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The 2026 edition of the BET Awards 2026 is shaping up to be another major moment for Nigerian music as some of the country’s biggest stars earned nominations across multiple categories.
Leading the Nigerian pack is Tems, who secured three nominations, making her the most nominated African act at this year’s awards. The singer earned a spot in the Best Female R&B/Pop Artist category alongside global names like SZA, Kehlani, Ella Mai, and Ari Lennox. She also received nominations in the BET Her category for her song “First” and in the Viewers’ Choice category for “Raindance,” her collaboration with Dave.
Afrobeats heavyweight Wizkid and hitmaker Asake landed a joint nomination in the Best Group category following the success of their collaborative releases and tracks from their Real EP.
Meanwhile, Grammy-winning star Burna Boy also made the nominations list with a Best Collaboration nod for “wgft,” his feature on Gunna’s song from the album The Last Wun.
The nominations also highlighted stars of Nigerian heritage in Hollywood. Ayo Edebiri and Cynthia Erivo both earned nominations in the Best Actress category, while Damson Idris picked up a Best Actor nomination.
Outside Nigeria, South African star Tyla earned two nominations for her hit song “Chanel,” including Video of the Year and Viewers’ Choice.
American rapper Cardi B leads the overall nominations with six nods, while Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist followed closely with five nominations each.
This year’s ceremony will also introduce two new categories: the Fashion Vanguard Award and the Pulse Award.
Hosted by comedian Druski, the 2026 BET Awards will take place on Sunday, June 28, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
Nigerian and African Highlights From the 2026 BET Awards Nominations
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist
- Tems
- SZA
- Kehlani
- Ella Mai
- Ari Lennox
Best Group
- Wizkid & Asake
Best Collaboration
- “wgft” — Gunna feat. Burna Boy
BET Her
- “First” — Tems
Viewers’ Choice
- “Raindance” — Dave & Tems
- “Chanel” — Tyla
Video of the Year
- “Chanel” — Tyla
