Nigerian music star Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, has earned a spot on TIME’s prestigious TIME100 Next list, as one of the most influential emerging leaders shaping the future of global culture.
The TIME100 Next recognizes 100 rising figures across the world whose work is redefining leadership and impact for a new generation. The 2025 issue features three international covers spotlighting singer-songwriter Tate McRae, actor Jonathan Bailey, and Spring Health co-founder April Koh, while also celebrating standout names including Rema, Elon Musk, Donald Trump, and others making waves in their fields.
TIME’s CEO, Jessica Sibley, emphasized the importance of this year’s honorees, saying the list highlights changemakers who are “redefining what progress, influence, and impact mean in today’s world.”
Celebrated Beninese singer and Grammy winner Angélique Kidjo praised Rema in her tribute, recalling how his global smash Calm Down inspired her to include it in her African Symphony project alongside works from legends like Fela Kuti, Miriam Makeba, and Youssou N’Dour. She described the record as “rooted in Africa but also catchy and virtuosic,” adding that Rema represents the international success of Afrobeats.
Since breaking out, Rema has achieved historic milestones with Calm Down, which has surpassed two billion streams globally, earned Grammy recognition, taken him to stadium stages worldwide and now earned him a spot on TIME100 Next list. His influence has helped push Afrobeats to the forefront of global music culture, solidifying his status as one of Africa’s brightest stars.
Rema is recognised on the 2025 TIME100 NEXT List 🤩
He’s the ONLY African artist to appear on the list 🦇 pic.twitter.com/Hy033uD1eR
— NOTJUSTOK (@NOTJUSTOK) September 30, 2025
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