South African Grammy-winning star Tyla has removed Lagos, Nigeria, from the schedule of her upcoming APOP World Tour, following days of intense backlash from Nigerian fans over renewed concerns surrounding xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals in South Africa. The move comes just days after the singer unveiled the global trek, which initially included a December 22 stop in Lagos before concluding with performances in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Fans first noticed the change after Lagos disappeared from Tyla’s official tour itinerary on Thursday. As of Friday morning, the Nigerian date was no longer listed on the singer’s website or promotional schedule. Neither Tyla, her management team, nor the tour promoters have issued an official statement explaining whether the show has been cancelled, postponed, or removed for another reason.
The development follows a wave of criticism that erupted online after the tour announcement. Many Nigerians called for a boycott of the Lagos concert, arguing that the performance should not go ahead while concerns persist over the treatment of Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa. The online campaign gained momentum across social media, with several public figures and commentators urging fans not to support the event.
While Tyla has not publicly addressed the controversy, the removal of Lagos from the tour has fueled speculation that the decision was influenced by the backlash. However, in the absence of an official explanation, it remains unclear whether the date has been permanently cancelled or could be reinstated at a later time.
The controversy has sparked wider debate within the African entertainment industry about the intersection of music and politics. Some fans argue that artists should not be held responsible for political or social tensions between countries, while others believe cultural events can serve as platforms for expressing solidarity during moments of crisis.
Despite the removal of the Lagos show, Tyla’s APOP World Tour is still scheduled to continue across Europe, the United Kingdom, North America, and South Africa in support of her recently released sophomore album, APOP*. The tour remains the biggest headlining run of her career and marks another major step in her rise as one of Africa’s leading global music stars.
For now, fans are awaiting an official statement from Tyla’s camp regarding the status of the Lagos date. Until then, the removal has become one of the most talked-about moments surrounding the tour, highlighting how broader social and political issues can quickly influence major entertainment events across the continent.
