South African singer Tyla has called for greater unity across Africa after facing criticism over her perceived silence on xenophobic attacks involving Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.
The Grammy-winning artiste made the remarks while accepting an award at the 2026 South African Music Awards. Speaking about her identity, Tyla said she was proud of her South African roots but equally regarded herself as African first.
“I am just so happy to be South African. I’m happy to be African most of all. I pray one day to see a unified Africa. It’s so important,” she said.
Her comments come after weeks of criticism from sections of the Nigerian public. The backlash intensified after Tyla’s planned Lagos concert became embroiled in debate over xenophobic attacks and tensions between Nigerians and South Africans.
Some Nigerian personalities and social media users had called for a boycott of the concert, arguing that Tyla should use her international platform to condemn attacks against African migrants in South Africa. The Lagos date was subsequently removed from her tour itinerary, although Tyla and her management did not publicly give a reason for the change.
Tyla did not directly mention the Lagos controversy or respond specifically to the criticism during her acceptance speech. Instead, her message focused on the importance of African solidarity and her hope for closer ties between countries on the continent.
The development is significant because Nigeria and South Africa have experienced periodic tensions over xenophobia, immigration and the treatment of African migrants. These issues have sometimes extended beyond politics and affected cultural and entertainment relationships between citizens of both countries.
Tyla has emerged as one of South Africa’s leading international music exports following the global success of her hit song “Water.” Her growing profile has made her an influential figure in conversations about African music and culture.
Her latest remarks may therefore be viewed as an appeal for continental unity, even as questions surrounding the xenophobia controversy and the cancelled Lagos appearance remain part of the wider public debate.
