With Davido named a member of the prestigious Grammy Recording Academy, Nigeria music industry continues to take centre stage globally, further solidifying Afrobeats and Nigerian artistry. But Davido is not the first. Over the years, Nigerians have joined the Academy, not just as nominees, but as members and voting voices. Here are some of the creatives who have made that leap.
David “Davido” Adeleke
Davido is an Afrobeats superstar singer-songwriter and performer. He became a voting member of the academy on September 23, 2025. Meaning he can now participate in nominating and final balloting decisions for the 2026 Grammys.
2. Abiodun “Bizzle” Osikoya
Bizzle is a Nigerian record label executive, talent manager, film producer, and sound engineer. He is also a co-founder of The Plug (An entertainment and lifestyle company). He was invited in 2022 as part of the academy’s class of 2022.
3. Lekan “Laycon” Agbeleshebioba
Laycon is a rapper, a reality show winner (Big Brother). The 2020 BBN winner was also part of the Nigerians that joined the academy in 2022 (Class of 2022). Laycon who announced this feat on his twitter handle promised to use his position to advocate for the music community.
4. Praise Ugbede Adejo “Praiz”
Praiz is a R&B singer and songwriter. He was also announced in 2022 as part of the academy. Upon joining the academy, Praiz promised to use his position to amplify Nigerian music and contribute to the
5. Juwonlo Iledare “Jaywon”
Jaywon is also a Nigerian Singer, songwriter, performer and a label owner who joined the academy in July 2024 as a voting member. Jaywon joins the existing ranks of Nigerians who can vote in the Grammy process. His inclusion shows the growing momentum for more local creatives to have voice in global awards ecosystems.
