The African Union (AU) and the International Executive Committee of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) have acknowledged the joint efforts of Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, sponsors, partners, and media organisations that contributed to the successful hosting of the 9th edition of the awards.
The five-day event celebrating African music took place in Lagos from January 7 to 11, 2026, uniting artists, delegates, and stakeholders from more than 48 countries in Africa, which has undeniably bolstered AFRIMA's reputation as the continent's premier music awards ceremony.
After the event, Angela Martins, the Head of Culture at the African Union Commission, remarked that the successful execution of the awards exemplifies the growing impact of African music and the robust cooperation among both public and private sectors.
"AFRIMA continues to showcase Africa's musical and cultural richness to a global audience," Martins stated. "The backing and dedication from the Lagos State Government, along with sponsors, partners, and media, ensured a seamless and unforgettable celebration of African music.
"AFRIMA has transcended being merely an awards night, evolving into a formidable platform promoting African unity and cultural expression. Through music, we narrate Africa's stories from our own perspective, revealing the profound depths of our creativity. Each edition strengthens the ties among African nations and serves as a reminder that culture is one of our most potent instruments for integration and development."
She praised Lagos for once again demonstrating its capability to host significant international events, labeling the state as a crucial hub for Africa's creative economy.
AFRIMA President and Executive Producer, Mike Dada, also voiced his gratitude towards all partners and sponsors, with particular appreciation directed towards the Lagos State Government and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
"We sincerely appreciate all our partners and sponsors who believed in the AFRIMA vision and supported us through the planning and execution of the 9th edition," said Dada. "Their backing signifies a collective confidence in the ability of African music to facilitate unity, cultural pride, and economic advancement across the continent.
"We extend our special thanks to the Lagos State Government and His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for their unwavering support, collaboration, and the conducive environment that made the 9th AFRIMA a resounding success.
"From logistics to security, not to mention the overall hospitality provided, Lagos has once more proven to be a welcoming venue for Africa's creative industry, and we are profoundly grateful for this collaboration."
Key sponsors and partners who actively supported this year's edition included First Bank of Nigeria, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), The Address Homes, Guinness Nigeria, Utilita, and Gobet247.
International cultural assistance was provided by the British High Commission and the Embassy of Sweden, both of which participated as Cultural Exchange Partners.
Additional sponsors included Glenfiddich, Jägermeister, Super Travels Limited, Pan – Atlantic Travels, Wakanow, Dorf Travels & Tours Ltd, Vaniti Lagos, Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA), and Mainland Block Party Lagos.
AFRIMA also recognized the contributions of its Official Media Partners, which featured DSTV/Multichoice, Television Continental (TVC), African Union of Broadcasters (AUB), Silverbrid Group, Kennis FM, Afro Music Pop, Hip TV, Base FM, Beat FM, Classic FM, Hot FM, Lagos Talks Inspiration FM, and Lasgidi FM.
Other media collaborators encompassed Legit.ng, Max FM, Nigeria Info, Nigezie, and The Culture Newspapers (TCN), among others. Out-of-home visibility for the event was enhanced by Motomedia, Yartview Ltd, Optimus Exposure, Plural Media, Folham Nigeria Limited, and Nimbus Media.
Dada indicated that the impressive roster of sponsors and media partners reflects a growing confidence in AFRIMA and the African music sector.
The week-long festivities of AFRIMA kicked off with a Welcome Soiree on Wednesday, January 7, at the residence of the Deputy British High Commissioner, where guests and nominees were warmly welcomed.
Subsequently, the focus transitioned to the Africa Music Business Summit at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, bringing together industry professionals to discuss the future of African music.
The excitement persisted on Friday, January 9, at the AFRIMA Music Village at Ikeja City Mall in Lagos, where over 25 top artists performed for an audience exceeding 30,000 enthusiastic fans.
The grand finale of the 9th AFRIMA occurred at the Eko Convention Centre, with attendance at capacity as thousands gathered to witness the awards night, which was broadcast to 84 countries globally.
During the vibrant ceremony, artists and creative professionals, including producers and directors who received accolades, were honored and awarded the prestigious 23.9-carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy.
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