Nigerian Artists Sweep Major Honours at All Africa Music Awards in Lagos

Nigerian musicians dominated the spotlight at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards, which concluded in Lagos on Sunday night, reaffirming the country’s position as a powerhouse in contemporary African music. The ceremony brought together artists from across the continent, but it was Nigerian stars who emerged with many of the most coveted trophies.

The night was led by global music icon Burna Boy, who won the prestigious Album of the Year award for his latest project No Sign of Weakness. The album has been widely praised for its blend of Afro-fusion sounds, social commentary and international appeal, further cementing Burna Boy’s status as one of Africa’s most influential artists.

Burna Boy also picked up the award for Best African Collaboration, which he shared with rising Nigerian artist Shallipopi. Their collaboration was recognised for its cross generational appeal and its role in bridging mainstream success with emerging street inspired sounds. The win highlighted how established stars and newer voices are increasingly working together to shape the continent’s evolving music landscape.

Shallipopi had an especially memorable night, going on to claim the Song of the Year award for his viral hit Laho. The track gained massive traction on social media platforms, becoming a soundtrack for online trends and street culture across several African countries. Its success underscored the growing influence of digital platforms in breaking new artists and turning local sounds into continental hits.

The awards ceremony, organised by the All Africa Music Awards, celebrated achievements across a wide range of genres, from Afrobeats and hip hop to traditional and gospel music. However, the prominence of Nigerian winners reflected the country’s continued dominance in exporting music that resonates far beyond its borders.

Industry observers say Nigeria’s strong showing is the result of years of investment in creative infrastructure, independent production and global collaborations. Nigerian artists have successfully tapped into international markets while maintaining strong connections to local audiences, creating a balance that appeals both at home and abroad.

The Lagos event also served as a cultural showcase, with performances that highlighted Africa’s diversity and artistic depth. Attendees described the atmosphere as celebratory, with the awards acting as both recognition of past achievements and a platform for future collaborations.

For Burna Boy, the latest accolades add to an already impressive list of international honours, reinforcing his role as a standard bearer for African music on the global stage. For Shallipopi, the wins marked a breakthrough moment, signalling his transition from viral sensation to recognised industry figure.

As African music continues to gain global attention, events like Afrima play a key role in shaping narratives around creativity, identity and influence. The dominance of Nigerian artists this year reflects not only individual talent but also a broader ecosystem that continues to nurture innovation and global reach.