Held in partnership with the African Union Commission, the evening launched with a red carpet event hosted by Nigerian “Gen Z Star” Enioluwa Adeoluwa and Kenyan actress Claudia Naisabwa, which was graced with stunning outfits, radiant smiles and legendary faces. The night marked a fitting celebration of Pan-African unity, with talents from Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Morocco, and South Africa sharing the spotlight.
Lead Photo: Rema celebrates his AFRIMA 2026 wins. Photo credit: @afromixx on Instagram
For nine years, AFRIMA has celebrated artists from Northern, Western, Eastern, Southern and Central Africa, and this year was no different. Held in partnership with the African Union Commission, the evening launched with a red carpet event hosted by Nigerian “Gen Z Star” Enioluwa Adeoluwa and Kenyan actress Claudia Naisabwa, which was graced with stunning outfits, radiant smiles and legendary faces. The night marked a fitting celebration of Pan-African unity, with talents from Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Morocco, and South Africa sharing the spotlight.
The red carpet buzzed with notable Nollywood figures, including Sola Fosudo, Segun Arinze, Kunle Afolayan, and Iyabo Ojo. The event was attended by several celebrities, media personalities, and dignitaries, including Juliet Ibrahim, Cindy Le Coeur, Annie Macaulay, Uche Montana, the Spanish Ambassador, Anna Westerholm, the AFRIMA President, Mike Dada, and Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism.
Juliet Ibrahim, Weeha, and DJ Brooke Bailey on the AFRIMA 2026 red carpet. Photo credit: @twinsdntbeg on Instagram
The night stood as further proof of the influence and global relevance of Afrobeats, with 19-year-old “Dumebi” crooner turned 25-year-old global superstar, Rema, starring the night, emerging as three-time winner, taking home Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa and Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African R&B & Soul. Burna Boy trailed closely, receiving awards in absentia for Album of the Year and Best African Collaboration with Shallipopi for their hit song “Laho.” “Laho” gave Shallipopi another win for the night with Song of the Year. Further sealing the night’s celebration of emerging talent, Qing Madi won the Most Promising Artiste of the Year award, while Chella picked up the African Fans’ Favourite award.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was also presented to Kenny “Keke” Ogungbe and Dayo “D1” Adeneye for their unwavering commitment towards the growth, promotion, and development of African music over the years.
In recognition and celebration of other outstanding African artists, South Africa reaffirmed its power and presence, with Nontokozo Mkhize and Yo Maps securing Best Female Artiste and Best Male Artiste in Southern Africa respectively, while Ciza also won Breakout Artiste of the Year. Tanzania’s Juma Jux emerged as Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa and Ghanaian singer Wendy Shay claimed Best Female in Western Africa.
AFRIMA 2026 wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the stellar line up of performances. From crowd favorites to highly energetic sets to surprise stage appearances, the night delivered unforgettable moments that showcased the best of African music and talent.
Shallipopi brings Rema on stage at AFRIMA 2026. Photo credit: @curatedby_bigibk on In-stagram
To open the floor for performances, Cabo Snoop made an appearance, taking the audience on a nostalgic ride back to 2010 performing his hit songs “Windeck” and “Prakatatumba”. Gaise Baba left a lasting impression on the audience as he lit up the hall with his performance and compelling visuals while performing his song “No Turning Back.” Shallipopi caught the attention of many before bringing Rema on stage to share a moment of brotherhood and mutual respect. Seyi Vibes, once again lived up to his mantra, “No Seyi No Vibes” with his crowd-thrilling performance. This unexpected performance became one of the night’s standout highlights, leaving fans cheering loudly and capturing the moment in excitement.
Fuji legend Adewale Ayuba, Ghana’s Stonebwoy, Mr P, Yemi Alade, South Africa’s Ciza, Kunmie, Patoranking, and Qing Madi also graced the AFRIMA stage.
The awards night ended the five-day celebration of African Music, recognizing talent and highlighting the diversity and impact of artists across the continent.