The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) and the British High Commission in Nigeria have announced an exciting cultural partnership aimed at promoting creative exchange and deepening cultural ties between Africa and the world. This collaboration comes ahead of the 9th AFRIMA Awards, which is set to take place from January 7-11, 2026.

The partnership, formalized through a newly signed Cultural Cooperation Agreement, will see the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos co-hosting the Welcome Soirée for the nominees and guests—an exclusive event marking the official opening of the 9th AFRIMA Awards Week on January 7, 2026. The soirée will bring together AU officials, AFRIMA delegates, jury members, international guests, nominees, creatives, and media professionals for a night of networking and cultural celebration.

A Strategic Move to Boost African Music

Adenrele Niyi, AFRIMA’s Chief Experience Officer (CXO), emphasized that the partnership with the British High Commission is a strategic move to enhance cultural diplomacy through the universal language of music.

“This partnership reflects AFRIMA’s mission to position African music as a global force,” Niyi said, adding that the collaboration aims to create more opportunities for African talent to connect with global platforms.

She also highlighted that the 9th AFRIMA would place a strong emphasis on strengthening relationships within the global creative industry, expanding its impact beyond the event itself.

“Beyond the awards, we are committed to building spaces where creativity meets opportunity and where African talent can confidently engage the world. Working with the British High Commission expands our platform for industry innovation, collaboration, and meaningful cultural exchange,” Niyi said.

Strengthening UK-Africa Cultural Ties

The agreement, signed by Gill Lever OBE, Chargé d’Affaires at the British High Commission Nigeria, aligns with the UK’s ongoing efforts to support Nigeria’s creative industries. Lever expressed excitement about the partnership, underscoring the UK’s commitment to strengthening cultural ties between the UK, Nigeria, and the African continent.

“The UK is delighted to partner with AFRIMA to celebrate the extraordinary creativity and talent of Africa’s music industry. This collaboration reflects our commitment to strengthening cultural ties between the UK and Nigeria, and across the African continent. Our Jollof and Tea campaign has shown us the power of bringing people together through culture, and we’re excited to build on that spirit,” Lever said.

She also expressed anticipation for the week-long celebration of African music, which will showcase the best of African talent and open new doors for creative exchange and collaboration.

Exciting Lineup of Events at the 9th AFRIMA Awards

The 9th AFRIMA promises to be a landmark event for the African music industry, featuring a variety of exciting events, including:

• Diamond Showcase (Jan 7-8)
• Africa Music Business Summit (Jan 8)
• Host City Tour and CSR Visit
• Music Village Concert (Jan 9)
• Nominees & Industry Party (Jan 10)
• Red Carpet and Grand Awards Night (Jan 11)

The awards ceremony will be broadcast live to over 84 countries, ensuring that the excitement of the event reaches a global audience and highlights Africa’s growing influence in the global music scene.

A Celebration of African Music’s Global Impact

The partnership between AFRIMA and the British High Commission marks an important step in celebrating African music on the world stage. With a focus on cultural exchange, the 9th AFRIMA Awards promises to be a transformative experience for artists, fans, and the creative industry at large.

The collaboration will also build on the momentum of Africa’s music renaissance, ensuring that the continent’s talent continues to make waves internationally. As African music continues to dominate global charts, partnerships like these will help pave the way for even more opportunities for the industry’s growth and global recognition.