Mercy Chinwo shines at UK’s Premier Gospel Awards

Mercy Chinwo, the Nigerian gospel singer, has been named the ‘Best International Artist’ at the 2023 Premier Gospel Awards in the United Kingdom. 

The musician defeated eight other gospel artistes nominated for the category during the event held at the Cadogan Hall in London.

The award celebrates excellence in gospel music as well as contributions to UK gospel music landscape.

Chinwo, who took to her Instagram page to celebrate the feat, thanked the organisers and those who voted for her.

“God is Good. Thanks for the honour @premiergospel. To everyone of you who voted, thank you God bless you all,” she wrote.

Blessed Uzochikwa, the singer’s husband, also congratulated her in a statement.

“The 2023 Best International Act Winner at the Premier Gospel Awards in the United Kingdom coming to you my beloved wife is testament to your hard work, dint of determination and unbended focus. It is a reminder that serving God pays,” he said.

Samuel Onwubiko, the Nigerian artiste better known as Limoblaze, also clinched the ‘Best Male Vocalist’ and ‘Best Song’ categories respectively for his song ‘Jireh (My Provider)’.

Other winners include Annatoria, ‘Best Female Vocalist’; Manor Collective, ‘Best Group’; The Spirituals, ‘Choir of the Year’; Tofunmi Adorna, ‘Best Newcomer’.

Triple O’s ‘Everything Left Unsaid’ snagged the ‘Best Album’ award while Guvna B’s ‘Bridgeland Road’ was named the ‘Best Video’.

Chinwo stepped into limelight after winning the second season of the Nigerian Idol. She has worked with top gospel singers including Nathaniel Bassey, Chioma Jesus, Banky W, Joe Praize, Samsong, and Moses Bliss.

The singer was in the news recently over allegation that she charges N10 million to perform in churches — a claim dismissed by Poju Oyemade, the Lagos-based pastor.