President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian artistes who emerged winners at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), describing their achievements as evidence of Nigeria’s rising influence in African and global music.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the artistes’ success underscored “the depth of talent, creativity and hard work that define Nigeria’s music industry,” noting that their victories brought pride to the nation.
“I warmly congratulate our outstanding Nigerian artistes for their remarkable achievements at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards. 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,” Tinubu said.
“You have not only won awards; you have projected our culture, amplified the voice of our youths and strengthened Nigeria’s creative identity across the continent and beyond. I commend each of you for your dedication and urge you to continue to use your talents to inspire hope, unity and pride, while contributing meaningfully to the growth of our creative economy and the development of our nation,” he added.
Nigerian artistes dominated the awards ceremony, which took place from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos, the host city selected by the African Union Commission in April 2025.
Rema emerged as Artiste of the Year, also winning Best Male Artiste in Western Africa and Best African RnB and Soul. Burna Boy clinched the Album of the Year award, while Shallipopi won Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy.
Other Nigerian winners included Phyno, who took home Best African Hip-Hop; Qing Madi, named Most Promising Artiste; and Yemi Alade, who won Best Soundtrack. Chella received the African Fans’ Favourite award, while Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye were honoured with the AFRIMA Legendary Award.
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President Tinubu also commended Lagos State for the successful hosting of the event, describing it as Africa’s creative and entertainment hub.
“I commend Lagos State for once again proving its capacity as Africa’s creative and entertainment capital. I congratulate the Lagos State Government and His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for the excellent hosting of Africa’s global music awards and for providing a safe, vibrant and welcoming environment for delegates, artistes and guests from across the continent,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s focus on youth empowerment and the creative sector, Tinubu stated, “Culture is the soul of a people, and music remains one of Africa’s strongest voices. I remain deeply committed to supporting initiatives that promote our culture and empower our creative talents.”
He further assured that the Federal Government was “fully committed to empowering young Nigerians and strengthening the creative economy,” stressing that sectors such as music, film and fashion could drive job creation, tourism and economic growth.
Founded in 2014 by the International Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission, the AFRIMA platform attracted over 1,216 artistes, delegates and industry stakeholders from at least 48 African countries at the 9th edition.
The Lagos-hosted event featured a welcome ceremony, the Africa Music Business Summit, performances at the AFRIMA Music Village, and a sold-out grand finale at the Eko Convention Centre, where winners received the 23.9-carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy.