Late Nigerian music icon Fela Anikulapo-Kuti is set to receive another major international honour after being selected for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 2026 Early Influence category.

Fela is among five musicians chosen for the category, alongside American rapper Queen Latifah, Cuban singer Celia Cruz, rapper MC Lyte and American singer-songwriter Gram Parsons.

The induction ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, November 14, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, United States, bringing together musicians, entertainment industry figures and other notable personalities.

Other artistes selected for the 2026 Performer category include British-Nigerian singer Sade Adu’s group, Sade, Oasis, Billy Idol, Wu-Tang Clan, Phil Collins, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order and the late Luther Vandross.

The Cleveland-based Rock and Roll Hall of Fame selected the inductees through a voting process involving more than 1,000 musicians, historians and music industry professionals.

Despite the significance of the occasion, several inductees are expected to miss the ceremony due to personal commitments, touring schedules and other circumstances.

Sade has confirmed that its members will not attend, although the group expressed appreciation for the recognition in a statement published on its website.

“Sorry we can’t be there in person to celebrate with the other artists. Please know that our absence takes nothing away from how much this recognition means to us,” the statement read.

Oasis brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher have also indicated that they will be absent. Noel is expected to perform in London, while Liam previously criticised the institution and later told a fan on X that travelling to Los Angeles for the ceremony was too much trouble.

Heavy metal band Iron Maiden will equally miss the event because of its ongoing tour in Australia.

Phil Collins, known for hit songs including In the Air Tonight and Sussudio, is also expected to be absent due to health challenges that have affected his ability to perform.

The joint induction of Joy Division and New Order is expected to be one of the notable moments of the ceremony.

New Order emerged following the death of Joy Division's lead singer, Ian Curtis, in 1980. The group subsequently established itself as a major force in alternative dance music, producing popular songs such as Blue Monday, True Faith and Bizarre Love Triangle.

However, it remains unclear which members of the two groups will attend the ceremony or whether New Order will perform.

American hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan could also use the occasion as an opportunity for a reunion following the conclusion of a tour the group described as its last, although its members do not always appear together at public events.

Meanwhile, British singer Billy Idol is widely expected to attend the ceremony. In recognition of his contributions to music, Los Angeles declared Friday, November 13, as Billy Idol Day.

Idol rose to prominence through the British punk music scene before establishing a successful solo career with songs including Dancing With Myself. Reacting to his induction, he described the recognition as “a tremendous honour."

According to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's eligibility requirements, artistes must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years before becoming eligible for nomination.

Fela's selection in the Early Influence category recognises his enduring contribution to global music and the development of sounds that have inspired generations of artistes across the world.

The Nigerian legend, widely celebrated as the pioneer of Afrobeat, continues to receive international recognition for his musical innovation and lasting cultural influence.