Lagos Set to Host AFRIMA 2025: The Unstoppable Rhythm of Africa
There’s a reason Lagos never sleeps. It’s not just the traffic or the late-night suya; it’s the unyielding pulse of music running through its streets. From November 25–30, 2025, that rhythm will take center stage once again as Lagos, Nigeria, is officially named the host city for the 2025 edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).
The announcement was made during the AFRIMA 2025 Music Conference, Calendar Launch, and Host City Announcement event held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at the African Union Commission Secretariat in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This marks the seventh time Lagos will host the continent’s biggest music celebration, and what better place to showcase the spirit of “Unstoppable Africa” than in the heart of Africa’s cultural and musical capital?
This year’s theme, “Unstoppable Africa,” could not be more fitting. African music is no longer just a local phenomenon—it dominates global charts, headlines major festivals, and powers cultural movements worldwide. AFRIMA 2025 sets the stage for more than just awards. It represents a full-blown affirmation of Africa’s global influence and musical talent, cementing the continent’s place in the global music scene.
Calling all artists—from the bustling studios of Kinshasa to the innovative digital labs of Nairobi, from the lively streets of Dakar to the Afrobeats giants in Accra—AFRIMA 2025 is officially open for entries starting May 27, 2025. If you’ve released a track, album, or sound that speaks to the soul of the continent (and beyond), this is your moment. The submission portal will be open to musicians, producers, DJs, and songwriters from across Africa and the diaspora, offering them a chance to join the iconic AFRIMA lineup.
AFRIMA President, Mr. Mike Dada, made it clear at the unveiling that this year’s edition is about more than just awards. It’s about impact. He revealed that AFRIMA has plans to train 1.2 million young Africans over the next five years in fields such as music production, music tech, event planning, and more. This initiative embodies what it means to be “unstoppable” and shows AFRIMA’s commitment to empowering the next generation of African music professionals.
The unveiling event in Addis Ababa wasn’t just about formalities; it was a gathering of industry powerhouses. Notables in attendance included Mrs. Angela Martins, Head of the Culture Division at the AU Commission, AFRIMA’s Chief Experience Officer, Miss Niyi, music legends like Stonebwoy (Ghana), Nikita Kering (Kenya), and Eddy Kenzo (Uganda), as well as industry figures such as Steve Ayorinde, Janette Haddadi, and Mike Strano.
The event also featured powerful panel discussions on the future of African music in a globalized world—conversations that are more relevant than ever, given the rising global influence of African artists. With the likes of Burna Boy headlining Coachella, Tems co-writing with Rihanna, and South African Amapiano filling dancefloors in Berlin, African music is at the forefront of cultural conversations worldwide.
AFRIMA 2025 promises to be more than just an awards ceremony. It will be a full-on cultural takeover. The week-long event will feature an exciting lineup, including Diamond Showcase, a platform highlighting new and underground African artists; the African Music Business Summit, a gathering for industry movers, shakers, and innovators; Nominees & Guest Soirees, Industry Parties, and After Parties, exclusive events for artists, fans, and industry insiders; AFRIMA Village Music Festival, a celebration of African sounds under open skies; Host City Tour, Luncheon with Government Officials, and a Music Icons Night, honoring the veterans of African music; and the Main Awards Ceremony and After Party, the climax of the week where legends are made, boundaries are broken, and Africa showcases why its music is unstoppable.
As the excitement builds toward November, one thing is clear: Lagos is ready. Africa is ready. And with AFRIMA 2025, the world better be ready too.
So, mark your calendars, prep your playlists, and if you’re an artist, get ready to submit starting May 27, 2025. Because the sound of Africa is no longer rising—it’s Unstoppable.
