Ayotee sets out on Afrobeats’ biggest stage

By Damiete Braide

The Nigerian music industry is bracing for a fresh wave of competition as Ayomide Toluhi, better known as Ayotee, makes a daring entrance into the Afrobeats scene. Signed recently to WalzNation, the Lagos-born singer is openly challenging some of the genre’s leading women, declaring her readiness to compete at the highest level.

In an industry where female powerhouses like Tiwa Savage, Tems, Teni, Niniola, and Ayra Starr dominate the charts and global stages, Ayotee believes there is room for one more queen and she is ready to claim the spot.

“I love Tiwa, Tems, Teni, Niniola, and Ayra Starr, but I’m not here to stay behind anyone. I can compete with them fully,” Ayotee said confidently during her unveiling.

The young star’s confidence is not without substance. Her debut single, Back It Up, is set for release in October 2025, with WalzNation positioning it as a game-changing anthem. Ayotee herself has gone further, boldly stating that the track will serve as the official soundtrack for the festive “Detty December” season.

To cement her ambition, the fast-rising act is looking beyond Nigeria’s borders. Plans are already in motion for her first international outing, with a UK tour scheduled to kick off in October. This move signals her intent to capture not just local fans but also tap into Afrobeats’ growing global audience.

Born and raised in Ipaja, Lagos, Ayotee represents the new generation of Nigerian talent breaking through with grit, determination, and unshakable self-belief. Industry watchers say her energy, coupled with the backing of WalzNation, could fast-track her rise in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Her unveiling has already sparked conversations among fans and industry insiders, many of whom are curious to see if she can back her bold claims with lasting hits. With Tiwa Savage cemented as a veteran, Tems making waves on the global stage, Teni known for her originality, Niniola hailed as the “Queen of Afro-House,” and Ayra Starr leading Gen-Z’s Afropop sound, Ayotee faces formidable competition.

Still, she remains undeterred. For her, this is the beginning of a journey she believes will end with her name etched among Afrobeats’ leading ladies.

If her upcoming single and UK tour deliver as promised, Ayotee might just prove that a new contender has arrived to shake up the throne.