The African Union Commission (AUC) and the International Executive Committee of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) have confirmed that the 9th edition of Africa’s premier music celebration will now hold from Wednesday, January 7 to Sunday, January 11, 2026, in Lagos.

Originally scheduled for November 25–30, 2025, the new dates follow extensive consultations with key partners, artistes, and stakeholders across Africa and the diaspora.

Ms. Angela Martins, Acting Director of Social Development, Culture and Sports, and Head of the Culture and Sport Division at the AUC, said the African Union remains proud to partner with AFRIMA in advancing Africa’s creative excellence and global influence.

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“This partnership aligns perfectly with the AU’s Cultural Policy for Africa and Agenda 2063, which prioritise the creative economy as a catalyst for sustainable development, youth empowerment, and continental integration,” Martins noted.

“The new dates in January 2026 present an opportunity to further showcase Africa’s rich cultural diversity, innovation, and unity to the world.”

Explaining the date adjustment, Nde Ndifonka, AFRIMA’s Regional Director for Central Africa and Cameroonian music star popularly known as Wax Dey, said the change will enhance participation and ensure a premium experience for all stakeholders.

“AFRIMA is more than an award show — it’s Africa’s global music stage,” he said. “Rescheduling to January allows us to deliver a truly world-class celebration that reflects the power and influence of African music. It also gives more artistes, fans, partners, and media the opportunity to take part fully.”

The 9th AFRIMA, hosted in partnership with the African Union Commission, the Federal Government of Nigeria (Official Host Country), and Lagos State (Official Host City), will feature a vibrant, week-long celebration of music, culture, and entertainment.

The festivities will open on Wednesday, January 7, with the Welcome Soirée, an exclusive networking event for nominees, delegates, guests, and international media. The same day will feature the AFRIMA Diamond Showcase, a special platform highlighting 15 emerging African artistes, giving them the opportunity to connect with a wider audience and break into mainstream success.

On Thursday, January 8, focus will shift to the Africa Music Business Summit (AMBS) — AFRIMA’s flagship conference for thought leadership and collaboration within the continent’s music ecosystem. The evening will conclude with the Music Icons’ Night, honouring legendary figures who have shaped Africa’s musical heritage.

Friday, January 9, will feature community outreach programs, cultural tours, and a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Government, culminating in the AFRIMA Music Village — an open-air concert and festival showcasing live performances from top African acts.

Saturday, January 10, will host the Nominees & Industry Party, a glamorous evening celebrating past winners, current nominees, and AFRIMA’s sponsors and partners.

The grand finale, the 9th AFRIMA Awards Ceremony, will take place on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels & Suites, Lagos. The globally broadcast event will feature a live red-carpet show and electrifying performances from Africa’s biggest stars, reaching audiences in more than 84 countries worldwide.