Nigerian singer Tems handled a playful question about football star Maduka Okoye with her signature composure during a red carpet interview at the BET Awards.
The interviewer referenced Okoye’s status as an internet heartthrob and asked the singer about the viral goalkeeper, whose popularity soared following Nigeria’s international friendly against Portugal.
Rather than entertaining the flirtatious angle, Tems laughed off the question and emphasized a sense of unity among Nigerians, describing fellow Nigerians as family.
Her response quickly drew praise from fans on social media, with many applauding her calm demeanor and classy approach to the moment.
Okoye, the towering 6-foot-6 goalkeeper who plays for Italian side Udinese, has gained attention beyond football circles for his striking appearance and growing online presence. His social media following reportedly rose from around 300,000 followers to more than 1.3 million as fans took notice of both his performances on the pitch and his off-field appeal.
Meanwhile, Tems used the BET Awards platform to celebrate the increasing global recognition of African music. The singer highlighted the impact of African artists on the international stage, noting the continued growth and influence of the continent’s music industry.
The lighthearted exchange added another memorable moment to an evening that showcased African talent, culture, and entertainment on a global stage.
