Lagos knows how to host a moment, and on Sunday night, it delivered one for the continent. The 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) turned Eko Hotels and Suites into a celebration of sound, style, and African ambition.
From the red carpet to the final announcements, the night felt less like an awards ceremony and more like a reminder of how far African music has travelled, and how much further it’s going.
Artists, industry leaders, creatives, and fans from across Africa gathered under one roof, united by music that now fills global charts, soundtracks, and dance floors. And when the trophies finally met their owners, a few names stood taller than the rest.
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A Big Night for Nigerian Stars and Continental Heavyweights
If the night had a headline act, it was Rema.The Nigerian superstar emerged as one of the biggest winners, claiming Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African Artiste in RnB and Soul. It was a defining moment for an artist whose sound continues to blur borders and expand the idea of what Afrobeats can be.
Burna Boy also had a statement night. His project No Sign of Weakness earned Album of the Year, reinforcing his reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent global exports. For Burna, it wasn’t just about winning. It was about dominance built over time.
Yemi Alade added a different kind of shine to the evening, winning Best Soundtrack in a Movie, Series or Documentary for You Are from the animated series Iyanu. It was a reminder that African artists are increasingly shaping stories across film, animation, and television, not just music charts.
Shallipopi’s viral anthem Laho picked up Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration, while Phyno reaffirmed his lyrical authority with Best African Artiste in African Hip-Hop. Rising star Qing Madi took home Most Promising Artiste of the Year, and Chella claimed African Fans’ Favourite, proving that listener love still counts for everything.
East, West, North, and South: Africa Showed Up Fully
Beyond Nigeria’s strong showing, AFRIMA 2026 was a true continental affair.
Tanzania’s Juma Jux stood tall in Eastern Africa, while Yo Maps represented Southern Africa with confidence. In Central Africa, Singuila and Cindy Le Coeur took home major honours, and Sherine’s win in Northern Africa reminded audiences of the region’s enduring musical influence.
The diversity of winners told a bigger story. African music is no longer driven by one sound or one region. From hip-hop and RnB to inspirational music, jazz, dance, and soundtrack work, the continent’s creative range was on full display.
The red carpet added its own layer of spectacle. Hosted by Enioluwa Adeoluwa and Claudia Naisabwa, with fashion commentary from Tosyn of Style Infidel and Ariane Celeste Moua, the pre-show turned style into storytelling. Every outfit felt like a statement, every entrance a moment.
To see the full list of winners from every category, head to AFRIMA’s official social handles.
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More Than Awards, A Cultural Marker
AFRIMA has always aimed to be more than trophies and applause. This year reinforced that vision.
The week-long celebration included the Africa Music Business Summit, industry conversations about the future of African music, and live performances at the AFRIMA Music Village. By the time the final award was announced, it was clear that the event wasn’t just rewarding past success. It was setting the tone for what comes next.
As African music continues to shape global culture, nights like this matter. They remind artists where they’re coming from, fans why they believe, and the industry why Africa’s sound deserves the world’s attention.
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