President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian artistes who shone brightly at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), hailing their outstanding achievements as a testament to the growing global influence, creativity, and resilience of Nigeria’s vibrant music industry and youth.

The President described the successes as a proud moment for the nation, showcasing the depth of talent and hard work that continue to elevate Nigerian music across Africa and the world. He noted that the victories reflect years of dedication and consistency, positioning Nigerian sounds as a powerful cultural voice on the continental and international stage.

The 9th AFRIMA, held from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos — the official host city designated by the African Union Commission on April 9, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — delivered a stellar outing for Nigerian talents.

The event attracted over 1,200 artistes, delegates, and industry stakeholders from at least 48 African countries, underscoring its pan-African significance.

Key Nigerian winners included:

– Rema, who dominated with three major awards: Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African RnB & Soul.

– Burna Boy, who claimed Album of the Year for his project No Sign of Weakness, and shared Best African Collaboration with Shallipopi for their hit track “Laho” (or its remix).

– Shallipopi, who secured Song of the Year for his viral hit “Laho”, alongside the collaboration award.

– Other notable Nigerian honorees: Phyno (Best African Hip-Hop), Qing Madi (Most Promising Artiste), Yemi Alade (Best Soundtrack in a Movie, Series or Documentary for “You Are” from the animated series Iyanu), and Chella (African Fans’ Favourite).

– Veterans Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye (D1) received the prestigious AFRIMA Legendary Award.

President Tinubu extended special commendation to Lagos State for its exceptional hosting of the event, which featured a Welcome Soiree, the Africa Music Business Summit, a vibrant Music Village concert at Ikeja City Mall with over 25 top artistes performing for thousands of fans, and a sold-out grand finale at the Eko Convention Centre.

“I commend Lagos State for once again proving its capacity as Africa’s creative and entertainment capital. I congratulate the Lagos State Government and His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for delivering a successful, world-class, safe, and welcoming environment for delegates, artistes, and guests from across the continent,” the President stated.

Reflecting on his own recognition in 2015 with the Pillar of Art and Culture in Africa Award by the African Union Commission and AFRIMA, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritizing youth empowerment and the creative economy.

“Culture is the soul of a people, and music remains one of Africa’s strongest voices. I remain deeply committed to supporting initiatives that promote our culture and empower our creative talents.

Our government is fully committed to empowering young Nigerians and strengthening the creative economy through music, film, fashion, and other sectors that drive jobs, tourism, and national development,” he added.

The President urged the award-winning artistes to continue using their platforms to inspire hope, unity, and pride while contributing to Nigeria’s growth.

The 9th AFRIMA, founded in 2014 by the International Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission, culminated in the presentation of the iconic 23.9-carat gold-plated trophies to outstanding creatives.

• Ikechukwu Oyemike

Journalist Ikechukwu Oyemike, popularly known as Ogbuefi ItisIkechukwu, has joined The Isle 95.9 FM Lagos as head of events and on-air personality.

Oyemike spent more than than 11 years at Wazobia FM, where he established a strong reputation for credible journalism, compelling storytelling and audience-centred broadcasting.

Oyemike is widely respected for his ability to connect with listeners while delivering news, current affairs and commentary with clarity, energy and cultural relevance.

The appointment was announced by FemyWalsh Limited, a business, economy and development-focused media group, which described the onboarding of Oyemike as part of its strategy to strengthen programming quality, audience engagement and experiential broadcasting.

Oyemike said that he was delighted to begin a new chapter at The Isle 95.9 FM Lagos, noting that the role presents an opportunity to engage listeners both on air and through impactful events that foster meaningful audience connections.

The management of the station said that Oyemike’s dual role would see him contribute to strengthening on-air content while leading the development of high-impact events aimed at deepening community engagement.

Afrobeats singer Seun Kuti has responded to Wizkid fans over the “Big Bird” nickname controversy, saying the name is his and Wizkid should find his own original moniker.

The beef started when a Wizkid fan asked Seun on his Instagram live, to change his longtime nickname, claiming Wizkid is the “Biggest Bird” and Seun refused, citing he’s used the name longer.

“Wizkid ‘stole’ my name. Tell your fave to be original. Why are you telling me to change my name? Sorry, I can’t change it. This name has been here since. I am the first to come up with it”, he said.

Seun also slammed Wizkid’s team, including DJ Tunez, for not addressing comparisons between Wizkid and his late father Fela, stating that they indirectly allow fans drag Fela’s name into music disputes.

“If I see DJ Tunez again, I’ll confront him because he and his team are enjoying the Wizkid and Fela comparison instead of debunking it. I won’t even hug him,” he said.

In the video, Seun revealed he recently got $120,000 because he’s Fela’s son, saying his dad’s legacy still brings benefits.