AFRIMA 2026: Lagos elevates music as cultural power and economic driver

Lagos State has reinforced its status as a leader in Africa’s creative and cultural sectors by leveraging the 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) 2026 to showcase African music not just as entertainment, but as a crucial instrument for cultural diplomacy, youth empowerment, and economic development.

During the grand finale held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Eko Hotels and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos State’s Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, referred to African music as the essence of the continent’s identity and a unifying language that influences global culture.

Speaking to an audience of international artists, industry leaders, and policymakers, the Commissioner emphasized that Lagos’ designation as the official Host City signifies a committed investment in the creative economy, highlighting music as a vital sector for job creation, innovation, and global significance for Africa’s largest city.

She noted that AFRIMA 2026 extended beyond an awards ceremony, serving as a comprehensive engagement ecosystem that included the AFRIMA Press Conference, African Music Business Summit, and AFRIMA Music Village, all aimed at fostering industry dialogue, capacity building, and cross-border collaboration.

Celebrating the evolution of African music, Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka acknowledged legendary figures such as Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Bobby Benson, Victor Uwaifo, Victor Olaiya, Dan Maraya Jos, King Sunny Ade, and Chief Ebenezer Obey, whose contributions laid the groundwork for today’s dominant Afrobeats genre.

She stated that the present success of Afrobeats demonstrates that Africa’s cultural products, when effectively structured and supported, can successfully compete on the global stage.

The Commissioner emphasized the necessity of nurturing young talent, asserting that purpose, discipline, and institutional backing are vital to transforming creativity into sustainable careers and lasting legacies.

She called for enhanced collaboration among government, industry players, and creative institutions, highlighting the importance of early talent development and community engagement in ensuring a resilient and inclusive future for Africa’s entertainment sector.

Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka encouraged stakeholders to represent African music with confidence and authenticity, reaffirming Lagos’ commitment to fostering policies and partnerships that elevate culture as both an asset and economic resource.

Mr. Mike Dada, the founder of AFRIMA, expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for hosting the 2026 event and for its ongoing support of the entertainment and creative industries.

He also acknowledged AFRIMA’s strategic partners and sponsors, including First Bank Plc, Guinness Nigeria, the UK Government in Nigeria, the Swedish Government in Nigeria, Utilita, GovenTurk, Union Service Agency, and various media organizations across Nigeria and beyond.

The AFRIMA 2026 ceremony featured vibrant live performances by numerous African artists, creating memorable moments that celebrated the rich diversity, rhythm, and soul of African music.

Attendees included the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, as well as Ministry directors, government officials, industry stakeholders, and other distinguished guests.

Awards were granted across several categories, honoring exceptional talent in Inspirational Music, Jazz, Reggae and Dancehall, Pop, Traditional and Contemporary African Music, R&B, Dance Choreography, Music Video of the Year, Soundtrack for Film, Series and Documentary, Songwriting, Hip-Hop, Collaboration, and African L yrics and Rap, among others.