Tinubu Hails Nigerian Artistes’ Dominance At 9th AFRIMA In Lagos

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian artistes who recorded major victories at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), describing their achievements as a testament to the sustained growth and rising global relevance of Nigeria’s music and creative industry.
The President said the outstanding performance of Nigerian artistes at the continental awards ceremony reflects the depth of talent, creativity and resilience of the nation’s youths, while also reinforcing Nigeria’s strong influence in African and global music.
Nigeria emerged as one of the biggest winners at the 9th AFRIMA, held from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos State, the official host city designated 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 secured the Album of the Year award, while Shallipopi clinched Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy. Phyno was named Best African Hip-Hop, Qing Madi won Most Promising Artiste, and Yemi Alade emerged Best Soundtrack. Chella received the African Fans’ Favourite award, while industry veterans Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye were honoured with the AFRIMA Legendary Award.
President Tinubu noted that the successes recorded by Nigerian artistes are the result of years of dedication, consistency and hard work, adding that Nigerian music has become a powerful cultural voice across Africa and beyond. He also commended AFRIMA for providing a credible global platform for African talents to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level.
“I warmly congratulate our outstanding Nigerian artistes for their remarkable achievements at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards. Your success on this continental stage is a proud moment for our nation and a clear reflection of the depth of talent, creativity and hard work that define Nigeria’s music industry,” the President said.
“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. I urge you to continue using your talents to inspire hope, unity and national pride, while contributing meaningfully to the growth of our creative economy.”

The President also congratulated Lagos State for successfully hosting the awards, praising the state government for delivering a world-class event.
“I commend Lagos State for once again affirming its status as Africa’s creative and entertainment capital. I congratulate the Lagos State Government and His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for providing a safe, vibrant and welcoming environment for artistes, delegates and guests from across the continent,” he said.
President Tinubu, a recipient of the Pillar of Art and Culture in Africa Award in 2015, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and the expansion of the creative economy. He noted that sectors such as music, film and fashion have the capacity to generate employment, boost tourism and make significant contributions to national economic growth.
“Culture is the soul of a people, and music remains one of Africa’s strongest voices. I remain fully committed to supporting initiatives that promote our culture and empower our creative talents,” the President added.
Founded in 2014 by the International Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission, AFRIMA remains Africa’s largest music awards platform. The 9th edition featured over 1,216 artistes, delegates and industry stakeholders from at least 48 African countries, underscoring its continental reach and importance.
Activities for the Lagos-hosted edition began on January 7 with a Welcome Soiree at the residence of the Deputy British High Commissioner, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit at the Eko Convention Centre. The celebrations continued at the AFRIMA Music Village, Ikeja City Mall, where more than 25 top artistes thrilled over 20,000 fans, before culminating in a sold-out grand finale at the Eko Convention Centre, where winners received the prestigious 23.9-carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy.