By Ayomide Otitoju
No fewer than 416 African musicians have arrived in Lagos for the ninth edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), as the state hosts the continent-wide celebration of musical excellence.
The event, which runs from January 7 to 11, features a series of activities aimed at promoting the growth of the music ecosystem in Nigeria and across Africa. Key highlights include the AFRIMA Music Business Summit, the AFRIMA Music Village concert at Ikeja City Mall, and the awards ceremony scheduled to hold on Lagos Island on Sunday.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, reaffirmed the commitment of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration to strengthening the creative industry through sustained support and ecosystem development.
She described Lagos as Africa’s cultural and creative capital, noting that the state continues to encourage cross-cultural collaboration while positioning music and culture as key drivers of economic and social development.
According to Benson-Awoyinka, AFRIMA has evolved into one of the most influential platforms for recognising African musical excellence, fostering collaboration and promoting the continent’s creative economy globally.
She also acknowledged strategic partners, particularly the British High Commission, for supporting cultural exchange and creative diplomacy, describing such partnerships as vital to 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,” she said, adding that the event would further highlight the creative sector’s contribution to employment, tourism, youth empowerment and Africa’s global visibility.
The Commissioner congratulated all nominees and participants, saying their creativity and impact continue to showcase Africa’s diversity and competitiveness in the global creative space.
Also speaking, AFRIMA President and Chief Executive Producer, Mr. Mike Dada, said Lagos was selected as host city after extensive deliberations by the African Union and other stakeholders, citing the state’s infrastructure, capacity and cultural influence.
He noted that the event, organised in partnership with the African Union, aligns with key developmental frameworks, including Agenda 2063, while promoting Africa’s cultural heritage. Dada added that AFRIMA goes beyond music awards, serving as a platform for peace-building, continental integration and youth empowerment.
The co-producer of AFRIMA, Mr. Olisa Adibua, commended the Lagos State Government for its consistent support for the creative economy, urging residents and visitors to actively participate in the week-long celebrations.
He disclosed that about 6,000 free tickets would be provided through the Lagos State Government to enable young people to attend the AFRIMA Music Village concert, noting that the event would significantly boost tourism and the local economy.
