Nigerian-born Afrobeats star Tems has become a part-owner of Major League Soccer (MLS) club San Diego FC, joining through her company, The Leading Vibe.

The Nigerian-born singer, songwriter, and producer from Lagos make history as the first African female to hold ownership stakes in an MLS club.

Tems, a two-time Grammy Award winner and Oscar nominee, joins other notable figures in the ownership group, including World Cup winner Juan Mata.

She expressed her excitement about joining San Diego FC, highlighting the club’s celebration of creativity, culture, and community.

“I am thrilled to join San Diego FC’s ownership group and to be part of a club that celebrates creativity, culture, and the power of community,” Tems said.

“Football has a unique way of bringing people together, and I am excited to help build something special in San Diego, a city that thrives on diversity and innovation.”

Tems joins an esteemed lineup of investors, including World Cup winner Juan Mata and entertainment mogul Issa Rae, who was also recently announced as a club partner.

Her involvement is in collaboration with Pave Investments, an African private investment firm that previously led a strategic group of investors in NBA Africa in 2021.

Tunde Folawiyo, chairman of Pave Investments, and Kwamena Afful, founding director, are also part of the San Diego FC ownership group.

According to SDFC, Tems’ role aligns with the club’s vision of uniting communities through football.

The ownership group aims to leverage its global influence to support Right to Dream Academy, a youth development initiative, and further promote football’s impact on and off the pitch.

San Diego FC CEO Tom Penn welcomed Tems, calling her an “extraordinary artist and cultural force.

“Tems is an extraordinary artist and cultural force worldwide. We are honoured to have her join our Club and bring her visionary perspective to San Diego FC.

“Her passion for empowering the next generation aligns perfectly with our mission, and her commitment to creating opportunities for young talent domestically and globally reflects the core values of Right to Dream.”

With this groundbreaking investment, Tems solidifies her status not just as a global music icon but also as a pioneering figure in sports ownership, bridging the worlds of music, culture, and football. (BusinessDay)