Nigerian Grammy-winning singer Tems has dismissed romantic rumors linking her to Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye.
The denial came during a red carpet interview at the 2026 BET Awards.
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When asked by hosts if she would consider making a romantic move toward Okoye, Tems clarified that she does not know him personally.
"Do I know him personally? No, I think I do; I wish I did," she said.
The artist explained that she sees her male colleagues in the Nigerian entertainment and sports industry as family.
"We befriend each other, and we are family, so no shots," Tems stated, adding that she views them as brothers.
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The rumors gained traction after viral online coverage of Okoye's pre-match footage and public image attracted attention beyond sports fans.
During the interview, Tems also reflected on the global rise of African music. "It's amazing, coming from Nigeria.
I'm just really happy where African music is going right now. Everybody's popping off, and everybody's shining," she said.
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Tems performed her track "What You Need" at the ceremony and held three nominations: Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, the BET Her Award, and the Viewers' Choice Award.
