Former United States President Barack Obama has once again spotlighted Afrobeats on the global stage with the release of his 2025 playlist of favourite songs, featuring three Nigerian artistes.

Obama shared the much-anticipated list on his social media pages on Thursday evening, continuing a tradition he started during his time in the White House. According to him, the annual playlist is designed to introduce fans to fresh and exciting music from across the world.

“As 2025 comes to a close, I’m continuing a tradition that I started during my time in the White House: sharing my annual lists of favourite books, movies, and music,” Obama wrote.

The 30-track playlist spans pop, hip-hop, indie, and world music, but it was the presence of Nigerian acts that drew attention back home, even as some major Afrobeats names were notably absent.

Grammy-winning star Burna Boy made the list with "TaTaTa", his collaboration with American rapper Travis Scott. The song, released in May 2025, blends Afro-fusion with trap elements and appears as the fourth single from Burna Boy’s eighth studio album, "No Sign of Weakness".

Also earning a spot is "99" by rap heavyweight Olamide. The star-studded track features Asake, Seyi Vibez, Young Jonn, and British singer Daecolm, and was released in June 2025 as part of Olamide’s eleventh studio album, "Olamidé".

London-based Nigerian singer Obongjayar, born Steven Umoh, completes the trio with his song "Not In Surrender", further reinforcing Nigeria’s growing influence on the global music scene.

This is not the first time Obama has celebrated Nigerian talent. His 2024 playlist featured Rema’s "Yayo" and Asake’s Travis Scott-assisted track, "Active", highlighting his continued appreciation for Afrobeats.

See his post below

As 2025 comes to a close, I'm continuing a tradition that I started during my time in the White House: sharing my annual lists of favorite books, movies, and music. I hope you find something new to enjoy—and please send any recommendations for me to check out! pic.twitter.com/T9LFt5fnKG

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 18, 2025