Falz, Liliane Maroune named hosts of 9th AFRIMA awards in Lagos

The ceremony, organised by AFRIMA’s International Executive Committee in collaboration with the African Union Commission and in partnership with the Lagos State Government, is scheduled to take place in Lagos, Nigeria, from 7 to 11 January 2026.

Falz becomes the second Nigerian to host the awards, following musician Innocent Ujah Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, who co-hosted the inaugural edition in 2014.

AFRIMA has previously featured hosts from across Africa and the diaspora. Past presenters include 2Baba and Maryse Acotie in 2014; DNG and Aurélie Eliam in 2015; Ahmed Soultan, Bonang Matheba and Ika De Jong in 2016; Akon and Sophy Aiida in 2017; Michael Blackson, Pearl Thusi and Anita Erskine in 2018; Pearl Thusi and Eddie Kadi in 2019 and 2021; and Ahmed Sylla, Sophy Aiida and Pearl Thusi at the eighth edition held in January 2023.

Explaining the choice of hosts, AFRIMA’s regional director for Central Africa, Nde Ndifonka, said Falz and Maroune reflected the diversity of the continent’s creative industries. “FalzTheBahdGuy brings intelligence, strong ideas, and a powerful African voice that connects with both young and old audiences,” he said. “Liliane embodies elegance, diversity, and the contemporary African woman with international influence.

“Together, they clearly show the strength and richness of African music and culture. They understand Africa, speak for Africa, and live the African experience in their own ways.”

Preparations for the 2026 edition are under way, with online voting continuing across 39 award categories.

The five-day programme will open with a welcome soirée for guests and nominees at the British Deputy High Commission House in Lagos on Wednesday, 7 January. The Africa Music Business Summit will follow on 8 January, at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites. On Friday, 9 January, the AFRIMA Music Village will be held at Ikeja City Mall, Alausa.

Activities will return to the Eko Convention Centre on Saturday, 10 January, for the nominees and industry party. The main awards ceremony will take place on Sunday, 11 January, and will be broadcast live from Lagos to audiences in more than 84 countries.