davido at the 2022 World Cup Final
Davido, the Afrobeats megastar, achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Nigerian artist to perform at the FIFA World Cup closing ceremony during the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar.
His performance featured the official anthem ‘Hayya Hayya,’ where he shared the stage with AISHA and Trinidad Cardona.
This remarkable moment marked a historic presence for Nigerian music on the global stage of the prestigious football event.
3. Burna Boy at the 2023 Champions League Final
Burna Boy, the Grammy award-winner, achieved another monumental milestone by becoming the first African artist to perform at a UEFA Champions League Final.
This historic moment took place during the 2023 European Club Football Final held in Istanbul, showcasing the global recognition and influence of African music on major international platforms.
4. Yemi Alade at 2024 AFCON
Yemi Alade showcased her mesmerising talent during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.
The renowned artist delivered a captivating performance of the official anthem, “Akwaba,” alongside Magic System and Mohamad Ramadan, adding a memorable musical element to the prestigious event.
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5. Rema at the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony
The Ballon d’Or ceremony, an eagerly awaited annual football awards night, is not a tournament but a highly esteemed event on the global football calendar.
In the 2023 edition, Rema added a touch of excitement to the proceedings by thrilling the guests with his hit single “Calm Down,” making history as the first African artist to perform at the esteemed Ballon d’Or ceremony.
6. Kizz Daniel at 2022 FIFA Concert
Kizz Daniel, a prominent artist, was among the stars who adorned the FIFA 2022 Concert in Qatar, serving as one of the side attractions during the tournament.
The acclaimed hitmaker took the stage and delivered a captivating performance of his 2022 smash hit single “Buga,” featuring the talented Tekno.