Lagos is alive with excitement as 1,216 artistes, delegates, and production crew members have arrived in the city for the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).
The figure was disclosed during the Welcome Soirée for nominees and guests, held at the residence of the British Deputy High Commissioner, officially signaling the commencement of AFRIMA Week.
Speaking at the event, AFRIMA President and Executive Producer, Mike Dada, said the impressive turnout reflects the growing global influence of African music and AFRIMA’s role—alongside the African Union Commission—in boosting the continent’s creative economies.
According to him, the arrivals include 732 artistes and managers, 301 delegates from Africa and the diaspora, and 183 technical production experts. He noted that the influx highlights Lagos’ strong tourism capacity and its positive impact on the local economy, adding that AFRIMA is pleased to collaborate with the Lagos State Government and other partners to drive economic benefits.
Dada emphasized that AFRIMA views music as a powerful force for integration, inclusion, peacebuilding, and economic growth across Africa and beyond. He described the awards platform as one that connects people regardless of race or background, celebrating shared humanity through talent.
He expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government and AFRIMA partners, including First Bank, Guinness, Glenfiddich, the Swedish Government, and the UK Government for hosting the event.
Also speaking, British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter praised the strong cultural ties between the UK, Nigeria, and Africa, noting the global success of African artistes and the dominance of Afrobeats on international charts. He reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to partnerships that promote mutual economic growth.
Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, described Lagos as Africa’s cultural capital, stressing the state government’s continued commitment to creating an enabling environment where creatives can grow, collaborate, and compete globally.