Tems, Davido, And Wizkid Ignite Afrobeats Global Tour Boom

Nigerian artistes are making a bold push onto the global music scene this year, performing at major festival stages across Africa and selling out iconic venues worldwide. According to industry observers, this surge in international touring highlights a defining moment for Afrobeats on the world stage.

Leading the charge is Temilade ‘Tems’ Openiyi, who is set to co-headline the opening night of the All Points East festival alongside British singer Jorja Smith. Scheduled for August 21 at Victoria Park, the event places Afrobeats and R&B at the heart of one of the UK’s premier summer festivals. Curated by Smith and her label, FAMM, the lineup also includes rising Nigerian star Ayra Starr, reflecting the genre’s expanding global appeal. Tems’ performance further cements her meteoric international rise, driven by her debut album Born in the Wild and her Grammy-winning hit Love Me Jeje.

Before Tems takes the stage, Davido will headline the ‘Davido & Friends’ concert at London’s Crystal Palace Bowl on August 14. The venue, famed for hosting global icons such as Bob Marley and Pink Floyd, will mark Davido’s return to the UK following his headline show at the O2 Arena two years ago.

Meanwhile, Wizkid, head of Starboy Entertainment, is preparing to headline Afro Nation from July 3 to 5 in Portugal at Praia da Rocha, Portimão. The festival will feature international acts including Gunna, Asake, and Tyla, further highlighting Afrobeats’ expanding reach.

Emerging Nigerian voices are also extending their international footprint. Pop artist Folarin Odunlami, known professionally as Fola, is gearing up for his first Canadian tour in July, titled Catharsis Live Tour, with performances in London, Birmingham, and Dublin. His management noted that the tour aims to introduce Fola’s sound to a wider North American audience.

Street-pop sensation Zlatan is planning a multi-city UK tour between June and July, spanning London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, and Dublin. Branded Zlatan Live in Concert, the tour will feature a live band and aims to deepen his connection with diaspora audiences.

Additionally, Afrobeats producer and performer Young Jonn is set to headline at OVO Arena Wembley on September 25, 2026, underscoring the genre’s continued momentum on the global stage.