Fatimah Otunsanya
The Lagos State Government has hailed the family of late Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, following his posthumous recognition with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, describing the honour as a defining moment for African music and culture.
Fela made history as the first African artist to receive the prestigious award, which was presented on January 31, 2026, during the Grammy Special Merit Awards ceremony held in Los Angeles, United States.
The award was accepted on his behalf by his children, Yeni, Femi, Kunle, and Shalewa Kuti, who represented the family at the ceremony.
Reacting to the development, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, described the recognition as a landmark achievement that reflects the global influence of Fela’s music and message.
According to her, honour is not only a victory for the Kuti family but also a source of pride for Lagos State, Nigeria, and the African continent.
“This historic recognition is a powerful reminder of Lagos State’s enduring position as the cultural heartbeat of Africa and a nurturing ground for creative excellence,” Benson-Awoyinka said.
She noted that Fela’s work placed African music on the world map and continues to resonate across generations, long after his passing.
The commissioner added that the Grammy honour reinforces the state government’s commitment to preserving Fela’s legacy and strengthening the creative sector through sustained support for the arts, culture, and cultural diplomacy.
“Fela’s contribution to global music and social consciousness remains immeasurable. His music boldly confronted military dictatorship, corruption, social injustice, and the oppression of the mass , while amplifying Africa’s voice on the global stage,” she said.
She further stated that nearly three decades after his death, Fela’s music remains relevant, influential, and widely celebrated across the world.
Meanwhile, members of the Kuti family described the award as a deeply meaningful moment, noting that it symbolises a bridge between generations and reflects the growing global recognition of African music and cultural expression.
They noted that the honour affirms Fela’s lasting impact, not only as a musician but as a cultural revolutionary whose work inspired resistance, dialogue, and artistic freedom.
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, the acclaimed creator of Afrobeat, was known for blending traditional African rhythms with jazz, funk, and highlife, while using his music as a tool for political expression and social critique.
Beyond music, he emerged as one of Africa’s most fearless voices against oppression, earning global attention for his activism and uncompromising stance against injustice.
Today, his influence can be seen in the works of numerous artists across Africa and beyond, as Afrobeat continues to shape global music trends.
The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage and ensuring that the legacies of iconic figures like Fela Anikulapo-Kuti are preserved and celebrated for future generations.