Dubai-based Nigerian musician Kolade Segun Adekunle has won Lead Guitarist/Music Director of the Year (Diaspora) at the 2026 Golden Stars Awards, honouring his contributions to Nigerian music from abroad.
Adekunle received the award during the sixth edition of the ceremony, held on Saturday at Watercress Hotels & Events in Allen, Ikeja, Lagos.
The Osun State-born guitarist and music director could not attend in person due to professional commitments in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where he is based.
Organisers said his award plaque and certificate would be delivered to him in the UAE.
Reacting to the honour, Adekunle described it as humbling, saying it reflected years of dedication to music ministry and professional excellence.
“This recognition means a great deal to me. Music has always been my calling, and to be honoured specifically for my work in lead guitar and music direction is deeply humbling. I dedicate this to every musician who continues to serve with excellence from wherever they are in the world,” he said.
From Osun State to Dubai’s Music Scene
Adekunle began his music career in Osun State before co-founding the Ona Iye Baptist Association Music Workshop in Ibadan, an annual training programme that has equipped musicians serving churches and cultural institutions across Nigeria.
He now serves as Music Director at Winners Chapel International in Dubai, where he leads a professional orchestra during weekly worship services broadcast across the UAE, Africa and Europe.
In June 2025, he performed as Principal Lead Guitarist at the Dubai Youth Conference organised by Renewed Step Ministries, an event organisers said drew more than 12,000 live viewers.
A Career Built on Production, Mentorship and Advocacy
Beyond live performances, Adekunle served as Executive Producer of the 2024 album OluwaTumisile, overseeing its production, budgeting, recording and post-production.
He also administers the Nigerian Guitarist Community, an online network of more than 38,000 guitarists across Nigeria and the diaspora, and founded the Monthly Studio Hangout in Dubai to encourage collaboration among musicians.
Earlier this year, he received an Award of Honour and Appreciation from the Rekindle Worship Experience in Dubai for his work in music production and artistic leadership.
He also authored The Shadow Season, a professional development book for creative professionals published in 2026 through international digital platforms.
A graduate of Trinity College London in Acoustic Guitar with a Diploma in Music Theory and Practical, Adekunle is a registered member of the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN).
The Golden Stars Awards recognise outstanding achievement in Nigeria’s arts and entertainment industry, with this year’s edition honouring professionals across music, film, media and the creative arts.
 at the 2026 Golden Stars Awards.){kind=link}