Cobhams Asuquo has called out the Grammy Awards, questioning the institution’s relationship with Nigerian artistes following another year without a win at the 68th ceremony.
Asuquo’s response came after the February 2, 2026, awards in Los Angeles, where Nigeria’s top nominees —including Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, Davido, Wizkid, and Omah Lay — lost in their respective categories.
In the competitive ‘Best African Music Performance’ category, South Africa’s Tyla took home the award.
In a video posted to his Instagram page on Tuesday, Asuquo argued that the Grammys benefit economically from Nigeria’s vibrant music community while offering little in return.
“This Grammy issue, I think, requires some introspection. I think Grammy is using us (Nigerians) to boost the GDP of Los Angeles. When we show up, we show up and we show out,” he said.
He described the pattern of nominations without victories as “a carrot dangling in front of us,” suggesting it offers only “fleeting recognition”.
Asuquo also emphasised the need for Nigeria’s industry to cultivate its own prestige and platforms.
“We need to build something that is ours. It is only America that would do the Super Bowl, and be playing it themselves. We need to grow our own platform and allow it to become something people can converge around,” he said.
