LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Nigerian music industry delivered an extraordinary performance at the 9th Annual All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), capturing multiple top honors during Sunday night’s grand finale ceremony. The week-long celebration of African musical excellence concluded with Nigeria’s artists claiming the most prestigious categories, highlighting the nation’s continuing influence on the continental music scene.
Global afrobeats phenomenon Burna Boy secured the coveted Album of the Year award for his critically acclaimed July 2025 release ‘No Sign of Weakness,’ reinforcing his status as one of Africa’s most impactful musical exports. The Grammy-winning artist additionally shared the Best African Collaboration award with rapidly emerging Nigerian talent Shallipopi, who separately earned Song of the Year recognition for his social media sensation ‘Laho’.
The evening’s most decorated performer proved to be hitmaker Rema, who achieved a remarkable triple victory by claiming Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African Artiste in RnB and Soul categories. His wins underscored the diverse musical talent emerging from Nigeria’s vibrant music industry.
Veteran artists also received significant recognition, with Yemi Alade winning Best Soundtrack in a Movie, Series or Documentary for her contribution ‘You Are’ from the animated series Iyanu. Meanwhile, hip-hop pioneer Phyno was honored as Best African Artiste in African Hip-Hop, demonstrating the genre’s continuing evolution.
The ceremony also spotlighted Africa’s next generation of musical talent. Qing Madi received the Most Promising Artiste of the Year award, while Chella earned the African Fans’ Favourite distinction through popular vote.
While Nigerian artists dominated the winner’s circle, the awards maintained their pan-African character by celebrating exceptional talent from across the continent. Ghana’s Wendy Shay claimed Best Female Artiste in West Africa, South Africa’s Nontokozo Mkhize won Best Female Artiste in Southern Africa, and Tanzania’s Juma Jux was named Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa.
The overwhelming success of Nigerian performers at this year’s AFRIMA awards underscores the continuing global ascent of Afrobeats, which blends traditional African rhythms with contemporary Western influences. Burna Boy, who has been instrumental in the genre’s international breakthrough, continues to serve as one of its most prominent ambassadors, with his latest album victory further cementing his influential status within the global music landscape.