Lagos, Nigeria—one of Africa’s most vibrant cultural hubs—has officially been named the host city for the 2025 edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), set to take place from November 25 to 30, 2025.
The announcement was made during the AFRIMA 2025 Music Conference, Calendar Launch, and Host City unveiling held at the African Union Commission Secretariat in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on May 13, 2025.
This marks the seventh time Lagos will host the prestigious awards, reinforcing its status as the continent’s cultural capital. Themed “Unstoppable Africa,” AFRIMA 2025 aims to not only celebrate the excellence of African music but also spotlight its ever-growing global influence.
A Global Celebration of African Sound
The announcement comes at a time when African music is dominating global charts and shaping international pop culture. Artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tems are headlining major festivals and collaborating with global superstars, putting Africa at the center of the music world. AFRIMA 2025 seeks to affirm this momentum, providing a platform for both emerging and established African talents.
AFRIMA President Mike Dada emphasized the impact of the awards during the unveiling, highlighting plans to train 1.2 million young Africans over the next five years in areas such as music production, tech, and event planning. According to Dada, AFRIMA is about “more than awards—it’s about creating opportunities and inspiring the next generation.”
Submissions Open May 27
The AFRIMA 2025 entry portal officially opens on May 27, 2025, inviting musicians, producers, songwriters, and DJs from across Africa and the diaspora to submit their work. Whether you’re crafting hits in Lagos or experimenting in Nairobi, this is your chance to be part of Africa’s most prestigious music showcase.
Event Highlights in Lagos
The week-long festivities in Lagos promise an immersive cultural experience. Key events include:
- Diamond Showcase featuring emerging African artists
- African Music Business Summit for industry leaders and innovators
- AFRIMA Village Music Festival — an open-air celebration of African rhythms
- Nominees Soirees, Industry Parties, and After Parties
- Host City Tour, Music Icons Night, and the Main Awards Ceremony
A Star-Studded Unveiling
Notables in attendance at the Addis Ababa launch included Stonebwoy (Ghana), Nikita Kering (Kenya), and Eddy Kenzo (Uganda), as well as AU Culture Division Head Angela Martins and AFRIMA’s Chief Experience Officer Miss Niyi. The event featured panel discussions on the global positioning of African music, emphasizing the continent’s unstoppable rise.
As AFRIMA 2025 approaches, Lagos is poised to transform into the heartbeat of African music. Artists, fans, and industry players alike should prepare for an unforgettable celebration of Africa’s talent and cultural brilliance.
