The Lagos State Government, First Bank of Nigeria, Guinness Nigeria, The Address Homes, the Government of Sweden, Gobet247, and several other major organisations have pledged strong support for the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards, scheduled to take place from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos.
The announcement, made in partnership with the African Union Commission, underscores growing confidence in African music as both a cultural and economic force. The 2026 edition, themed “Unstoppable Africa,” has attracted sponsorship from key sectors including finance, real estate, beverages, digital platforms, media, hospitality, and international cultural institutions.
Following Lagos State Government’s acceptance of the African Union’s offer to host, the city will once again serve as the Official Host City, cementing its status as Africa’s leading creative and entertainment hub. With strong support from the Federal Government of Nigeria, the 9th AFRIMA is expected to be a landmark celebration of African music and culture. The African Union Commission continues its role as AFRIMA’s legacy Institutional Partner, promoting African music across the continent and beyond.
At the top tier, digital payments and lifestyle platform Utilita and gaming and entertainment brand Gobet247 will headline as National Gold Sponsors. The Silver level includes First Bank of Nigeria, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, and The Address Homes. Guinness Nigeria returns as the Official Beer Sponsor, adding energy to the festivities. International cultural support comes from the British High Commission in Nigeria and the Embassy of Sweden, serving as Cultural Exchange Partners.
In travel and hospitality, Wakanow, Pan Atlantic Travels, and Dorf Travels & Tours Ltd have been named Official Travel Partners. Vaniti Lagos and Knowhere Restaurant will host nominees and special guests as Hospitality Partners. Popular youth platform Mainland Block Party Lagos will also participate, injecting street culture into the AFRIMA Music Village on January 9 at Ikeja City Mall.
AFRIMA has confirmed a strong coalition of media organisations across television, radio, print, digital, and Out-of-Home channels as Official Media Partners. These include DSTV/Multichoice, HIPTV, Afro Music Pop, Base FM, among others.
Speaking on FirstBank’s involvement, Olayinka Ijabiyi, acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, said, “At FirstBank, we are dedicated to promoting Africa’s vibrant creative industry, and our partnership with AFRIMA reflects this commitment.
“Through our First@Arts initiative, we have consistently supported projects across the creative value chain, nurturing talent and enabling production. In doing this, we preserve Africa’s rich cultural heritage while promoting unity, education, and entertainment.”
From the international community, Anna Westerholm, Ambassador of Sweden to Nigeria, added, “Sweden is proud to join AFRIMA in celebrating the richness and global impact of African music. In 2026, we will mark 65 years of diplomatic relations with Nigeria, highlighting our strong ties.
“As the world’s third-largest music exporter, we believe in the power of collaboration and idea exchange. This partnership enhances our cultural and business connections, and we look forward to a meaningful week supporting the creative industries.”
Yinka Bakare, Marketing and Innovations Director at Guinness Nigeria Plc, said, “Guinness has been woven into Africa’s most iconic cultural moments for decades, and our sponsorship of AFRIMA’s 9th edition reinforces that heritage. AFRIMA celebrates the extraordinary artistry that defines Africa, and we are proud to support a platform that showcases the continent’s greatness to the world.”
Dr Bisi Onasanya, Founder and Chairman of The Address Homes, described AFRIMA as “an important platform for African creativity, collaboration and cultural identity expressions. AFRIMA represents the spirit of African excellence and innovation.
“At The Address Homes, we believe that culture, creativity, and enterprise must work together to drive sustainable growth. Supporting AFRIMA is our way of building and investing in Africa’s talents, strengthening cultural pride and opening new opportunities for creative young people and business partnerships across the continent.”
