The South African pop artist Tyla continues to break records and push the limits of African music. At just 23, she is now recognized for her global hit “Water,” having surpassed Nigerian stars Ayra Starr and Tems to become the most-streamed female artist in Nigeria, according to Spotify Nigeria’s recent chart update shared by @Pop_BaseNews on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.
This achievement signifies a major milestone for Tyla, establishing her as the first South African woman to hold this title in Nigeria, a country considered the center of Afrobeats and African pop culture. Her ascent on Nigeria’s streaming charts emphasizes her expanding influence not only in Africa but also internationally.
Following the release of “Water” in 2023, Tyla’s career has rapidly progressed. The song gained widespread acclaim, topping charts from Johannesburg to New York and earning her a Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance. Tyla’s distinctive blend of pop, R&B, and amapiano has helped her establish a unique sound that appeals to both African and global audiences.
Despite being relatively new to Nigeria’s competitive music environment, Tyla’s impressive streaming stats indicate her wide-ranging appeal. Her success reflects the increasingly universal nature of African music, where sound, rhythm, and storytelling know no boundaries.
The announcement did, however, elicit mixed responses online. While numerous fans celebrated her accomplishment and viewed it as a positive development for African unity, some expressed skepticism regarding her success over two of Nigeria’s top artists, Ayra Starr and Tems, both of whom boast global hits and extensive fanbases.
As Tyla continues to gain traction on streaming platforms, she shows no indication of waning. With plans for a world tour, brand collaborations, and a new album reportedly on the horizon, her position as one of Africa’s most influential female artists appears to be firmly established.
From Johannesburg to Lagos, Tyla’s journey is more than just a streaming achievement; it symbolizes the unifying power of African music and its ability to inspire a fresh wave of global artists.
Tyla is now the most streamed female act on Spotify in Nigeria.
She surpasses Tems and Ayra Starr. pic.twitter.com/t8QjUFOPHz
— Pop Base News (@Pop_BaseNews) October 29, 2025
