AFRIMA reschedules 9th edition to January 2026 in Lagos

The event, originally scheduled for 25 to 30 November 2025, has been postponed following consultations with partners, artists, and stakeholders across Africa and the diaspora, the organisers said.

AUC acting director of social development, culture and sports and head of the culture and sport division Angela Martins said the partnership with AFRIMA aligns with the African Union’s Cultural Policy for Africa and Agenda 2063, which emphasise the creative economy as a driver of sustainable development and youth empowerment.

The revised dates, Martins said, provide an opportunity to further showcase the continent’s musical diversity and innovation.

AFRIMA’s regional director for Central Africa, Nde Ndifonka, also known as Wax Dey, said the rescheduling would allow for wider participation and ensure a higher-quality event. “Moving the awards to January enables us to deliver a world-class celebration that truly reflects Africa’s creative strength,” he said.

The 9th AFRIMA will be organised in partnership with the AUC, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and Lagos State. The week-long programme will feature a series of events including the Welcome Soirée and the Diamond Showcase for emerging artists on 7 January, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit and the Music Icons’ Night on 8 January.

Activities on 9 January will include school visits, a cultural tour of the host city, and the AFRIMA Music Village concert. The Nominees and Industry Party is set for 10 January, while the awards ceremony will take place on 11 January at the Eko Convention Centre, Lagos.

The closing ceremony will include live performances from prominent African musicians and will be broadcast to audiences in more than 80 countries.