AFRIMA 2026: Lagos positions African music as cultural, economic power
Lagos State has reaffirmed its leadership in Africa’s creative and cultural landscape, using the 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) 2026 to showcase African music not just as entertainment, but as a driving force for cultural diplomacy, youth empowerment, and economic growth.
Speaking at the grand finale on Sunday, 11th January 2026, at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, described African music as the heartbeat of the continent’s identity—a universal language shaping global culture.
Addressing international artistes, industry leaders, and policymakers, Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka emphasised that Lagos’ role as official host city reflects deliberate investment in the creative economy, positioning music as a sector capable of generating jobs, fostering innovation, and enhancing Africa’s global influence.
She noted that AFRIMA 2026 went beyond a single awards night, highlighting the AFRIMA Press Conference, African Music Business Summit, and AFRIMA Music Village, which provided platforms for industry dialogue, skills development, and cross-border collaboration.
Paying tribute to legendary icons such as Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Bobby Benson, Victor Uwaifo, Victor Olaiya, Dan Maraya Jos, King Sunny Ade, and Chief Ebenezer Obey, Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka traced the evolution of African music, noting that their legacies laid the groundwork for today’s Afrobeats phenomenon, now dominating global charts.
“The contemporary success of Afrobeats proves that Africa’s cultural products, when structured and supported, can compete on, influence, and lead the world stage,” she said.
The Commissioner also highlighted the importance of nurturing young talents, stressing that purpose, discipline, and institutional support must complement creativity to transform talent into sustainable careers and enduring legacies. She called for stronger collaboration among governments, industry stakeholders, and creative institutions, noting that early talent development and community engagement are vital to a resilient and inclusive African entertainment industry.
Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka urged stakeholders to continue promoting African music with confidence and authenticity, reaffirming Lagos’ commitment to policies and partnerships that elevate culture as both heritage and economic capital.
Also speaking at the event, AFRIMA founder Mr. Mike Dada expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for hosting AFRIMA 2026 and supporting the creative and entertainment sectors. He acknowledged strategic partners and sponsors, including First Bank Plc, Guinness Nigeria, the United Kingdom and Swedish Governments in Nigeria, Utilita, GovenTurk, Union Service Agency, and various media organisations across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.
The awards ceremony featured electrifying live performances by African artistes, celebrating the continent’s rich musical diversity, rhythm, and soul.
In attendance were Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, ministry directors and staff, top government officials, industry stakeholders, and other distinguished guests.
Awards were presented across multiple categories, recognising excellence in Inspirational Music, Jazz, Reggae and Dancehall, Pop, Traditional and Contemporary African Music, R&B, Dance Choreography, Music Video of the Year, Soundtrack in Film, Series and Documentary, Songwriting, Hip-Hop, Collaboration, and African Lyrics and Rap.
