The Lagos State Government has commenced hosting the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), a major event designed to promote the growth of the music ecosystem in Nigeria and across Africa. The week-long celebration, which began on January 7, is being held across various locations in Lagos and will end on January 11.
Activities lined up for the 2026 edition include the AFRIMA Music Business Summit on Thursday, the AFRIMA Music Village concert at Ikeja City Mall, and the grand award ceremony scheduled for Sunday at the prestigious Eko Hotels and Suites.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, to flag off the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, reaffirmed the commitment of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration to supporting the creative industry by strengthening its ecosystem.
Benson-Awoyinka noted that Lagos remains Africa’s cultural and creative capital, stressing that the state government will continue to encourage cross-cultural collaboration and position music and culture as important drivers of social and economic development.
Speaking on the significance of AFRIMA and the state’s role as host, she said Lagos is proud to back initiatives that elevate African talent and showcase culture as a tool for development. She described the awards as one of the most influential platforms for recognising musical excellence across the continent.
She said, “On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, I wish to acknowledge and appreciate our strategic partners, particularly the British High Commission, for their sustained collaboration and commitment to cultural exchange and creative diplomacy. This type of partnership reinforces our shared vision of using arts and culture as tools for international engagement, innovation, and economic growth.”
The Commissioner added that this edition of AFRIMA will bring together artists, producers, industry leaders, policymakers, and creative entrepreneurs from across Africa and beyond. According to her, the event will highlight the growing relevance of the creative sector as a key contributor to employment, tourism, youth empowerment, and global visibility for Africa.
“I want to use this medium to congratulate all the nominees and participants for this award. Your creativity, discipline, and impact continue to showcase Africa’s strength, diversity, and global competitiveness in the creative space. AFRIMA remains a platform that not only celebrates excellence but also amplifies African voices and stories to the world,” Benson-Awoyinka stated.
She further emphasized that Lagos State remains firmly positioned as Africa’s cultural and creative capital. She said the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture is focused on building an environment that supports creativity, encourages investment, and strengthens Lagos as a leading hub for arts, entertainment, and cultural tourism.
“As the programme of events unfolds, we look forward to constructive media engagement, positive coverage, and continued collaboration with stakeholders to ensure a successful and impactful AFRIMA 2026,” she added.
Also speaking, the President and Executive Producer of AFRIMA, Mr Mike Dada, said Lagos was selected as host city after thorough deliberations by the African Union and other key stakeholders. He explained that the choice reflected Lagos’ capacity, strong infrastructure, and cultural influence within the continent.
Dada highlighted that AFRIMA, in partnership with the African Union, supports key developmental frameworks such as Agenda 2063, which focuses on promoting Africa’s cultural heritage and integration. He added that beyond honouring musical achievements, the awards were created to serve as a platform for peace-building, unity, and youth empowerment across the continent.
The co-producer of AFRIMA, Mr Olisa Adibua, also commended the Lagos State Government for its consistent and practical support for the creative economy. “From the beginning, Lagos State understood what we are trying to do. They don’t just talk about supporting the creative economy; they actually do it,” he said.
Adibua encouraged residents and visitors to participate fully in the week-long celebration, noting that AFRIMA would play a major role in boosting tourism and stimulating the local economy. He announced that about 6,000 free tickets would be distributed by the Lagos State Government to allow young people to attend the AFRIMA Music Village concert.
According to the organisers, over 16 performing artists, 277 crew members, and 130 key stakeholders from across the continent are participating in this year’s event, which will climax with the awards ceremony on Sunday at Eko Hotels and Suites on Lagos Island.
