- Nigerian singer Rema has praised veteran Afrobeat singer D’banj for his contributions to the global recognition of the genre, particularly in the UK.
- D’banj’s 2012 hit song ‘Oliver Twist’ became the first Nigerian song to reach the top 10 on the UK chart, paving the way for other Afrobeats songs.
Award-winning Nigerian singer Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, has publicly expressed his gratitude to veteran Afrobeats star D’banj for his crucial role in popularizing the genre internationally, especially in the United Kingdom.
During his sold-out concert at London’s iconic O2 Arena on June 8, 2025, Rema took a moment to acknowledge D’banj’s groundbreaking success with his 2012 hit single, “Oliver Twist.” The song was the first Nigerian track to break into the UK Official Chart’s top 10, marking a milestone that opened doors for many Afrobeats artists that followed.
Addressing D’banj directly, Rema praised both him and legendary music executive Don Jazzy for their pioneering work in introducing Afrobeats to the UK market.
He said, “First of all, I want to appreciate you for opening the doors. We [the new generational artists] do not do it alone.
“You were one of the first ones to bring Afrobeats to the UK. You and Don Jazzy held it down. Y’all open that door.
“I appreciate you for life. I love you from the bottom of my heart. If you never existed, I would have never existed.”
This heartfelt tribute underscores the respect and recognition the new generation of Nigerian artists have for the pioneers who paved the way for Afrobeats’ global rise.
