AU, AFRIMA Confirm January 7–11, 2026 for 9th Edition of Awards in Lagos

The African Union Commission (AUC) and the International Executive Committee of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) have officially announced that the 9th edition of Africa’s premier music awards will take place from Wednesday, January 7 to Sunday, January 11, 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria.

Originally scheduled for November 25–30, 2025, the event’s new dates follow extensive consultations with partners, artistes, and stakeholders across Africa and the diaspora.

“The African Union Commission is proud to continue its partnership with AFRIMA in celebrating Africa’s creative excellence and global influence,” said Ms Angela Martins, Acting Director of Social Development, Culture and Sports and Head of the Culture and Sport Division, AUC.

“This relationship aligns perfectly with the AU’s Cultural Policy for Africa and the AU Agenda 2063, which prioritise the creative economy as a driver of sustainable development, youth empowerment, and continental integration. The new dates for the 9th AFRIMA in January 2026 provide an exciting opportunity to further showcase the rich diversity, innovation, and unity of Africa’s music and culture to the world.”

Explaining the decision, Nde Ndifonka, AFRIMA’s Regional Director for Central Africa and Cameroonian music star Wax Dey, said the January dates will allow broader participation and ensure a high-quality experience for all involved.

“AFRIMA is not just an award show; it is Africa’s global music stage,” said Ndifonka, who is also a lawyer. “Rescheduling the 9th edition to January allows us to deliver the kind of world-class celebration that truly reflects Africa’s creative power. It also ensures that more of our stakeholders, artistes, fans, media, and partners can participate fully. This is about giving African music the grand platform it deserves.”

The 9th AFRIMA, held in partnership with the African Union Commission, the Federal Government of Nigeria as the Official Host Country, and Lagos State as the Official Host City, will feature a week-long celebration of music, culture, and entertainment.

The festivities kick off on Wednesday, January 7, with an exclusive Welcome Soirée for nominees, delegates, guests, and international media. This premium networking event will bring together artistes, industry leaders, sponsors, and media professionals. On the same day, the 9th AFRIMA Diamond Showcase will highlight 15 emerging African talents, providing them with a platform to reach wider audiences and break into mainstream music.

On Thursday, January 8, the focus shifts to the Africa Music Business Summit (AMBS) — AFRIMA’s signature conference fostering thought leadership and collaboration within the African music ecosystem. That evening, the Music Icons’ Night will honour legendary figures who have shaped Africa’s rich musical heritage.

The celebrations continue on Friday, January 9, with community outreach visits to schools, a host city cultural tour, and a courtesy reception with the Lagos State Government. The day will conclude with the AFRIMA Music Village, featuring live outdoor performances, a star-studded concert, and a festival arena.

Saturday, January 10, will see the 9th AFRIMA Nominees & Industry Party, a glamorous evening dedicated to past winners, current nominees, and AFRIMA’s valued sponsors and partners.

The week-long festival culminates on Sunday, January 11, 2026, with the live broadcast of the 9th AFRIMA Awards Ceremony at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels & Suites, Lagos. The grand finale will include a live Red Carpet broadcast and electrifying performances from Africa’s top music stars, reaching audiences in over 84 countries worldwide.