Africa’s Music Awards Launch in Lagos

The Lagos State Government has welcomed participants from across Africa and the global music community for the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). The event is scheduled to take place from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria.

The celebration of African music began Wednesday with a Welcome Soiree hosted by the British High Commission in Nigeria.

Event Schedule

The five-day event includes several key components. The Africa Music Business Summit is planned for Thursday, January 8. The AFRIMA Music Village will feature performances by over 25 artists and DJs from across the continent on Friday, January 9, at Ikeja City Mall. The Main Awards Ceremony will be held on Sunday, January 11 at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos. The awards ceremony will be broadcast live to audiences in more than 84 countries.

Lagos State’s Role

Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, representing the state government as the official host city, described AFRIMA as a celebration of creativity and the unifying power of music. She emphasized Lagos’s honor in hosting the event, highlighting its potential to connect continents and shape narratives. Benson-Awoyinka noted the growing importance of music and culture as tools for economic growth and global connection.

AFRIMA’s Mission

AFRIMA President and Executive Producer, Mike Dada, stated that AFRIMA, in partnership with the African Union Commission, is the longest-running African music platform dedicated to promoting African talent globally. He noted that the previous edition was held in Dakar, Senegal, and that Lagos was selected as the host city for the 9th edition following deliberations by the African Union. Dada explained that AFRIMA aims to showcase African excellence, promote peace and integration, and engage young people.

Promoting African Destinations

Dada also highlighted AFRIMA’s role in promoting African cities and tourism, aiming to increase global awareness of African destinations. The event is broadcast to over 84 countries.

Community Access

The Lagos State Government has received approximately 6,000 tickets from AFRIMA, distributed through the Ministry to local governments and LCDAs. This initiative aims to provide free access to the AFRIMA Music Village for young people who may not otherwise be able to attend.

Importance of Awards Platforms

AFRIMA Associate Producer, Olisa Adibua, emphasized the importance of awards platforms for the growth of the music industry, stating that they provide infrastructure and systems that reward excellence, contributing to the future of the industry in Africa.