President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to Nigerian musicians for their outstanding performance at the 9th All Africa Music Awards, which recently concluded in Lagos. The President described their collective success as undeniable evidence of the thriving and globally respected Nigerian creative industry.
Nigerian Dominance at Continental Awards
The 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) was held from January 7 to 11, 2026, with Lagos State serving as the official host city. The African Union Commission had formally designated Lagos for this role on April 9, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Nigerian talents emerged as major forces across numerous categories, showcasing the depth of the country's music scene.
In his congratulatory message, President Tinubu emphasized that the victories are a testament to the strength, creativity, and resilience of Nigerian youth. He noted that these achievements reflect years of dedication and have solidified Nigerian music as a powerful cultural ambassador across Africa and the world.
Celebrating the Award Winners
The Nigerian contingent secured a remarkable haul of awards, with several standout performances:
- Rema clinched three awards: Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African RnB & Soul.
- Burna Boy was honoured with the Album of the Year award.
- Shallipopi won Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration, the latter shared with Burna Boy.
- Phyno was named Best African Hip-Hop artiste.
- Qing Madi received the award for Most Promising Artiste.
- Yemi Alade won in the Best Soundtrack category.
- Chella was voted the African Fans’ Favourite.
- Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye were bestowed with the prestigious AFRIMA Legendary Award.
A Reflection of National Talent and Hard Work
President Tinubu stated that the accomplishments at AFRIMA are a proud moment for the entire nation. He highlighted that platforms like AFRIMA are crucial for providing African talents the opportunity to excel and compete at an international level. The President also commended the Lagos State government for successfully organizing and delivering a world-class event that reflected positively on Nigeria's capacity to host major continental gatherings.
"I warmly congratulate our outstanding Nigerian artistes for their remarkable achievements at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards," the President said. "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."
This sweeping success at one of Africa's premier music awards underscores Nigeria's sustained influence and leadership in shaping the continent's contemporary music landscape, driven by a generation of exceptionally gifted and hardworking artistes.
