Nigerian singer FOLA has reached a major career milestone after his latest collaboration with Afropop star Ayra Starr, "Treat U Right," debuted at No. 1 on the Spotify Nigeria Top Songs chart, becoming one of the country's biggest new releases of 2026.
Released on July 2, 2026, the song made an immediate impact, recording 342,140 streams on its opening day in Nigeria. The impressive debut not only handed FOLA his first Spotify Nigeria No. 1, but also made Ayra Starr the first female artist to top the platform's Nigerian chart in 2026.
The achievement marks another significant moment in the careers of both artists. While FOLA continues to establish himself as one of Afrobeats' most promising voices, Ayra Starr once again demonstrates why she remains one of the genre's most commercially successful stars.
A Collaboration Fans Had Been Waiting For
Long before "Treat U Right" was released, fans had already connected the two artists creatively.
FOLA previously contributed background vocals to Ayra Starr's single "Tornado," prompting speculation that a full collaboration could eventually happen. Those expectations were finally met when the pair unveiled "Treat U Right," the lead single from FOLA's forthcoming sophomore album.
Produced by Shallythechampion, the record blends mellow Afrobeats production with R&B and soul influences, allowing both artists to showcase their distinct vocal styles. FOLA's rich, emotive delivery complements Ayra Starr's smooth melodies, creating a chemistry that has quickly resonated with listeners.
Lyrically, the song explores vulnerability in relationships, with both singers expressing a desire for genuine love and asking to be treated right. The emotional honesty, paired with its laid-back production, has helped the song stand out among recent Afrobeats releases.
A Fast Start Across Streaming Platforms
The momentum behind "Treat U Right" was evident almost immediately after its release.
Beyond debuting at No. 1 on Spotify Nigeria, the song also gained strong traction across major digital streaming platforms, including Audiomack, where it quickly became a fan favourite. The release of the official music video shortly afterward further amplified interest, driving conversations across social media and music communities.
For FOLA, the success represents a defining moment in his career. Securing a No. 1 song alongside one of Nigeria's biggest stars places him firmly among the country's fast-rising artists and could serve as a major springboard for his upcoming album.
For Ayra Starr, the achievement adds another milestone to an already impressive run. Becoming the first female artist to reach No. 1 on Spotify Nigeria in 2026 reinforces her consistency as one of the leading voices in Afrobeats and highlights her continued commercial appeal.
Another Win for Afrobeats Collaborations
The success of "Treat U Right" also reflects a broader trend within Nigerian music, where collaborations continue to produce some of the year's biggest records. By bringing together complementary styles rather than competing for the spotlight, FOLA and Ayra Starr have delivered a song that feels both fresh and familiar.
With strong opening-day streaming numbers, chart success, and growing fan support, "Treat U Right" has all the ingredients to remain one of the standout Afrobeats releases of the year.
For FOLA, it is a breakthrough moment. For Ayra Starr, it is yet another reminder that her influence on Nigeria's music charts remains stronger than ever.
