Nigeria's vibrant music scene has once again asserted its dominance on the continental stage, with the country's top artists sweeping major honours at the prestigious 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). The event, which unfolded in Lagos from January 7 to 11, 2026, saw a spectacular showcase of talent, culminating in a grand finale where Nigerian stars took centre stage.
Presidential Praise for Cultural Ambassadors
In response to this resounding success, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extended heartfelt congratulations to the award-winning artists. Through a statement released on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commended the musicians for their remarkable achievements.
"I warmly congratulate our outstanding Nigerian artistes for their remarkable achievements at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards," President Tinubu stated. He emphasized that their victory was more than just a collection of trophies, noting, "You have not only won awards; you have projected our culture, amplified the voice of our youths and strengthened Nigeria’s creative identity across the continent and beyond."
The President framed their accomplishments as a testament to the relentless hard work and consistency within Nigeria's creative sector, which he described as a powerful voice for the nation.
Nigerian Artists Dominate the Awards List
The 9th AFRIMA ceremony was a clear demonstration of Nigerian musical prowess. The nation's artists clinched top honours across several competitive categories, solidifying their status as African powerhouses.
The key winners from Nigeria included:
- Rema, who achieved a stunning triple win: Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African RnB and Soul.
- Burna Boy, who secured the coveted Album of the Year award.
- Shallipopi, who won Song of the Year and also grabbed the Best African Collaboration award alongside Burna Boy.
- Phyno, who emerged as the Best African Hip-Hop artist.
- Qing Madi, recognised as the Most Promising Artiste.
- Yemi Alade, who won the award for Best Soundtrack.
- Chella, who was voted the African Fans’ Favourite.
- Industry veterans Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye were honoured with the prestigious AFRIMA Legendary Award.
Lagos Cemented as Africa's Creative Hub
President Tinubu also lauded Lagos State for its flawless execution as the official host city, a designation made by the African Union Commission. He described Lagos as "Africa’s creative and entertainment capital" and congratulated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the state government for providing a safe and vibrant environment for the thousands of delegates and guests.
The week-long event was a massive gathering, with participation from over 1,216 artistes, delegates, and stakeholders representing at least 48 African countries. Activities ranged from a Welcome Soiree at the Deputy British High Commissioner's residence and an Africa Music Business Summit to the AFRIMA Music Village at Ikeja City Mall, which attracted over 20,000 fans.
Looking forward, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration's commitment to nurturing the creative industry, acknowledging its vast potential for economic growth and job creation for young Nigerians. "Our government is fully committed to empowering young Nigerians and strengthening the creative economy," he assured.
The 9th AFRIMA, organised in partnership with the African Union Commission, stands as Africa's premier music awards platform, and the 2026 edition has undoubtedly reinforced Nigeria's leading role in shaping the continent's cultural and musical landscape.
