President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on the successful hosting of the African Music Awards, one of the biggest gatherings of music stars on the continent.
The ninth edition of AFRIMA was held from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos, which was designated as the host city by the African Union Commission on April 9, 2025.
The President, in a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, hailed Nigerian stars who won laurels at the grand finale on January 11.
To President Tinubu, the success of Nigerian musicians at the awards is clear proof that Nigeria’s music and creative ecosystem continue to grow and gain global respect.
He said, “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.”
At the event, Rema won Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African RnB & Soul. Burna Boy took Album of the Year, while Shallipopi won Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration with Burna Boy.
Phyno was named Best African Hip-Hop, Qing Madi Most Promising Artiste, and Yemi Alade Best Soundtrack. Chella received African Fans’ Favourite, and Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye were honoured with the AFRIMA Legendary Award.
According to President Tinubu, the achievements of Nigerian artistes at the awards reflect years of hard work, talent, and consistency.
He noted that Nigerian music had become a strong voice for the country across Africa and beyond, adding that global platforms such as AFRIMA continue to provide opportunities for African talents to shine and compete at the highest level.
“I warmly congratulate our outstanding Nigerian artistes for their remarkable achievements at the ninth 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.
“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 said.
President Tinubu, who was honoured in 2015 with the Pillar of Art and Culture in Africa Award by the African Union Commission and the International Committee of AFRIMA, assured that his administration would continue to prioritise youth empowerment and the development of the creative economy.
“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. Our government is fully committed to empowering young Nigerians and strengthening the creative economy,” the President said.