…Over 10,000 entries, high hopes, one Vision, as AFRIMA 2025 to unveil nominees August 24
…Organisers set to host Africa’s biggest music celebration
EROMOSELE OMOIKE
LAGOS, Nigeria – In a grand show of unity, commitment, and celebration of Africa’s creative brilliance, the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Lagos State Government have officially declared their readiness to host the 2025 edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), scheduled to take place from November 25 to 30, 2025, in Lagos.
The announcement was made during the 2025 AFRIMA Patron’s Dinner, held in Lagos, which brought together an eclectic mix of dignitaries, music industry stakeholders, cultural influencers, international jurors, and policymakers from across the continent and the diaspora. The event was hosted by AFRIMA Patron, Dr. Bisi Onasanya, Chairman of The Address Homes.
The elegant evening served not only as a celebration of Africa’s rich musical heritage but also as a recognition of the efforts of AFRIMA’s International Jury, who had convened in Lagos for over a week to screen and adjudicate a record-breaking 10,717 entries received for this year’s awards.
FG and Lagos Reaffirm Support
Nigeria’s Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musawa, lauded AFRIMA’s significant role in projecting African culture globally. She highlighted the transformational power of music in uniting people and fostering economic growth.
“AFRIMA is a testimony of how the creative sector in Nigeria has evolved into a global standard, often without substantial government intervention. We are proud of what AFRIMA represents—its role in projecting our identity, culture, language, and talent. The government will continue to support platforms like this because they go beyond celebration; they fuel economic growth and foster unity across Africa,” Musawa stated.
On behalf of the Lagos State Government, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, affirmed the State’s preparedness to welcome artists, fans, and industry professionals from across the globe.
“Hosting AFRIMA 2025 is a great honour for Lagos. We are known as Africa’s entertainment and culture capital, and we are fully ready to host the continent and the world. We appreciate the confidence reposed in Lagos by the Federal Government, our partners, and AFRIMA,” she said.
She was joined by her counterpart, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho, as well as several high-ranking government officials and cultural icons.
Jurors Acknowledge Excellence
The AFRIMA 2025 adjudication process, overseen by a diverse panel of international jurors from 14 countries, was described as rigorous and inspiring. Representing West Africa on the panel, Guy Neza of Côte d’Ivoire, emphasized the diversity and quality of submissions this year.
“It’s been an amazing journey. The talent in Africa is incredible. Every submission tells a unique story, and AFRIMA provides a platform for these stories to resonate globally. The future of African music is promising,” Neza said.
The AFRIMA 2025 Nominees List is slated for release on August 24, following the conclusion of the jury’s deliberations.
AFRIMA Aims Higher
In his address, AFRIMA Patron Dr. Onasanya, who was accompanied by his wife Mrs. Olufunke Onasanya, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to excellence and legacy-building.
“Tonight, we honour our jurors whose dedication ensures the credibility of these awards. We are excited about this year’s edition and are confident that Lagos will deliver the most memorable AFRIMA yet. The last edition was fantastic, but this will be even better,” he said.
AFRIMA President and Founder, Mr. Mike Dada, expressed deep appreciation to all stakeholders, including the African Union Commission, the Federal Government, Lagos State, sponsors, media partners, and artists.
“We began this journey with a clear vision to build a credible platform for African music. AFRIMA is not just an award—it’s a movement. We are proud to have consistently upheld standards of transparency and merit. Every nominee is vetted, and every award earned,” Dada noted.
A Night of Glitz and Star Power
The evening also featured a soulful performance by rising Nigerian star Qing Madi, setting the tone for what promises to be a dynamic celebration of African music in November. Prominent music artists such as Ice Prince Zamani, Orezi, Praiz, and DJ Nana added glamour to the event with their presence.
Also in attendance were high-profile dignitaries including Lai Mohammed, former Minister of Information and Culture; media moguls Kenny Ogungbe, Dayo Adeneye, and ID Ogungbe; celebrated journalists Mayor Akinpelu, Ayo Aminu, Mojeed Jamiu, and Azu Arinze; Chioma Ude, founder of AFRIFF; and entertainment personalities Ali Baba, Olisa Adibua, Sunday Are, Ehiz, and Uti Nwachukwu, among others.
AFRIMA 2025: A Week of Celebration
The 2025 AFRIMA week will feature a series of high-profile events, including:
• Welcome Soiree
• AFRIMA Music Village
• African Music Business Summit
• Host City Tour
• Nominees Party
• Main Awards Ceremony
The climax—the awards night—will be broadcast live to over 84 countries, reinforcing AFRIMA’s position as Africa’s leading global music platform.
As Lagos prepares to roll out the red carpet once again, AFRIMA 2025 is shaping up to be a spectacular showcase of Africa’s rich musical tapestry, cultural pride, and artistic excellence.
