Grammy Award-winning Nigerian singer, Tems, took the stage at the grand opening ceremony of the Obama Presidential Center on Thursday, June 18, 2026. Dressed in a stunning red gown, she performed her hit single, Me & U, at John Lewis Plaza on Chicago’s South Side. Before starting, Tems shared a heartfelt message: “I’m so blessed and honored to be here. This one is to you, everyone in this room, to Mr. and Mrs. Obama, and to all the family.”

Tems was the only Nigerian act on a star-studded lineup that included Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, Bono & The Edge, Christina Aguilera, Common, Eddie Vedder, and Marc Anthony. The ceremony celebrated democracy, culture, service, and hope, and was livestreamed globally.

Shortly after the performance, she posted on her X page: “Lord knows I was nervous! Please forgive me.”

Me & U is a melancholy, moody song that reflects her desire for self-reliance and inner peace. The “U” is essentially her talking to herself. A notable line speaks to independence and healing: “Me and you, me and you, I dey for you.” The song went viral on TikTok and became one of her biggest solo hits. Performing it for the Obamas reflected the togetherness and interdependence between the couple over the years, which subsequently gave birth to the Center.

The $850 million Obama Presidential Center sits on 19.3 acres in historic Jackson Park. Beyond the museum, it houses a public library branch, a concert hall, an athletic center, and gardens. Public access starts on June 19.