The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) officially kicked off activities for its 9th edition with a Nominees Welcome Party held on Tuesday, January 7, 2026, in Lagos.
Organised by AFRIMA in partnership with the British High Commission, Nigeria, the event took place at The British Residence, 1 Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi, marking the formal opening of AFRIMA week in the city ahead of the main awards ceremony.
The gathering brought together nominated artistes, diplomats, and key stakeholders from the African music industry, highlighting the growing collaboration between AFRIMA and the United Kingdom through music and cultural exchange.
Diplomats and Industry Leaders in Attendance
The evening attracted several high-profile guests, including Simon Field, Deputy Head of Mission at the UK Deputy High Commission in Lagos; Ambassador Anna Westerholm, Ambassador of Sweden to Nigeria; Ayo Animashaun, CEO of HipTV; Mike Dada, President of AFRIMA; and Dr. Olabisi Onasanya, former Managing Director of First Bank.
Nominees, music executives, and invited guests from across Africa were also present, creating a vibrant atmosphere of celebration and networking.
Purpose of the Partnership
The event was hosted by Ghanaian actress Juliet Ibrahim alongside veteran radio personality Olisa Adibua, who welcomed guests and highlighted the significance of the partnership between AFRIMA and the British High Commission.
Speaking at the event, Olisa Adibua noted that the relationship between African music and the United Kingdom “goes back many decades,” adding that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to cultural collaboration and global growth.
AFRIMA President Mike Dada expressed gratitude to the British government for its support, stating that the collaboration would further expand the global reach of African music.
“This partnership will help take African music to a wider global audience,” Dada said.
In an interview with HipTV, Dada further explained AFRIMA’s long-term vision.
“Our objective is to bring all African music genres to the global stage. Africa has many sounds, and AFRIMA is focused on giving them the right exposure and visibility across the world.”
A Historic Collaboration
Deputy High Commissioner Simon Field described the collaboration as historic, noting that it marks the first official partnership between the UK government and AFRIMA.
“The future of music is clearly African, and that future is now,” Field said. “This platform celebrates African musicians and recognises their contribution to music, not only in Africa but worldwide.”
Performances Light Up the Evening
Guests were treated to live performances from artistes across the continent, including Kodee, Victoria from Ethiopia, Element from Rwanda, as well as a dance performance by DNMT Dance of Nigeria, adding colour and energy to the night.
AFRIMA 2026 Continues
The 9th AFRIMA Awards runs from January 7 to 11, 2026, with the grand awards ceremony scheduled for Sunday, January 11, 2026, at the Eko Convention Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
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