Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has apologized after mistakenly misnaming members of former United States President Barack Obama’s family during the opening ceremony of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago.
Tems was among the high-profile performers at the dedication ceremony held on Thursday at John Lewis Plaza, located within the 19-acre Obama Presidential Center campus on Chicago’s South Side.
The event marked the formal opening of the $850 million centre ahead of its public launch on June 19, with community activities and celebrations scheduled to continue through June 21.
The Nigerian star shared the stage with a star-studded lineup that included Jennifer Hudson, Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Bruce Springsteen, Christina Aguilera, Common, Marc Anthony, Bono, The Edge, The Roots, and several other renowned performers.
Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama attended the ceremony alongside their daughters, Malia and Sasha Obama. Also present were former US Presidents Joe Biden, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush.
Before her performance, Tems addressed the audience and expressed gratitude for being part of the historic occasion.
“I am so blessed and honoured to be here… this is you, everyone, here, to Mr and Mrs Obama, to Sandra, and all the family,” she said.
The comment quickly drew attention online as viewers noticed the mix-up involving the names of the Obama daughters.
Following the event, Tems took to social media to acknowledge the mistake and explain that nerves got the better of her while speaking on stage.
“Lord knows I was nervous! Please forgive me!!!” she wrote.
Despite the brief error, the singer received a warm reception from attendees and viewers worldwide, with many praising her performance and applauding her humility in publicly acknowledging the mistake.
The Obama Presidential Center officially opened to the public on June 19 and features a museum, a public library branch, community spaces, educational facilities, and civic engagement programs inspired by the legacy of the Obama administration.
The event also showcased Nigerian talent beyond music, with a portrait by Nigerian-born artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby among the artworks on display at the centre.
Tems’ participation in the globally televised ceremony further highlights the growing international recognition of Nigerian creatives across music, art, and culture.
Although her mix-up became a talking point online, many fans viewed the incident as a relatable moment, noting that speaking before world leaders and a global audience can be an intimidating experience for anyone.
