President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian artists who emerged winners at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), describing their victories as evidence of the continued growth and global recognition of Nigeria’s music and creative industry.
In a statement released by the State House on Wednesday, the President praised artists including Rema, Burna Boy, Shallipopi, Phyno, Qing Madi, Yemi Alade, Chella, Kenny Ogungbe, and Dayo Adeneye for making the country proud on the continental stage.
Read Also: Rema, Burna Boy, Juma Jux Shine at AFRIMA Award
According to Tinubu, the strong showing by Nigerian artistes at AFRIMA reflects the creativity, resilience, and hard work of Nigerian youths, as well as the country’s growing influence in African and global music.
“Their success at AFRIMA is a proud moment for our nation and a clear reflection of the depth of talent and creativity that define Nigeria’s music industry,” the President said.
The 9th AFRIMA, held from January 7 to 11, 2026, was hosted by Lagos State, which was officially designated as the host city by the African Union Commission in April 2025.
Nigerian artistes dominated several major categories at the awards ceremony.
Rema won Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African RnB and Soul, while Burna Boy clinched Album of the Year.
Shallipopi won Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy. Phyno emerged as Best African Hip-Hop artist, Qing Madi was named Most Promising Artist, and Yemi Alade won Best Soundtrack.
Chella received the African Fans’ Favourite award, while Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye were honoured with the AFRIMA Legendary Award.
President Tinubu noted that the achievements of the artistes were the result of years of consistency and dedication, adding that Nigerian music has become a powerful cultural voice across Africa and beyond.
“You have not only won awards; you have projected our culture, amplified the voice of our youths and strengthened Nigeria’s creative identity,” he said, urging the artistes to continue inspiring unity and contributing to the growth of the creative economy.
The President also commended Lagos State for successfully hosting the event, describing the state as Africa’s creative and entertainment capital.
He praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the state government for delivering a world-class and welcoming event for artists and delegates from across the continent.
Tinubu further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and the development of Nigeria’s creative economy, noting that sectors such as music, film, and fashion have the potential to create jobs, boost tourism, and contribute significantly to national growth.
The AFRIMA awards, founded in 2014 by the International Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission, attracted over 1,200 artistes, delegates, and industry stakeholders from at least 48 African countries at its 9th edition, underscoring its status as Africa’s biggest music awards platform.
For more details, visit New Daily Prime at www.newdailyprime.news.
