Nigerian artists have performed at international sporting events’ half-time shows. These artists below have put Nigeria on the global map as they continue to perform on international stages.
Nigerian artist Ayra Starr broke a record on October 11, 2026, as the first African artist to headline a National Football League (NFL) Game half-time show in the US.
Though Ayra Starr is the first to perform during the NFL half time show, she is not the first Nigerian artist to perform during half-time shows at international sporting events. 
Below are the Nigerian artists who have performed at sporting half-time shows.
1. Burna Boy
The Grammy-winning Nigerian star Burna Boy performed at the National Basketball Association (NBA) All-Star Game half-time show on February 19, 2023. The Afrobeat artist delivered a great performance as he sang his hit songs, including “It’s Plenty”, “Last Last” and “Alone”.
His appearance marked a significant achievement as it brought Nigerian artists into the global spotlight. It also showed how Nigerian stars have gained international recognition. Burna Boy received payment for his performance at the NBA half-time show. He performed at Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City, USA.
Burna Boy is set to lead the halftime act at the 2026 NFL Paris Game. The NFL has confirmed that the Nigerian superstar would appear in the highly anticipated game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Stade de France.
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2. Rema
Afrobeat Star, Rema, delivered an electrifying performance at the NBA All-Star Game half-time show on February 19, 2023. He sang one of his most-streamed global hits, “Calm Down.” He also performed “Holiday.” The event took place at Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City, USA.
Rema’s appearance at the event marked a major achievement for him, his record label, Mavin Records, and Nigeria’s music industry. He is known for his versatility in music and his unique singing style.
3. Tems
One of Nigeria’s fastest-rising female artists and a Grammy winner, Tems, performed at the NBA All-Star Game half-time show on February 19, 2023. She sang songs such as “Crazy Things”, “Free Mind”, “Essence” and “Higher”, accompanied by backup dancers. The event took place at Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City, USA. As an Afrobeat and R&B artist, Tems has a unique voice and approach to music in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
On July 13, Tems performed alongside Doja Cat and J Balvin at the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup final half-time show at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
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4. Ayra Starr
On October 11, 2026, Nigerian Afrobeat artist Ayra Starr headlined an NFL International Game half-time show, becoming the first African artist to headline an NFL show. The Grammy-nominated artist took to the stage at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London during half-time in the match between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Nigerian star commanded the stage with her vocals as she performed songs such as “Heaven Baby”, “Santa”, “Hot Body” and “Dangerous”, alongside songs from her latest album, Starrgirl.
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