(DDM) – Nigeria’s entertainment scene is gearing up for a global celebration as AFRIMA 2025 inches closer.
The Federal Government and Lagos State on Thursday declared readiness to host Africa and the world in November.
The announcement came during the AFRIMA Patron’s Dinner with the International Jury held in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The dinner exuded elegance and prestige, drawing policymakers, cultural leaders, music executives, and global jurors from 14 countries.
Jurors had spent the past week in Lagos carefully screening 10,717 entries submitted for the 2025 awards.
The much-anticipated nominees list will be released to the public on August 24 after the jury’s rigorous adjudication process.
Nigeria’s Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, praised AFRIMA’s contribution to Africa’s cultural identity.
She described AFRIMA as a global testimony to Nigeria’s creative excellence, even without heavy government financial backing.
Musawa assured that the Federal Government would sustain its support because the awards strengthen culture, unity, and economic growth.
Representing Lagos, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, reaffirmed that Lagos is fully prepared.
She said Lagos remains Africa’s entertainment capital, promising a world-class experience for artists, fans, and tourists in November.
Her remarks were supported by Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, who joined her at the dinner.
Patron Dr. Bisi Onasanya emphasized legacy, sustainability, and excellence as AFRIMA 2025 approaches.
He promised that this year’s edition would surpass previous ones, highlighting Lagos and Nigeria’s ability to host Africa.
The Patron’s Dinner also honored the international jury for their tireless work in upholding AFRIMA’s credibility.
Ivorian juror Guy Neza praised Africa’s creative talent and expressed optimism about the future of the continent’s music.
AFRIMA founder and president, Mike Dada, hailed stakeholders, the media, and the government for their unwavering support.
He stressed that credibility is the awards’ backbone, ensuring that only deserving artists earn nominations and recognition.
The evening sparkled with soulful performances from rising sensation Qing Madi and appearances by Ice Prince, Orezi, and Praiz.
Top media moguls, cultural icons, and entertainment stakeholders also graced the night, reinforcing AFRIMA’s continental prestige.
AFRIMA 2025 is scheduled for November 25 to 30, with Lagos as the official host city.
The week-long event will feature a Welcome Soiree, AFRIMA Music Village, African Music Business Summit, Nominees Party, and more.
The grand finale will be broadcast live to over 84 countries, cementing Nigeria’s place in global entertainment.
For Lagos, this is more than a show, it is a chance to showcase Africa’s heartbeat to the world.
For Nigeria, it is an affirmation that creativity remains one of the nation’s strongest exports beyond oil and politics.