Nigerian Afrobeats star BNXN, formerly known as Buju, has sparked excitement and anticipation across the continent after hinting at a major performance in Lagos this December. However, his post has also stirred a call for greater inclusivity in his touring schedule, with fans from other African countries especially Zambia urging him to bring the music closer to them.
The conversation began after BNXN shared a brief but impactful message on Facebook:
“See you in December Lagos.”
Among the numerous reactions was a notable comment from a Zambian fan identified as Fatima Hussein Chilonga, who wrote:
“We are waiting on your African tour. Zambia should be on your list.”
Her comment struck a chord with fans across Southern Africa and has since drawn growing attention, with many echoing her sentiment in the thread and across other social media platforms. Several users expressed admiration for BNXN’s music while also highlighting that countries like Zambia are often overlooked in continental tour circuits, despite having enthusiastic and growing fan bases.
Chilonga’s message has come to symbolize a broader desire among African music lovers for their favorite stars to look beyond the usual tour stops in West Africa and South Africa. Cities like Lusaka, Maputo, and Gaborone are rarely included in major tour announcements, despite being home to vibrant music communities and dedicated listeners of Afrobeats.
“BNXN’s music plays everywhere here,” said Zambian radio host and cultural commentator Tawanda Mweemba. “From the clubs to the wedding receptions, his voice is part of the soundtrack of youth culture in Lusaka. It would mean so much to the fans if he came here.”
BNXN has steadily risen through the ranks of the Afrobeats movement, known for his soulful lyrics, unique voice, and collaborations with top Nigerian and international artists. His hit songs such as “Finesse,” “Gwagwalada,” and “Kenkele” have earned him fans across Africa, Europe, and the diaspora. Despite this, his live performance schedule has remained centered around Nigeria and select global cities.
Many fans and music industry observers believe that now is the time for artists like BNXN to expand their reach within the African continent. With the rapid growth of digital streaming platforms, more African artists than ever before are discovering that their music resonates deeply in countries they may never have toured.
Music promoter Mwansa Lungu, who has worked on regional shows across Southern Africa, said there is both a demand and a market. “Zambia is ready,” he said. “Our youth know the lyrics, they follow the artists, and they are willing to pay for live experiences. All we need is for artists to realize we are here.”
BNXN has not yet publicly responded to Chilonga’s comment, but sources close to his management suggest that additional African tour dates may still be announced in the coming weeks. Industry insiders are hopeful that cities like Lusaka will be included, especially with the growing calls for more diverse tour stops across the continent.
Chilonga’s comment has now gone beyond a fan request it has become a quiet rallying cry for inclusion in an industry that is increasingly pan-African in sound but often regional in reach.
For now, the fans in Zambia wait, hopeful that BNXN will answer the call and bring his long-awaited performance to Lusaka. If and when he does, there is little doubt that he will be met with open arms, full crowds, and a city ready to sing every lyric back to him.