The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) and the British High Commission in Nigeria have entered into a strategic cultural partnership aimed at boosting creative exchange, strengthening cultural ties, and expanding global opportunities for African music as the 9th AFRIMA Awards approaches, scheduled for January 7–11, 2026.
The collaboration, formalised through a newly signed Cultural Cooperation Agreement, confirms that the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos will co-host the prestigious Welcome Soirée for nominees and guests— the official opening ceremony for the 9th AFRIMA Awards Week.
The exclusive gathering, taking place on January 7, 2026, will bring together officials of the African Union (AU), AFRIMA delegates, jury members, international guests, nominees, creatives, and media professionals for a night of networking and cultural celebration.
Widely recognised as Africa’s biggest global music awards, AFRIMA is organised by its International Executive Committee in partnership with the African Union Commission and the Lagos State Government, host city of the 2026 edition.
Speaking on the partnership, AFRIMA’s Chief Experience Officer (CXO), Adenrele Niyi, described the collaboration as a significant step in advancing cultural diplomacy through music.
“This partnership reflects AFRIMA’s mission to position African music as a global force,” she said. “Beyond the awards, we are committed to building spaces where creativity meets opportunity, and where African talent can confidently engage the world. Working with the British High Commission expands our platform for industry innovation, collaboration, and meaningful cultural exchange.”
Niyi added that the 2026 edition of AFRIMA will focus heavily on strengthening global creative-industry relationships.
“Partnerships like this show just how relevant African music has become on the world stage. We’re honoured to collaborate with such an important institution, and we believe the impact will stretch far beyond 2025.”
Signing on behalf of the British High Commission, Gill Lever OBE, Chargé d’Affaires, said the agreement aligns with the UK’s wider support for Nigeria’s creative industries through cultural exchange and innovation.
“The UK is delighted to partner with AFRIMA to celebrate the extraordinary creativity and talent of Africa's music industry. This collaboration reflects our commitment to strengthening cultural ties between the UK and Nigeria, and across the African continent. Our Jollof and Tea campaign has shown us the power of bringing people together through culture, and we’re excited to build on that spirit. We look forward to a week of celebration that showcases the very best of African music and opens new doors for creative exchange and collaboration.”
The five-day celebration will feature several high-profile events, including: Diamond Showcase (Jan 7–8), Africa Music Business Summit (Jan 8), Host City Tour & CSR Visit, Music Village Concert (Jan 9), Nominees & Industry Party (Jan 10) while Red Carpet and Grand Awards Night (Jan 11).
The Grand Finale will be broadcast live to more than 84 countries, ensuring a global spotlight on African music, culture, and creativity.