Davido’s latest Grammy loss has sparked fresh conversation across Nigeria’s music scene, with influential voices weighing in on South African star Tyla’s growing dominance in the Best African Music Performance category.

Tyla clinched the award at the 2026 Grammy Awards with her hit single “Push 2 Start,” marking her second win in the category after taking the inaugural prize in 2024 for “Water.” She beat out a strong Nigerian lineup that included Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, and Omah Lay.

Moments after the announcement, social media commentator Vincent Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, shared his reaction online. While congratulating all the nominees, he admitted he had hoped Davido would finally take the award.

“I really wanted Davido to win,” Otse said. “Burna Boy and Wizkid already have Grammys. It would have balanced the Big Three conversation. The Nigerian songs were strong, but it is what it is.”

The outcome also drew a more controversial response from Nigerian socialite Pascal Okechukwu, known as Cubana Chief Priest, who suggested Davido’s continued Grammy snubs may reflect deeper industry pressures.

In an Instagram post, Cubana Chief Priest alleged that the singer was being frustrated for refusing to compromise his personal values, encouraging him to remain focused and keep releasing music.

“Keep your head up,” he wrote. “Drop another hit and keep moving.”

Despite multiple nominations over the years, Davido is yet to win a Grammy; a contrast that continues to fuel debate among fans and industry watchers over recognition, influence, and the global positioning of Afrobeats.

Since the category was introduced, the Best African Music Performance award has been won exclusively by female artists, a pattern that has further shaped discussions around representation and recognition at the Grammys.