Nigerian artistes excel at 9th AFRIMA Awards, winning top honours; President Tinubu praises their impact on culture and youth empowerment

Nigerian artistes dominated the 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), held in Lagos from 7 to 11 January 2026, highlighting the vibrancy of the country’s youth-driven music scene.

Also read: AFRIMA 2025 Breaks Record with 10,717 Submissions

Rema emerged as a major winner, claiming Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African RnB & Soul. Burna Boy won Album of the Year, while Shallipopi took Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy.

Phyno earned Best African Hip-Hop, Qing Madi was named Most Promising Artiste, Yemi Alade won Best Soundtrack, Chella received African Fans’ Favourite, and radio veterans Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye were honoured with the AFRIMA Legendary Award.

In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated the winners for elevating Nigeria’s cultural voice.

“Your success on this great continental stage is a proud moment for our nation and a strong reflection of the depth of talent, creativity and hard work that define Nigeria’s music industry,” he said.

The President praised the artistes for amplifying youth voices and strengthening Nigeria’s creative identity across Africa and beyond. He encouraged them to continue using their talents to inspire hope, unity, and national pride, while contributing to the growth of the creative economy.

Tinubu also commended Lagos State, the official host designated by the African Union Commission, for staging a world-class event.

“I congratulate the Lagos State Government and His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for providing a safe, vibrant and welcoming environment for delegates, artistes and guests from across the continent,” he added.

A 2015 recipient of AFRIMA’s Pillar of Art and Culture in Africa Award, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and the growth of Nigeria’s creative sector.

“Culture is the soul of a people, and music remains one of Africa’s strongest voices. Our government is fully committed to empowering young Nigerians and strengthening the creative economy,” he declared.

Founded in 2014 by the International Committee of AFRIMA and the African Union, the awards drew more than 1,216 participants from 48 countries.

Also read: Davido Sparks Buzz With Bold Super Eagles AFCON Bet

Highlights included a welcome soiree, the Africa Music Business Summit, performances by 25 top artistes for 20,000 fans at Ikeja City Mall, and a sold-out finale at the Eko Convention Centre, where winners received 23.9-carat gold-plated trophies.