Our Reporter
Abuja:President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to Afrobeat icon Fela Anikulapo Kuti, describing him as a philosopher whose music reshaped global consciousness, following the late legend’s posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Tinubu called Fela more than a musician: a fearless voice, philosopher of freedom, and revolutionary who fought injustice through music.
The president added that Fela’s courage, creativity and conviction not only defined a generation but continue to ignite joy and inspiration in audiences worldwide.
In a Sunday statement in Abuja, Tinubu said Fela’s legacy transcends time, describing him as culturally and spiritually eternal.
He noted that Fela became the first African to receive the Recording Academy of America’s Lifetime Achievement Award, though it was posthumous.
The president said the honour affirmed Fela’s enduring global influence and his foundational role in shaping modern African music.
Tinubu emphasised that Fela’s innovative fusion of traditional African rhythms with jazz, funk, and highlife shaped the unique sound of Afrobeat.
He noted that Fela’s approach has deeply influenced new generations of Nigerian artists, and his musical style can be traced in the sounds of Afrobeats and other contemporary global music genres.
“He defined Afrobeat, and his vibrant influence shines through generations of Nigerian musicians, in Afrobeats, and resonates brilliantly worldwide.
“Fela lives on, inspiring joy and pride,” the president proclaimed.
