Lagos, Nigeria has been named the official host city for the 2025 edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), reaffirming its status as the continent’s entertainment capital.

The announcement was made during a high-level event held on Monday, 13 May 2025 at the African Union Commission (AUC) Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The landmark ceremony, brought together African music icons, policymakers, cultural stakeholders, and industry leaders from across the globe. The event featured the AFRIMA Music Conference, the unveiling of the 2025 awards calendar, and the long-awaited host city announcement.

The host city rights were formally awarded by the African Union Commission in partnership with the International Committee of AFRIMA. Lagos will host the awards for the seventh time since the event’s inception, with this year’s edition scheduled to take place from 25 to 30 November 2025.

In his welcome address, Mike Dada, AFRIMA’s President and Executive Producer, expressed gratitude to the African Union and the government of Ethiopia for hosting the unveiling. He described AFRIMA as a cultural beacon for African unity, peace, and economic empowerment, adding that the event continues to showcase the continent’s rich artistic talents while creating jobs and promoting tourism.

Angela Martins, Director for Social Development, Culture and Sport at the AUC’s Department of Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development, delivered the keynote address. She commended AFRIMA for its unwavering commitment to nurturing talent and using music as a vehicle for social transformation across the continent.

“This announcement is not just about a host city,” Martins said. “It reflects a shared belief that African music is not merely entertainment—it is a tool for education, advocacy, economic empowerment and cultural diplomacy. Lagos, a city brimming with youth, innovation, and rhythm, embodies the spirit of AFRIMA.”

The announcement was witnessed by leading names in African and global music, including Ghanaian Afro-dancehall star Stonebwoy, Kenyan singer Nikita Kering, Ugandan music icon Eddy Kenzo, and Ethiopian producer Bien Mekonnen.

Also present were AFRIMA Regional Director Mike Strano, Ethiopian music star Kat Nati, International Committee of AFRIMA Member Steve Ayorinde, Ethiopian media personality Qetselawerk Seifu, South African music business executive Brenden Matseko, AFRIMA’s Country Director for Ethiopia Eyob Alemayehu, AFRIMA’s Regional Director for Central Africa Nde Ndifonka, and Leo Fakhrul, Managing Director of UK-based Mamba Sounds.

Lagos’ selection signals a return to one of the continent’s most dynamic cultural hubs. With its vibrant music scene, diverse population, and infrastructure, Lagos is poised to host another memorable edition of AFRIMA, attracting global attention and amplifying Africa’s creative voice.