The stage is set for a spectacular celebration of African sound as a powerful coalition of governments and corporate giants has been unveiled as sponsors for the upcoming 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). The event, themed "Unstoppable Africa," is scheduled to hold in Lagos from January 7 to 11, 2026.
A Powerful Vote of Confidence for African Music
The sponsorship lineup signals robust faith in the continent's creative economy. Leading the pack are the Lagos State Government, which will serve as the official host city, and First Bank of Nigeria. They are joined by the Government of Sweden, Guinness Nigeria, real estate firm The Address Homes, and gaming brand Gobet247.
During the announcement in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire, AFRIMA's Director of Partnerships, Ms. Edwidge Goli, framed the support as historic. "This is more than sponsorship. It is a historic show of belief in the power of African music, the brilliance of our talents and the future of our creative industries," she stated.
The awards maintain their foundational partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC) and enjoy strong backing from the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Event Schedule and Gold Sponsors
The 9th AFRIMA will kick off with the Nominees and Guests Welcomes Soirees on January 7. The following day, January 8, will feature the Africa Music Business Summit at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos.
The festivities will build up with the AFRIMA Music Village Concert and Diamond Showcase at the Ikeja City Mall on January 9. The grand finale is the awards ceremony on January 11, also at the Eko Convention Centre, with the red carpet starting at 3:30pm (WAT).
At the national gold sponsorship level, the event is headlined by digital payments platform Utilita and the gaming and entertainment brand Gobet247.
Broadcast and Continental Impact
The main awards ceremony and live performances will be beamed to a global audience in over 84 countries worldwide, amplifying Africa's musical influence. The consolidated support from sectors like finance, real estate, beverages, and international diplomacy underscores the growing recognition of African music as a major cultural and economic force.
By hosting AFRIMA once again, Lagos reinforces its position as the continent's premier hub for creativity and entertainment, ready to welcome the continent's brightest musical talents and industry stakeholders in early 2026.
