The African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) has officially returned after a two-year hiatus, unveiling the nominees for its 2026 edition.
Notably, Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Davido emerged as the biggest contender, further cementing his status as one of Africa’s leading music stars.
This year, Davido leads the nominations with five nods, reaffirming his dominance on the African music scene. Among his nominations are Artist of the Year, Best Male West Africa, Crossing Boundaries With Music Award, and AFRIMMA Album of the Year. Additionally, his hit collaboration with Omah Lay, With You, received nominations for Best Collaboration and Song of the Year.
Meanwhile, the organisers unveiled the nominees on Wednesday, marking the return of the awards after a two-year break. According to AFRIMMA founder Anderson Obiagwu, the hiatus was necessary to transform the event into a bigger and more memorable experience for fans worldwide.
“For the last two years, AFRIMMA took a break to make it even bigger and create something sensational. AFRIMMA is coming back bigger and better this year. It’s going to be epic, one of a kind,” Obiagwu said.
Furthermore, Obiagwu revealed that the 2026 edition will introduce the first-ever AFRIMMA Music Festival in Dallas, Texas. The festival will feature live performances, African fashion showcases, food vendors, dancers, and cultural entertainment from across the continent.
“This year, we’re adding a music festival, the biggest ever in Dallas. There will be several food vendors, fashion vendors, as well as some of the biggest dancers and musicians from different parts of Africa,” he added.
Beyond Davido’s impressive showing, several other African stars also secured multiple nominations. For instance, Burna Boy, Diamond Platnumz, and Black Sherif each received four nominations, while South African singer Tyla earned three nominations. Similarly, Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems picked up two nominations, continuing her remarkable international success.
In addition, the awards recognised the growing influence of digital creators. The Best Influencer category features Peller, Carter Efe, Sabinus, and Nasty Black, highlighting the increasing role of online personalities in shaping African entertainment. Likewise, actors including Timini Egbuson, Uzor Arukwe, Bimbo Ademoye, and Uche Montana will compete in the Best Actor category.
Looking ahead, the AFRIMMA 2026 Awards and Music Festival is scheduled to take place on September 12, 2026, at Annette Strauss Square in Dallas, Texas. As a result, music lovers from across Africa and the diaspora are expected to gather for what organisers describe as the biggest and most ambitious edition of the event yet.
Best Male West Africa Nominees
- Davido (Nigeria)
- Black Sherif (Ghana)
- BNXN (Nigeria)
- Rema (Nigeria)
- Asake (Nigeria)
- Didi B (Ivory Coast)
- Djodje (Cape Verde)
- Burna Boy (Nigeria)
- Wizkid (Nigeria)
- Ruger (Nigeria)
- Dino Santiago (Cape Verde)
