Lagos — The Lagos State Government has announced that it will host the ninth edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), reaffirming the state’s position as Africa’s leading creative and cultural hub.
The week-long celebration will run from January 7 to January 11, with activities taking place across Lagos. Key events include the AFRIMA Music Business Summit, the AFRIMA Music Village concert at Ikeja City Mall, and the grand award ceremony at Eko Hotels and Suites on Sunday.
Speaking at a press conference held on Wednesday at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, said the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration remains committed to strengthening the creative ecosystem and supporting initiatives that elevate African talent.
She described Lagos as Africa’s cultural and creative capital, noting that the state continues to promote cross-cultural collaboration and position music and culture as key drivers of economic growth and development.
“Lagos State is proud to support initiatives like AFRIMA that celebrate African excellence, foster collaboration, and promote our creative economy on the global stage,” Benson-Awoyinka said.
The Commissioner also acknowledged the role of strategic partners, particularly the British High Commission, for their sustained collaboration in promoting cultural exchange and creative diplomacy.
“This edition of AFRIMA will bring together artists, producers, industry leaders, policymakers, and creative entrepreneurs from across Africa and beyond. It underscores the growing relevance of the creative sector in employment generation, tourism development, youth empowerment, and Africa’s global visibility,” she added.
She congratulated all nominees and participants, describing AFRIMA as a platform that not only celebrates excellence but also amplifies African voices and stories to the world.
Reiterating the state government’s commitment, Benson-Awoyinka said Lagos would continue to create an enabling environment that supports creativity, attracts investment, and positions the state as a hub for arts, entertainment, and cultural tourism.
“As the programme of events unfolds, we look forward to constructive media engagement and continued collaboration with stakeholders to ensure a successful and impactful AFRIMA 2026,” she said.
Also speaking, AFRIMA President and Executive Producer, Mr Mike Dada, said Lagos emerged as host city after extensive deliberations by the African Union and other stakeholders, in recognition of its infrastructure, capacity, and cultural influence.
He noted that AFRIMA, organised in partnership with the African Union, aligns with key developmental frameworks such as Agenda 2063, using culture as a tool for continental integration, peace-building, and youth empowerment.
The co-producer of AFRIMA, Mr Olisa Adibua, commended the Lagos State Government for its consistent and practical support for the creative economy.
“From the beginning, Lagos State understood what AFRIMA represents. They don’t just talk about supporting the creative economy; they actually do it,” Adibua said.
He urged residents and visitors to actively participate in the week-long celebrations, adding that the event would significantly boost tourism and the local economy. According to him, about 6,000 free tickets will be made available through the Lagos State Government for young people to attend the AFRIMA Music Village concert.
Over 16 artists, 277 crew members, and 130 stakeholders are expected to participate in the event, which will culminate in the award ceremony on Sunday on Lagos Island.
