Fast-rising Afrobeats singer Awosika Olayemi Josiah, popularly known as Fido, has apologised for past comments and actions, admitting that he “messed up” while adjusting to sudden fame.

In a post shared on his X handle, the singer said stardom came into his life quickly, and he was still trying to understand himself as the spotlight grew brighter.

“There’s no easy way to write this, so I’ll just say it plainly. I messed up,” he wrote.

He acknowledged that ego, excitement, and inexperience influenced some of his decisions, adding that he said things that “should never have been said”. Those moments, he noted, do not reflect who he wants to become.

Fido apologised to fans who stream his music, defend him, and believe in his journey. He also extended the apology to the global Afrobeats community, including industry veterans and colleagues who may have felt disappointed by his words or actions.

“There are moments in life when you either double down on pride or you humble yourself and grow,” he wrote, adding that he chose to step back, listen and reflect.

The singer said he is still learning and evolving but promised that he has taken the lessons seriously. According to him, the man entering this new phase of his career is more grounded, more aware and more respectful of the platform he has been given.

He thanked those who held him accountable instead of cancelling him and expressed understanding towards those who distanced themselves.

Fido, known for his hit songs Awolowo and Joy Is Coming, rose to prominence with a sound that quickly earned him attention within Nigeria’s Afrobeats scene. Rapid success, however, also brought intense scrutiny.

His apology follows controversies that trailed him last year.

During a live video session, the singer addressed fans of fellow Afrobeats star Davido popularly known as 30BG, referring to them as “Osakpolo fc”. He said he had no issues with them but said they would eventually “come around and agree” that he was good, adding that he was not in competition with anyone.

In a later interview with Naija FM, Fido described the episode as a misunderstanding. He explained that he was not very familiar with how online conversations and fan culture operate at the time, which affected the way his remarks were interpreted

The singer was also involved in a dispute with his former label, Inner Circle Entertainment. He alleged that the label withheld 95% of a $20,000 advance payment for Awolowo, claiming he received only about N1.5 million. He further accused the label of failing to provide transparency regarding his music financial records.

Fido also stated that nobody discovered him, insisting he found his own path with God’s guidance.