All you need to know about AFRIMA 2026

All eyes will be on the red carpet as the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) unveils one of its most glamorous moments, with leading media and fashion personalities set to headline the show in Lagos.

The AFRIMA Red Carpet is scheduled to commence at 3:30 pm (WAT) on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at the Eko Convention Centre, and will run until 6:30 pm, shortly before the main awards ceremony begins at 7:00 pm (WAT).

Popular Nigerian influencer, actor and media personality Enioluwa Adeoluwa, fondly known as Eni, will co-host the red carpet alongside Kenyan actress Claudia Naisabwa. The duo are expected to bring charm, confidence and pan-African flair as they welcome Africa’s biggest music stars and celebrities to the awards night.

Fashion lovers are also in for a treat as respected style voice Tosyn Bucknor steps in as the event’s fashion police. Known for his bold takes and keen eye for detail, Tosyn will analyse standout looks, daring outfits and headline-making fashion moments from the red carpet.

Joining him is fashion commentator Ariane Celeste Moua, who will deliver sharp and entertaining reviews, breaking down elegant gowns, statement suits and trend-setting ensembles as stars make their grand entrance.

Speaking on the red carpet lineup, Victoria Nkong, Associate Producer of AFRIMA, said the selection reflects the awards’ vision of blending music, fashion and African excellence on one global stage.

“The AFRIMA red carpet has grown into a major entertainment moment. It is where music meets fashion and culture. With Eni, Claudia, Tosyn and Ariane, viewers across the world should expect colour, class and unforgettable moments,” Nkong said.

She added that beyond the awards, the red carpet provides African artistes and designers with an opportunity to showcase creativity, confidence and identity before a global audience.

AFRIMA 2026, Africa’s biggest music celebration, is currently underway in Lagos, running from January 7 to 11, 2026. The week-long festival kicked off with a Welcome Soirée for nominees and invited guests hosted by the British High Commission in Nigeria.

Activities continued with the Africa Music Business Summit, while the AFRIMA Music Village, an open-air concert, thrilled fans with performances from top African artistes including Femi Kuti, Skales, Wande Coal, Diamond Platnumz, Mavo, and Yemi Alade.

The festival will culminate on Sunday, January 11, with the main awards ceremony, which will be co-hosted by Nigerian rapper and actor Falz and French-Senegalese actress and media personality Liliane Maroune.

The ceremony will be broadcast live to audiences in over 84 countries worldwide, airing on DStv Channel 196, GOtv Channel 28, and streamed via DStv Stream, further reinforcing Lagos’ status as a leading hub for music, entertainment and cultural tourism in Africa.