“I Was Nervous” — Tems Delivers Performance at Obama Presidential Center Opening

Nigerian singer and Grammy winner Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, performed at the opening ceremony of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, joining a lineup of global music icons at the high-profile event.

The ceremony was held on Wednesday at John Lewis Plaza on the centre’s 19-acre campus, formally dedicating the $850 million facility ahead of its public opening on June 19. Celebrations will continue through June 21 as part of a three-day programme.

Tems appeared on stage alongside international stars such as Jennifer Hudson, Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, John Legend, Christina Aguilera, Common, Bono, The Edge, Marc Anthony and The Roots, with guests giving enthusiastic responses throughout the show.

Former U.S. President Barack Obama attended with his family, including daughters Malia and Sasha Obama, who were present during the performances.

Before her performance, Tems addressed the audience in a video shared from the event, wearing a red gown.

“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.”

Following the event, Tems revealed she became nervous after mistakenly misnaming Obama’s daughters while speaking on stage.

She later reacted on social media, writing: “Lord knows I was nervous! Please forgive me!!!”

Despite the moment, the singer received strong applause at the globally televised ceremony, which also featured former U.S. Presidents Joe Biden, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, alongside other global figures.

The dedication ceremony marks the beginning of public access to the Obama Presidential Center on June 19, with additional community events scheduled until June 21.

The event also showcased Nigerian artistic representation, including a work by Nigerian-born artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby displayed at the centre.

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