President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian artistes Rema, Yemi Alade, Burna Boy, Phyno, Qing Madi and others for emerging winners at the just concluded 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga on Thursday, the President described their performances as proofs of the countrys growing influence in African and global music.
Tinubu said the success of the artistes reflected the depth of talent, creativity and hard work that define Nigerias music industry, adding that they had made the nation proud.
I warmly congratulate our outstanding Nigerian artistes for their remarkable achievements at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards. Your success on this great continental stage is a proud moment for our nation and a strong reflection of the depth of talent, creativity and hard work that define Nigerias music industry.
You have not only won awards; you have projected our culture, amplified the voice of our youths and strengthened Nigerias creative identity across the continent and beyond. I commend each of you for your dedication and urge you to continue to use your talents to inspire hope, unity and pride, while contributing meaningfully to the growth of our creative economy and the development of our nation, the president declared.
Nigerian artistes dominated the awards ceremony held from January 7-11, 2026 in Lagos, the official host city designated by the African Union Commission in April 2025. Rema won Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African R&B and Soul. Burna Boy clinched Album of the Year, while Shallipopi won Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy.
While Phyno emerged Best African Hip-Hop, Qing Madi was named Most Promising Artiste, and Yemi Alade won Best Soundtrack. Chella received the African Fans Favourite award, as Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye were honoured with the AFRIMA Legendary Award.
Tinubu also praised Lagos State for successfully hosting the event, describing the state as Africas creative and entertainment hub. “I commend Lagos State for once again proving its capacity as Africas creative and entertainment capital. I congratulate the Lagos State Government and His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for the excellent hosting of Africas global music awards and for providing a safe, vibrant and welcoming environment for delegates, artistes and guests from across the continent, he stated.
While further assuring that his administration would continue to prioritise youth empowerment and the creative economy, the president said, Culture is the soul of a people, and music remains one of Africas strongest voices. I remain deeply committed to supporting initiatives that promote our culture and empower our creative talents,
He added that the Federal Government was fully committed to empowering young Nigerians and strengthening the creative economy, noting that music, film and fashion could create jobs, boost tourism and contribute significantly to the economy.
Founded in 2014 by the International Committee of AFRIMA, in partnership with the African Union Commission, this years award ceremony attracted over 1,216 artistes, delegates and industry stakeholders from 48 African countries.