Tinubu Hails Nigerian Artistes as Nigeria Shines at 9th AFRIMA in Lagos
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 further proof of Nigeria’s growing influence and global recognition in music and the creative arts.
In a statement released by the State House on Sunday, the President praised the artistes for projecting Nigeria positively on the continental stage, noting that their victories highlight the creativity, resilience and talent of the country’s youths.
The 9th AFRIMA, held from January 7 to 11, 2026, took place in Lagos, the official host city designated by the African Union Commission in April 2025. Nigerian artistes dominated several key categories at the awards ceremony.
Rema emerged as one of the biggest winners, clinching Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa and Best African RnB & Soul. Burna Boy won Album of the Year, while Shallipopi secured Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration for his joint work with Burna Boy. Phyno was named Best African Hip-Hop, Qing Madi won Most Promising Artiste, and Yemi Alade received the award for Best Soundtrack. Chella was honoured with the African Fans’ Favourite award, while music executives Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye received the AFRIMA Legendary Award.
President Tinubu said the achievements of the Nigerian winners reflect years of hard work, consistency and dedication, adding that Nigerian music has become a strong cultural voice across Africa and beyond.
“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,” the President said. He added that the artistes had not only won awards but also projected Nigeria’s culture and strengthened the country’s creative identity globally.
The President also congratulated Lagos State for hosting the event and commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the state government for delivering what he described as a world-class and successful awards ceremony.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and the development of Nigeria’s creative economy, noting that sectors such as music, film and fashion have the potential to create jobs, boost tourism and contribute significantly to national economic growth.
Founded in 2014 by the International Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission, the awards platform is regarded as Africa’s biggest music celebration. The 9th edition attracted more than 1,216 artistes, delegates and industry stakeholders from at least 48 African countries.
Activities for the Lagos-hosted AFRIMA included a welcome soirée on January 7, the Africa Music Business Summit at the Eko Convention Centre, performances at the AFRIMA Music Village at Ikeja City Mall, and a sold-out grand finale where winners received the 23.9-carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy.
