Paul Okoye, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?

According to a well-placed source, P-Square frontman Paul Okoye is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the singer's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.

UPDATE 04/05/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)

Why not Okoye for Person of the Year?

The list of nominees for Time magazine’s Person of the Year is always an eclectic mix of world leaders, pop culture icons, buzzworthy names, and human rights activists. The unexpected inclusion of the 44-year-old singer, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.

“What makes Okoye so important is the potential and influence he now has, rather than anything he has already done,” said a panelist who preferred to remain anonymous, adding that earlier this month, the singer have already been named ‘Nigerian Of The Year’ by some major Nigerian newspapers and even ‘Jos Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Jos (Paul Okoye's hometown).

Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year

A representative for the singer was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:

“Paul Okoye Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 3 May 2026

“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LovePaul”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 3 May 2026

“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Paul Okoye?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 3 May 2026

Could 2026 officially be the Year of Paul Okoye?

Still, TIME’s editors will make the final decision about who will grace the magazine’s cover as its 2026 Person of the Year.

Who do you think should be TIME’s Person of the Year for 2026?

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