Rema Dominates AFRIMA 2026: A New King Crowned in Lagos

The hierarchy of African music underwent a seismic shift this weekend as the 2026 All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) culminated in a night of historic triumphs at the Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos. Rema, the 24-year-old sensation whose music has transcended continental borders, emerged as the undisputed heavyweight of the night. In a ceremony that celebrated the pulse of a continent, the Mavin Records prodigy successfully navigated a field of legendary icons to claim the evening’s most prestigious honors.

Walking away with a trio of major trophies, Rema secured the titles of Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, Artiste of the Year, and Best African Artiste in African RnB/Soul. The significance of these wins cannot be overstated, as they required him to outpace a formidable lineup of heavyweights including Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid. For many industry observers, the sweep signaled more than just a successful night; it marked a definitive passing of the torch to a younger generation that has mastered the global digital landscape.

The victory in the Artiste of the Year category served as the emotional climax of the event. Standing before a packed hall of peers and fans, the “Calm Down” star delivered a speech that was both humble and reflective. He credited his meteoric rise to the unwavering support of his “Ravers” fanbase, noting that the recognition on African soil remains the most meaningful validation of his craft. For Rema, the night was a testament to the endurance of his sound and his ability to maintain momentum long after his initial breakout.

While Rema captured the most headlines, the night was far from a one-man show. Burna Boy, the “African Giant” himself, reinforced his status as a premier songwriter and conceptualist by winning the Album of the Year award. The win served as a reminder that while the newer generation is surging, the established titans still command immense respect for their body of work. Burna’s presence added a layer of prestige to the evening, ensuring the competition remained at a world-class level.

The awards also highlighted the growing intersection between the Nigerian music industry and global film platforms. Yemi Alade, a perennial favorite on the AFRIMA stage, took home the award for Best Soundtrack in a Movie, Series, or Documentary. Her winning track, “You Are,” which featured in the high-profile Iyanu: The Animated Series, underscored how African music is increasingly becoming the sonic backbone for international storytelling and animation.

In one of the evening’s more surprising turns, Shallipopi proved that his viral success is backed by significant industry weight. The fast-rising star’s hit track “Laho” dominated the Song of the Year and Best Collaboration categories. His wins highlighted the “Pluto” wave’s grip on the contemporary scene, proving that the genre-bending, street-inspired sounds of Nigeria’s newest acts are finding deep resonance with the AFRIMA voting academy and the public alike.

The ceremony lived up to its reputation as a Pan-African celebration, looking well beyond the borders of Nigeria. The East African region found its champion in Tanzanian singer Jux, who claimed the trophy for Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa. Meanwhile, Central Africa’s rich musical heritage was represented by Congolese vocalist Cindy Le Coeur, who delivered a win for the Democratic Republic of Congo. These victories served as a vibrant reminder of the diversity of the African soundscape.

Hosting the event for the third time, Lagos proved once again why it is considered the entertainment capital of the continent. The Convention Centre at Eko Hotels was transformed into a theater of light and sound, featuring electrifying performances that bridged the gap between traditional rhythms and modern Afrobeats. The production quality of the 2026 edition reflected the growing commercial viability of African award shows, matching the standard of international equivalents.

Beyond the trophies, the 2026 AFRIMA served as a cultural summit for the continent’s most influential voices. From the red carpet to the final curtain call, the event was a showcase of African fashion, diplomacy, and creative excellence. The return of the show to Nigeria, following successful stints in Ghana and Senegal, reaffirmed the country’s central role in the African music economy and its ability to gather the continent’s best under one roof.

As the curtains fell on the 2026 edition, the narrative was clear: African music is in a state of robust health and constant evolution. Rema’s dominance suggests that the industry is ready for new leadership, while the success of veterans and rising stars alike proves there is room for a multitude of voices. The night in Lagos was not just a celebration of individual winners, but a collective victory for a continent that continues to dictate the global pop culture agenda.