The 9th edition of the All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) has officially been rescheduled to take place from 7 to 11 January 2026 in Lagos, Nigeria. This decision comes after extensive consultations with artists, producers, industry stakeholders, and representatives from across Africa and the diaspora, reflecting AFRIMA’s commitment to inclusivity and collaboration. The rescheduled dates aim to accommodate the schedules of participants while ensuring that the event maximizes engagement and delivers a world-class celebration of African music.

Lagos, already recognized as one of Africa’s leading hubs for music, entertainment, and cultural innovation, will once again provide a vibrant backdrop for AFRIMA. The city’s dynamic energy and rich musical heritage make it an ideal host, capable of supporting an event of this scale with top-tier venues, production facilities, and audience capacity. By returning to Lagos, AFRIMA underscores Nigeria’s central role in shaping the African music landscape and its influence on global audiences.

Fans, industry insiders, and artists can expect a week filled with excitement, beginning with pre-event activities, industry panels, and networking opportunities. These will be followed by live performances, showcases, and ultimately, the awards ceremony itself. AFRIMA has consistently been a platform where established stars and emerging talents share the same stage, and the 2026 edition is expected to continue this tradition, highlighting the diversity, innovation, and creativity of African music.

The awards ceremony has long been instrumental in promoting cross-cultural collaborations and international recognition for African artists. With the revised dates, organizers have the opportunity to ensure that more artists, creatives, and industry professionals can participate fully, enhancing the overall experience. This adjustment also allows AFRIMA to align better with international calendars, potentially increasing media coverage, sponsorship opportunities, and global audience reach.

While the nominees for the 9th edition are eagerly anticipated, past editions suggest that AFRIMA will showcase a wide range of genres, including Afrobeats, gospel, hip-hop, R&B, traditional, and fusion music. The event continues to serve as a benchmark for excellence, providing a platform for African artists to gain recognition on a global scale while celebrating the continent’s rich musical heritage.

AFRIMA 2026 is more than just an awards show; it is a cultural gathering that celebrates creativity, resilience, and the impact of African music worldwide. The rescheduled dates provide the perfect opportunity to build anticipation, curate high-quality performances, and deliver an unforgettable experience for attendees and viewers alike. As Africa’s music industry continues to grow in influence and innovation, AFRIMA remains at the forefront, bridging artists, fans, and global audiences.

With the 9th edition set for 7–11 January 2026, stakeholders and fans alike are preparing for a landmark celebration that promises to elevate African music to new heights. From dynamic performances to the recognition of outstanding achievements, AFRIMA 2026 is set to reinforce its reputation as one of the continent’s most prestigious and influential music awards, highlighting the talent, creativity, and cultural richness that define African music today.