Posted by Chinenye on Fri 19th Jun, 2026 - tori.ng
A major international appearance by a Grammy winning Nigerian artist took an emotional turn after a small on stage mistake drew attention during a high profile ceremony in Chicago.
(singer Temilade Openiyi. Photo by eelive)
Grammy Award-winning singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has opened up about how nervous she felt while performing at the official dedication of the Obama Presidential Centre in Chicago on Wednesday.
The singer revealed on social media that nerves got the better of her after she mistakenly addressed former U.S. President Barack Obama's daughter by the wrong name while speaking to the crowd.
Wearing a red gown, Tems told the audience before her performance that she felt blessed and honoured to be present, dedicating her set to everyone there, including Mr and Mrs Obama, Sandra, and the rest of the family.
She later took to social media to apologise, admitting that nerves had clearly gotten to her and asking for forgiveness.
The ceremony was held at John Lewis Plaza on the centre's 19-acre campus, formally unveiling the $850 million facility ahead of its public opening on June 19.
Tems performed alongside an international lineup that featured Jennifer Hudson, Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, John Legend, Christina Aguilera, Common, Bono, The Edge, Marc Anthony, and The Roots.
The three-day event began with the dedication ceremony on June 18, followed by public access and community-focused activities running through to June 21.
The Obama Presidential Centre also features a portrait by Nigerian-born artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby, reflecting Nigerian representation at the site.