Nigerian music stars dominated the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA 2026), held on Sunday night in Lagos, with Rema and Burna Boy emerging as standout winners in a ceremony that celebrated the continent’s musical diversity.
Rema was the biggest winner of the night, clinching three major awards.
The 24-year-old singer won Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, Artiste of the Year, and Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African R&B and Soul for his global hit Calm Down.
He edged out fellow Nigerian heavyweights including Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid and Asake in the top categories.
Burna Boy secured the Album of the Year award for No Sign of Weakness, reinforcing his status as one of Africa’s most influential music exports.
Yemi Alade also picked up a major honour, winning Best Soundtrack in a Movie, Series or Documentary for You Are from Iyanu: The Animated Series.
Fast-rising rapper Shallipopi enjoyed a memorable night, winning Song of the Year with Laho and also claiming Best African Collaboration for the same track alongside Burna Boy.
Phyno was named Best African Artiste in African Hip-Hop, while Chella won the African Fans’ Favourite award.
Outside Nigeria, Tanzania’s Jux won Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa, while Cindy Le Coeur of the Democratic Republic of Congo emerged as Best Female Artiste in Central Africa. Singuila of Congo won Best Male Artiste in Central Africa.
The ceremony, held at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, featured performances from artistes across Africa. Lagos hosted AFRIMA for the third time, following previous editions staged in Ghana and Senegal.
AFRIMA 2026 once again highlighted Nigeria’s strong influence on the African music scene, as its artistes claimed several of the night’s most prestigious awards.
