Fast-rising Nigerian Afrobeats artiste Nitaa Blonde has announced a change of stage name, reintroducing herself to the music industry as Kweme, in a move she described as a return to her cultural identity.
The singer, born Anita Osikweme Osikhena, revealed the new name via Instagram, stating that “Kweme”—drawn from her native language—signifies a deepened commitment to her roots and a desire to explore culture more intentionally through her music. “It was pertinent for me to go by a name that shows my connection to my roots,” she said.
Kweme rose to prominence in 2024 following the release of her two-part EP, Godzilla/Master, a project she described as “about empowerment and owning your strength.” The EP, which blended Afrobeats, hip-hop, dancehall, and pop, established her as a promising force in Nigeria’s Afro-fusion scene, with notable tracks including Toxic and Like This.
She recently hinted at a new project in the works, sharing a rebranding video on Instagram. “I’m really proud of how far I’ve come,” she wrote. “Sharing the stage with someone like Davido is a dream come true, and I’m just getting started.”
Before delving fully into music, Kweme had a successful stint in the pageant world. She was the 3rd runner-up at the 43rd edition of Miss Nigeria and is also known for her advocacy work. Through her initiative Guard Her, she has championed girl-child education and women’s empowerment. “It’s a cause that’s close to my heart,” she said. “I want to inspire young girls to believe in themselves and reach their full potential.”
Kweme also has acting credits to her name, having featured in the Nollywood film The Island. She further extended her international presence as a model host at the 2019 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), demonstrating a career that straddles music, activism, and film.
Reflecting on her recent single Godzilla, she said: “It’s a bold track that pushes boundaries—just like me. I’m not afraid to take risks, whether in music or life.”
As she enters this new phase of her career under the moniker Kweme, the artist is expected to continue building on her multifaceted path across music, advocacy, and entertainment.
