The Lagos State Government is set to host the ninth edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) to enhance the growth of the music ecosystem in Nigeria and across Africa.
AFRIMA will run from January 7 to January 11, with activities spread across Lagos. The programme includes AFRIMA Music Business Summit, which holds on Thursday, AFRIMA Music Village concert at Ikeja City Mall, and the award ceremony, scheduled to hold at the prestigious Eko Hotels and Suites on Sunday.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, on Wednesday to herald the AFRIMA Awards, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, declared that the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration will continue to support the creative industry by strengthening the ecosystem.
Benson-Awoyinka said Lagos remains Africa’s cultural and creative capital, hence its stance to encourage cross-cultural collaboration and position music and culture as drivers of development.
Speaking on the significance of AFRIMA, Lagos State’s role as host, and the broader cultural and economic value of the continental event to the creative industry and the State at large, Benson-Awoyinka said Lagos State is proud to continue its support for initiatives that elevate African talent and position culture as a driver of development.
The Commissioner said the All Africa Music Awards has, over the years, grown into one of the most influential platforms for recognising African musical excellence, fostering cross-cultural collaboration, and promoting Africa’s creative economy on the global stage.
She said: “On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, I wish to acknowledge and appreciate our strategic partners, particularly the British High Commission, for their sustained collaboration and commitment to cultural exchange and creative diplomacy.
“This type of partnership reinforces our shared vision of using arts and culture as tools for international engagement, innovation, and economic growth.
“This edition of AFRIMA will bring together artists, producers, industry leaders, policymakers, and creative entrepreneurs from across Africa and beyond. It will also underscore the growing relevance of the creative sector as a contributor to employment, tourism, youth empowerment, and global visibility for Africa.
“I want to use this medium to congratulate all the nominees and participants for this award. Your creativity, discipline, and impact continue to showcase Africa’s strength, diversity, and global competitiveness in the creative space. AFRIMA remains a platform that not only celebrates excellence but also amplifies African voices and stories to the world.”
Benson-Awoyinka stressed further that, “Lagos State remains Africa’s cultural and creative capital. Through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, we are committed to creating an enabling environment that supports creativity, encourages investment, and positions Lagos as a hub for arts, entertainment, and cultural tourism.
“As the programme of events unfolds, we look forward to constructive media engagement, positive coverage, and continued collaboration with stakeholders to ensure a successful and impactful AFRIMA 2026.”
Also speaking, the President and Executive Producer of AFRIMA, Mr Mike Dada, said Lagos emerged as the host city after extensive deliberations by the African Union and key stakeholders, in recognition of the state’s capacity, infrastructure and cultural influence.