Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems has ruled out any suggestion of a romantic relationship with Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, saying she does not approach relationships in that manner.

The singer addressed the speculation during an interview at the BET Awards while reflecting on Africa’s growing influence on the global music scene.

Expressing pride in the continent’s success, she said, “It’s amazing, you know, coming from Nigeria. I’m just really happy where African music is going right now. Everybody’s popping off, and everybody’s shining. So, I’m just happy to be a part of that”.

The conversation took a light-hearted turn when the interview hosts asked whether she knew Okoye.

“I wish I did, though,” she responded, prompting the hosts to jokingly ask if she had ever attempted to “shoot her shot” at the Super Eagles goalkeeper.

Tems dismissed the idea, stressing that she prefers friendship and family-like relationships.

“We don’t shoot shots here. We are friends, we friend each other, and we are family. No shots, just family, sisters and brothers,” she replied.

Tems rose to international prominence in 2020 through her collaboration with Wizkid on the hit song Essence, cementing her place among Nigeria’s biggest music stars.

She won her first Grammy Award in 2023 for her contribution to Wait For U, Future’s 2022 hit featuring Drake. She added a second Grammy at the 2025 awards after winning the Best African Performance category.

The singer also made history as the first African artist to perform at the FIFA Club World Cup final halftime show.