The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to hosting the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) in 2026, describing the event as a key platform for promoting Africa’s creative economy, cultural diplomacy and global artistic influence.
Speaking at a press conference in Alausa, Ikeja, on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, said the state was proud to sustain its partnership with AFRIMA, which she described as one of the continent’s most influential platforms for celebrating African musical excellence.
“The All Africa Music Awards has, over the years, grown into one of the most influential platforms for recognising African musical excellence, fostering cross-cultural collaboration and promoting Africa’s creative economy on the global stage,” Benson-Awoyinka said.
She emphasised that Lagos remains committed to creating an enabling environment that supports creativity and strengthens the state’s cultural ecosystem.
The commissioner also acknowledged AFRIMA’s strategic partners, particularly the British High Commission, for their role in promoting cultural exchange and creative diplomacy.
“On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I appreciate our strategic partners, especially the British High Commission, for their sustained collaboration and commitment to cultural exchange,” she added.
Confirming Lagos as the host city, AFRIMA Founder, Mike Dada, announced that the 2026 edition would once again be a week-long festival featuring concerts, a music business summit and a globally televised awards ceremony showcasing African talent.
Dada said the event would contribute significantly to youth engagement, tourism inflow, economic activity and the enhancement of Lagos’ global cultural profile. “This event will boost youth engagement, tourism and economic growth, while positioning Lagos as Africa’s cultural and creative capital,” he said.
AFRIMA Co-founder, Olisa Adibua, also commended the Lagos State Government for its sustained support, describing the awards as a credible platform strengthening Africa’s music ecosystem through recognition and infrastructure development.
Benson-Awoyinka congratulated nominees and participants, praising them for projecting Africa positively to the world, and assured that the state government remains committed to delivering an AFRIMA 2026 edition that will generate lasting cultural and economic value for Lagos and the continent.
