President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian artistes who emerged winners at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).
He described their achievements as clear evidence of the steady growth and rising global recognition of Nigeria’s music and creative ecosystem.
The President in a congratulatory message issued by his Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga on thursday, applauded the artistes for making the nation proud on the continental stage.
He noted that their victories reflect the strength, creativity and resilience of Nigerian youths, as well as the country’s expanding influence in African and global music.
Recall that Nigerian artistes recorded an impressive outing at the 9th AFRIMA, held from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos State, the official host city designated by the African Union Commission on April 9, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
At the ceremony, Rema clinched Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African RnB & Soul. Burna Boy won Album of the Year, while Shallipopi took home Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy.
Phyno emerged as Best African Hip-Hop, Qing Madi won Most Promising Artiste, and Yemi Alade was named Best Soundtrack. Chella received the African Fans’ Favourite Award, while Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye were honoured with the AFRIMA Legendary Award.
President Tinubu lauded the remarkable performance of the Nigerian artistes at the awards ceremony, he said it reflected years of hard work, talent and consistency.
The President stated that Nigerian music has become a powerful voice for the country across Africa and beyond. He observed that global platforms such as AFRIMA continue to open doors for African talents to glow and compete at the highest levels.
“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.
“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.
The President also congratulated Lagos State, the official host city of the 9th AFRIMA, and commended the state government for delivering a successful and world-class event.
“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.
Prioritise Youth Empowerment
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.
He noted that music, film, fashion and other creative sectors have the capacity to generate jobs, boost tourism and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s 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.
Founded in 2014 by the International Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission, the awards platform has grown into Africa’s biggest music honours.
The 9th edition featured more than 1,216 artistes, delegates and industry stakeholders from at least 48 African countries, underscoring its continental reach and significance.
The celebrations in Lagos began on January 7 with a Welcome Soirée at the residence of the Deputy British High Commissioner, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit at the Eko Convention Centre.
Festivities continued on January 9 at the AFRIMA Music Village, Ikeja City Mall, where over 25 top artistes performed before more than 20,000 fans.
The event culminated in a sold-out grand finale at the Eko Convention Centre, where outstanding creatives were honoured with the 23.9-carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy.