Posted by Samuel on Thu 15th Jan, 2026 - tori.ng
The city was designated the official host of the 9th AFRIMA by the African Union Commission on April 9, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian artists who won at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), describing their achievements as a testament to the ongoing growth and global recognition of Nigeria’s creative industry.
In a statement released by the State House, the President praised the artistes for making the country proud on a continental stage, noting that their achievements reflect the creativity, resilience and talent of Nigerian youths, as well as the country’s growing influence in African and global music.
Nigeria recorded a strong showing at the awards, which held from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos.
The city was designated the official host of the 9th AFRIMA by the African Union Commission on April 9, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
At the ceremony, Rema won Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African RnB & Soul.
Burna Boy clinched Album of the Year, while Shallipopi won Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy.
Phyno was named Best African Hip-Hop, Qing Madi emerged Most Promising Artiste, and Yemi Alade won Best Soundtrack.
Chella received the African Fans’ Favourite award, while Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye were honoured with the AFRIMA Legendary Award.
President Tinubu said the awards were a reflection of years of hard work and consistency by Nigerian artistes, adding that Nigerian music has become a powerful voice for the country across Africa and beyond.
He noted that platforms such as AFRIMA continue to create opportunities for African talents to compete and shine at the highest level.
He also congratulated Lagos State for successfully hosting the event, commending the state government and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for delivering a world-class and secure ceremony that welcomed delegates and artistes from across the continent.
The President further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and the development of the creative economy, stressing that sectors such as music, film and fashion have the potential to create jobs, boost tourism and contribute significantly to national growth.
Tinubu, who was honoured in 2015 with the Pillar of Art and Culture in Africa Award by the African Union Commission and AFRIMA, said his government remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote Nigerian culture and empower creative talents nationwide.