416 African Artists converge in Lagos for AFRIMA

Total of 416 musicians from across Africa have arrived in Lagos for the ninth edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). The event, running from January 7 to 11 and featuring a variety of activities, is being hosted by the Lagos State Government to bolster the music ecosystem in Nigeria and throughout the continent.

Key highlights include the AFRIMA Music Business Summit on Thursday, the AFRIMA Music Village concert at Ikeja City Mall, and the main awards ceremony on Sunday, which will take place on Lagos Island. At a press conference ahead of the awards, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, reaffirmed the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to nurturing the creative industry by strengthening its supporting infrastructure.

She emphasised that Lagos is Africa’s premier cultural and creative hub, and the state is dedicated to promoting cross-cultural collaborations while leveraging music and culture as catalysts for development. Benson-Awoyinka highlighted AFRIMA’s evolution into a major platform that celebrates African musical talent, encourages continental collaboration, and elevates Africa’s creative economy globally.

She stated: “Lagos State is Africa’s cultural and creative capital. Through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, we are focused on fostering an environment that nurtures creativity, attracts investment, and establishes Lagos as a leading centre for arts, entertainment, and cultural tourism.

“On behalf of the Lagos State Government and its people, I extend gratitude to our partners, especially the British High Commission, for their ongoing support in cultural exchange and creative diplomacy.

“Such collaborations align with our goal of using arts and culture to drive international relations, innovation, and economic progress.

“This year’s AFRIMA will unite artists, producers, industry executives, policymakers, and creative entrepreneurs from Africa and beyond, highlighting the creative sector’s role in job creation, tourism, youth empowerment, and enhancing Africa’s global profile.

“I congratulate all nominees and participants. Your talent, dedication, and influence continue to demonstrate Africa’s richness, diversity, and competitiveness in the global creative arena. AFRIMA not only honours excellence but also amplifies African narratives worldwide.

AFRIMA President and Chief Executive Producer, Mr. Mike Dada, explained that Lagos was selected as host following thorough discussions with the African Union and stakeholders, in recognition of the state’s robust infrastructure, capacity, and cultural prominence.

He noted that, in collaboration with the African Union, the event aligns with Agenda 2063 by promoting cultural heritage.Dada added that AFRIMA goes beyond awards, serving as a vehicle for peace-building, African integration, and youth empowerment.Co-producer Mr. Olisa Adibua praised the Lagos State Government for its tangible and consistent backing of the creative sector.”

From the outset, Lagos State has truly understood our vision. They don’t just speak about supporting the creative economy, they actively deliver,” he remarked. Adibua encouraged residents and visitors to engage fully in the week-long festivities, pointing out that AFRIMA will provide a significant boost to tourism and the local economy.

He also announced that approximately 6,000 free tickets will be distributed through the Lagos State Government to allow young people to attend the AFRIMA Music Village concert.