Nigeria’s cultural footprint continues to expand across borders—not just through its chart-topping music, but also via memorable performances at some of football’s most iconic global events.
From the FIFA World Cup to the Ballon d’Or, Nigerian artists have delivered powerful shows that blend sport and sound, spotlighting the country’s rich musical heritage on the world’s biggest stages.
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Here are some of the most notable appearances by Nigerian musicians at international football events:
Davido – 2022 FIFA World Cup Final Draw (Qatar)
In a landmark moment for Afrobeats, Davido performed at the final draw of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Doha, Qatar. Sharing the stage with Trinidad Cardona and Aisha, the trio performed the official tournament song, “Hayya Hayya (Better Together)”. Davido made history as the first Nigerian artist to feature on a FIFA World Cup official soundtrack—an unprecedented cultural milestone for both Nigeria and Afrobeats.
Burna Boy – 2023 UEFA Champions League Final (Istanbul)
Burna Boy brought his signature Afrofusion energy to Istanbul as the headline performer for the UEFA Champions League Final Kick-Off Show. Taking place ahead of the clash between Manchester City and Inter Milan at the Atatürk Olympic Stadium, his performance—alongside Brazilian pop icon Anitta—enthralled millions of viewers worldwide, with hits like “Last Last” and “It’s Plenty” lighting up the stage.
Tems – 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Final (USA)
Grammy-winning singer Tems delivered a captivating halftime performance at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Sharing the spotlight with international stars Doja Cat and J Balvin, Tems became the first Nigerian female artist to perform at a FIFA Club World Cup final—solidifying her place on football’s global entertainment map with her soulful vocals and commanding presence.
Rema – 2023 Ballon d’Or Ceremony (Paris)
Rema made a powerful cultural statement at the 2023 Ballon d’Or awards in Paris, performing his global hit “Calm Down” during the star-studded ceremony. As the football world’s elite gathered to celebrate excellence on the pitch, Rema’s performance brought Nigerian music into the heart of the occasion, marking the first-ever appearance by a Nigerian artist at the prestigious event.
Yemi Alade – 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Opening Ceremony
Yemi Alade added a splash of Nigerian flair to the AFCON 2023 opening ceremony in Côte d’Ivoire. Performing alongside Ivorian group Magic System and Egyptian star Mohamed Ramadan, Alade helped set the tone for the continent’s premier football competition. Her vibrant performance highlighted African unity and artistic excellence on a night broadcast to millions across Africa and beyond.
Femi Kuti – 2010 FIFA World Cup (South Africa)
Afrobeat icon Femi Kuti was a key figure during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa—the first time the tournament was held on African soil. Performing at official concerts and events in Johannesburg, Kuti’s presence was both symbolic and electric, paying tribute to Nigeria’s musical roots and the legacy of his father, Fela Kuti, during a watershed moment for African football.
The Rhythm of the Game: Nigeria’s Cultural Anthem
These groundbreaking performances not only reflect Nigeria’s growing influence in global pop culture but also underscore the unique ability of music to unite fans across languages, countries, and continents. As football continues to evolve into an ever more global spectacle, Nigerian artists are right at the heart of its soundscape—bringing rhythm, pride, and unforgettable energy to the beautiful game.
