Tyla Removes Lagos From 2026 World Tour After Backlash Over Xenophobia Debate
South African music star Tyla has quietly removed Lagos from the schedule of her A*POP World Tour 2026, following days of intense backlash from Nigerian fans over renewed reports of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa.
The updated tour schedule no longer includes the Nigerian stop that had initially been announced. However, all other performances across Europe, North America and South Africa remain on the itinerary.
Neither Tyla nor her management has issued an official statement explaining why the Lagos concert was removed, but the decision comes shortly after a wave of criticism erupted across social media.
Online Backlash Follows Tour Announcement
The announcement of Tyla’s Lagos concert sparked widespread debate, with many Nigerians arguing that it was inappropriate to host the South African singer in Nigeria while reports of xenophobic attacks in South Africa continued to dominate public discussions.
Several social media users called for a boycott of the concert, insisting that South African entertainers should not continue receiving strong support in Nigeria while Nigerians were allegedly facing hostility in parts of South Africa.
The controversy quickly gained momentum online, with thousands of comments debating whether entertainment should be separated from political and social issues.
Ayra Starr’s South Africa Experience Reignites Debate
The conversation also revived discussions surrounding Nigerian singer Ayra Starr, whose planned performances in South Africa were previously cancelled after visa complications affected members of her team.
Many Nigerians drew comparisons between the two situations, arguing that Nigerian artists have faced increasing difficulties performing in South Africa while South African musicians continue to enjoy access to Nigerian audiences.
The renewed discussion further intensified calls for Nigerian authorities to adopt a firmer stance in matters involving cultural exchanges between both countries.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Calls for Reciprocity
The issue attracted reactions from several public figures, including Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Responding to reports surrounding Ayra Starr’s visa challenges, the senator urged Nigerian authorities to adopt a reciprocal approach in dealing with South Africa. She argued that Nigeria should respond with the same level of firmness that South African authorities have been accused of showing Nigerian entertainers.
According to her, the call was aimed at protecting Nigeria’s national dignity and ensuring fair treatment for its citizens.
VeryDarkMan Opposes Tyla’s Lagos Concert
Social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, also weighed in on the controversy.
He openly opposed Tyla’s planned Lagos performance, urging Nigerians to reject the concert until stronger measures were taken to address recurring xenophobic attacks against Nigerians living in South Africa.
His comments generated mixed reactions online, with supporters backing his stance while others argued that musicians should not be held responsible for political or social issues beyond their control.
Sowore Urges Nigerians Not to Blame Tyla
Activist Omoyele Sowore offered a different perspective on the debate.
He argued that it would be unfair to hold Tyla personally responsible for the actions of others, stressing that artists should not become targets because of tensions between countries.
His remarks added another dimension to an already heated discussion, with opinions remaining divided over whether the removal of the Lagos concert was the right decision.
Lagos Show Removed as Questions Remain
Although Tyla’s team has yet to explain the removal of the Lagos date, the timing has fueled speculation that the decision may have been influenced by the growing controversy.
For now, the singer’s 2026 world tour will continue without a Nigerian stop, while discussions surrounding xenophobia, cultural exchange and the relationship between Nigeria and South Africa continue to dominate conversations across social media.
