Lagos became the centre of Africa’s music universe this past week as the All Africa Music Awards reached their final night, pulling in artists, industry leaders, and fans from across the continent.
The 9th edition of AFRIMA was staged at the Eko Convention Centre, closing out several days of performances, showcases, and industry events that began on January 7 and wrapped up on January 11, 2026. Backed by the African Union Commission and the Lagos State Government, this year’s ceremony was designed to reflect the full scale of African music, from mainstream stars to emerging regional sounds.
At the heart of the night was Rema, whose global rise was reflected in his multiple wins. The singer, now one of Africa’s most-streamed artists worldwide, picked up top honours that confirmed his place at the front of a new generation of African pop stars. His victories came ahead of more established names, signaling a clear shift in the industry.
Other Nigerian major artists also made their mark. Burna Boy added another major award to his growing list, this time for a project that reinforced his reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent global performers. Phyno was recognized for his impact in African hip-hop, while Yemi Alade was honoured for her work in screen music, highlighting how Nigerian artists are expanding beyond radio and streaming into film and animation.
The wins were not just about trophies. They reflected how deeply Nigerian sound now travels across borders, from clubs in London to playlists in New York and festivals in Europe. Afrobeats is no longer a niche export. It is a central force in global pop culture.
This year’s AFRIMA also showed how competitive African music has become. Artists from East, Central, and Southern Africa claimed major awards, reminding audiences that the continent’s creative power is growing in many directions. But Nigeria’s strong showing underlined why Lagos remains one of Africa’s most important music capitals.
Beyond the stage, AFRIMA 2026 was a reminder of how fast the African music business is evolving. Streaming, global touring, and digital platforms are changing how artists build careers, and Nigerian acts are leading that shift.
As the lights went down in Lagos, the message was clear. African music is no longer trying to break into the world. It is already there, and Nigerian artists are at the centre of that movement.