The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) and the British High Commission in Nigeria have solidified a major cultural partnership aimed at boosting creative exchange, reinforcing cultural ties, and unlocking greater international avenues for African music talent. This collaboration comes as the 9th edition of the AFRIMA Awards prepares to take center stage from January 7 to 11, 2026.
The alliance was formalized through a newly executed Cultural Cooperation Agreement. A key highlight of this partnership is the confirmation that the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos will co-host the official opening event of the 9th AFRIMA Awards Week—the Welcome Soirée for Nominees and Guests on January 7, 2026.
This exclusive networking gathering is set to host a powerful mix of industry stakeholders, including African Union (AU) officials, AFRIMA delegates, jury members, international guests, nominees, creative professionals, and media representatives, ensuring an evening rich in cultural connection and professional opportunity.
The 9th AFRIMA—undeniably Africa’s premier global music awards platform—is jointly organized by the International Executive Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission and the Lagos State government as the Official Host City.
Strategic Cultural Diplomacy
Speaking on the significant partnership, Adenrele Niyi, AFRIMA’s Chief Experience Officer (CXO), characterized the collaboration as a strategic move designed to deepen cultural diplomacy using the universal language of music.
“This partnership reflects AFRIMA’s mission to position African music as a global force,” she stated. “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 further noted that this edition of AFRIMA will place a strong emphasis on solidifying 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 go far beyond 2025,” she said.
Strengthening UK-Nigeria Ties
The agreement, which was officially signed by Gill Lever OBE, Chargé d’Affaires, British High Commission Nigeria, aligns seamlessly with the UK’s existing support for Nigeria’s creative industries through initiatives focused on enhanced cultural exchange and innovation.
“The UK is delighted to partner with AFRIMA to celebrate the extraordinary creativity and talent of Africa’s music industry,” Lever said. “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 a packed lineup of high-profile events, including the Diamond Showcase (Jan 7–8), the Africa Music Business Summit (Jan 8), the Host City Tour and CSR Visit, the Music Village Concert (Jan 9), the Nominees & Industry Party (Jan 10), and the climax: the Red Carpet and Grand Awards Night (Jan 11). The main awards ceremony is scheduled to be broadcast live to over 84 countries, ensuring its reach extends to audiences worldwide.
