Tems becomes first Nigerian Oscar nominee

Temilade Openiyi, better known by his stage name Tems, a famous Nigerian musician, has been nominated for an Academy Award in the 95th annual ceremony, which will take place on March 12, 2023.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences made the announcement in their Tuesday tweet announcing the 2023 nominations.

In anticipation of the 95th Academy Awards, which will take place in Los Angeles, Tems was given a nomination for the category of Best Original Song.

Her work with Rihanna on “Lift Me Up” earned them a nomination for Best Original Song. For “Best Original Song,” the two musicians received a nomination.

Marvel’s ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ featured the song ‘Lift Me Up’ as part of an official soundtrack. Rihanna and Tems co-wrote the evocative tune, produced by Ludwig Göransson and helmed by Ryan Coogler.

This news comes less than a week after the famed American rapper Snoop Dogg sought to collaborate with the artist; therefore, it has piqued the interest of many Nigerians.