The stage is set for a spectacular celebration of African music as the organisers of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) have announced the hosts for its upcoming ninth edition. Nigerian superstar Falz (Folarin Falana) and French-Senegalese media personality Liliane Maroune will helm the prestigious ceremony.
A Dynamic Hosting Duo for a Continental Showcase
This landmark event, organised by the AFRIMA International Executive Committee alongside the African Union Commission (AUC) and in partnership with the Lagos State Government, will transform Lagos, Nigeria, into West Africa's entertainment hub from January 7 to 11, 2026. The selection of Falz marks a significant moment, as he becomes only the second Nigerian to host the awards, following the legendary 2Baba who co-hosted the very first edition in 2014.
Nde Ndifonka, AFRIMA's Regional Director for Central Africa, expressed confidence in the chosen hosts. He highlighted that Falz brings "intelligence, strong ideas, and a powerful African voice that connects with both young and old audiences," while Liliane Maroune "embodies elegance, diversity, and the contemporary African woman with international influence." He concluded that together, they represent the strength and rich tapestry of African music and culture.
The Star-Studded Legacy of AFRIMA Hosts
The awards have a rich history of featuring distinguished hosts from across Africa and the diaspora. The inaugural 2014 edition was hosted by Nigeria's 2Baba and Togo's Maryse Acotie. Over the years, the stage has been graced by personalities like Kenya's DNG, South Africa's Bonang Matheba and Pearl Thusi, Senegal's Akon, and many others, with the most recent 8th edition in 2023 hosted by Ahmed Sylla, Sophy Aiida, and Pearl Thusi.
The 2026 Event Schedule and Global Excitement
The build-up to the ceremony is already electric, with global music fans actively voting online across 39 award categories. The five-day event promises a packed schedule designed to engage industry professionals and fans alike:
- Wednesday, January 7: The Welcome Soirée for guests and nominees at the British Deputy High Commission House in Lagos.
- Thursday, January 8: The Africa Music Business Summit at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites.
- Friday, January 9: The AFRIMA Music Village opens to the public at the Ikeja City Mall, Alausa.
- Saturday, January 10: The Nominees and Industry Party returns to the Eko Convention Centre.
- Sunday, January 11: The Main Awards Show will be broadcast live from the Eko Convention Centre to over 84 countries worldwide.
The combination of a globally recognised hosting duo, a vibrant host city, and a week of immersive events ensures that the 9th AFRIMA will be a landmark moment for African music on the world stage.
