The 2026 edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) has crowned Nigerian music star Rema as its biggest winner, following a glittering ceremony held in Lagos.
The 24-year-old ‘Calm Down’ crooner carted away three major awards at the prestigious event, further cementing his status as one of Africa’s leading music exports.
Rema won Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, Artiste of the Year, and Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African R&B/Soul for his global hit song, Calm Down.
In clinching the highly coveted Best Male Artiste in Western Africa and Artiste of the Year awards, the Mavin Records star edged out top Nigerian heavyweights including Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid and Asake.
While receiving his awards, Rema expressed gratitude to his fans and the award organisers, describing the moment as special.
He said the unwavering support from fans across Africa and beyond “means everything” to him and has continued to inspire his musical journey.
Despite Rema’s dominance, other Nigerian artists also made their mark on the night.
Grammy Award-winning singer Burna Boy clinched the Album of the Year award, reaffirming his influence on the continent’s music scene.
Singer Yemi Alade also won Best Soundtrack in a Movie, Series or Documentary for her song You Are, featured in Iyanu: The Animated Series.
Fast-rising star Shallipopi emerged as one of the night’s surprises, as his hit track Laho won Best Song of the Year and Best Collaboration awards.
Other winners included Tanzanian singer Jux, who won Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa, and Congolese singer Cindy Le Coeur, who also picked up an award for the Democratic Republic of Congo category.
It was reported that the awards ceremony was held at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, with electrifying performances from notable artistes across Africa.
Lagos hosted the event for the third time, after previous editions were held in Ghana and Senegal, further reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a major hub for African music and entertainment.
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