President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian artists who won the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), describing their success as clear evidence that Nigeria’s music and creative ecosystem is growing and gaining global recognition. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian artistes who emerged winners at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), describing their success as clear proof that Nigeria’s music and creative ecosystem continue to grow and gain global respect.
The president praised the performers for representing the country proudly on a continental scale. He stated that their victories at AFRIMA demonstrate the strength, creativity, and resilience of Nigerian youths, as well as the country’s growing influence in African and global music.
Nigerian artists had a successful showing at the 9th AFRIMA, which took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from January 7 to 11, 2026, and was hosted by Lagos State, the official host city designated by the African Union Commission on April 9, 2025.
Rema won Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artist in Western Africa, and Best African R&B & Soul. Burna Boy won Album of the Year. Shallipopi won Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy. Phyno was named Best African Hip-Hop Artist, Qing Madi the Most Promising Artist, and Yemi Alade the Best Soundtrack. Chella received the African Fans’ Favourite Award, while Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye received the AFRIMA Legendary Awards.
According to President Tinubu, Nigerian artistes’ achievements at the awards ceremony reflect years of hard work, talent, and consistency, and Nigerian music has become a powerful voice for the country in Africa and beyond. He emphasised that global platforms such as AFRIMA continue to provide opportunities for African talent to shine and compete at the highest levels.
“I warmly congratulate our outstanding Nigerian artists on their outstanding performances at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards.” Your success on this great continental stage is a proud moment for our country, and it exemplifies the depth of talent, creativity, and hard work that define Nigerian music.
“You have not only won awards; you have projected our culture, amplified our youths’ voices, and strengthened Nigeria’s creative identity throughout the continent and beyond. I applaud each of you for your dedication and encourage you to continue using your talents to inspire hope, unity, and pride, while also making meaningful contributions to the growth of our creative economy and the development of our country,” he said.
President Tinubu also congratulated Lagos State, the official host city for the 9th AFRIMA, and praised the state government for organising a successful and world-class event.
“I applaud Lagos State for once again demonstrating its status as Africa’s creative and entertainment hub. I congratulate the Lagos State Government and His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on their excellent hosting of Africa’s global music awards, as well as for providing a safe, vibrant, and welcoming environment for delegates, artistes, and guests from all over the continent,” he said.
President Tinubu, who received the African Union Commission and the International Committee of AFRIMA’s Pillar of Art and Culture in Africa Award in 2015, stated that his administration will continue to prioritise youth empowerment and the development of the creative economy, noting that music, film, fashion, and other creative sectors have the potential to create jobs, boost tourism, and significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economy.
“Music continues to be one of Africa’s most powerful voices. I am still deeply committed to supporting initiatives that promote our culture and encourage our creative talents.” Our government is completely committed to empowering young Nigerians and boosting the creative economy,” the President stated.
In 2014, the International Committee of AFRIMA and the African Union Commission established Africa’s largest award platform. The 9th edition attracted over 1,216 artists, delegates, and industry stakeholders from at least 48 African countries, demonstrating the awards’ continental reach and significance.
The 9th AFRIMA in Lagos began on 7 January with a Welcome Soiree at the home of the Deputy British High Commissioner, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit at the Eko Convention Centre. The festivities continued on January 9 at the AFRIMA Music Village in Ikeja City Mall, where over 25 top artists performed for over 20,000 fans, before culminating in a sold-out grand finale at the Eko Convention Centre, where outstanding creatives were honoured with the 23.9-carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy.
