Entertainment

January 17, 2026

A night of unforgettable moments in music

Falz

Falz

By BENJAMIN NJOKU

The four-day, held in an atmosphere of unity, colour and creativity with winners emerging from West, East, North, Central, Southern Africa and in the diaspora has left a lasting impression on the minds of the attendees from across Africa. The award show took place last Sunday night amid glamour.

But despite other memorable activities that preceded the four days event, the best part was the thrilling performances, and this year’s lineup was stacked. The night was not just a celebration; it was a testament to creativity and artistry that defined an entire year in music.

Hosted by rapper Falz and French-Senegalese actress and media personality Liliane Maroune, the night showcased some of the most iconic performances and awarded artists who shaped popular culture. The evening’s standout moment came when Afrobeats star, Rema took home multiple awards, including Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, Best Artiste of the Year and Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African RnB/Soul.

The 25-year-old ‘Calm Down’ crooner defeated top Nigerian superstars; Burna Boy, Davido, Amr Diab of Egypt, South African superstars, DJ Maphorisa and Tyla to win the prestigious Artiste of the Year award.

The award night climaxed the week-long celebration which began with a Welcome Soiree to formally receive Nominees and Guests held at the residence of the Deputy British High Commissioner on Wednesday, January 7. Activities continued with the Africa Music Business Summit at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, and on Friday, January 9, attention shifted to the AFRIMA Music Village at Ikeja City Mall, Lagos, where over 25 A-list artistes treated more than 20,000 people to the best of music at the high-octane concert.