Obama Honours Nigerian Afrobeat Icon Fela Kuti in New Higher Ground Podcast

Story: written by Zara October 24,2025
Former President of the United States, Barack Obama, has celebrated the legacy of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti in a newly released podcast series that explores the musician’s groundbreaking artistry and bold activism.

The tribute appears in “Fela Kuti: Fear No Man,” a production by Higher Ground, the media company founded by Barack and Michelle Obama. The episode was released on Wednesday, October 22, 2025.

In a short video shared on his Instagram account, Obama highlighted his deep admiration for Fela’s creativity and fearless social commentary. He described the late Nigerian legend as both musically exceptional and politically courageous.

According to Obama, “He is a musical genius from Nigeria, a remarkable figure in global music history who created art that I truly appreciate.”

The series focuses on influential artists who used their platforms to challenge oppression and inspire change. Fela Kuti, who passed away in 1997, earned worldwide recognition for his outspoken resistance against military rule and corruption in Nigeria, expressed through the power of Afrobeat.