Tems Explains Why She Won’t Date Nigerian Celebrities

Tems has revealed why she avoids romantic relationships with Nigerian male celebrities, saying she sees them as family during a BET Awards interview

Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, made the remarks during an interview at the BET Awards ceremony held over the weekend in 2026, where she addressed questions about whether she would consider a romantic approach to fellow Nigerian celebrities, including Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye.

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Tems explained that while she is familiar with Okoye’s public profile, she does not view Nigerian celebrities in a romantic context, stressing that her relationship with them is strictly familial and rooted in mutual respect within the entertainment industry.

“I know who Maduka Okoye is but I don’t know him personally. I wish I did though. But shooting shots at him, we don’t do that over here,” she said.

She added that Nigerian entertainers often maintain close, brotherly and sisterly relationships rather than romantic involvement.

“We [Nigerian celebrities] friend each other and we are family. I see my male colleagues as brothers,” she said.

The singer, known for her global hit Love Me Jeje and other internationally acclaimed records, has continued to gain recognition for her candid personality and distinct approach to fame.

Her comments have sparked conversations online, with fans debating the boundaries between personal relationships and professional camaraderie within Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

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Tems’ rising global profile has made her one of Nigeria’s most influential music exports, with appearances at major international events further strengthening her reputation as a leading voice in contemporary African music.