President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially endorsed the 2025 edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), which is set to take place in Lagos from November 25 to 30, 2025. This approval signifies a strong commitment by the Nigerian government to promote the creative sector as a strategic pillar for economic growth and cultural diplomacy.

The theme for this year’s AFRIMA is “Unstoppable Africa,” symbolizing resilience, unity, and the dynamic talent found across the continent.

Federal Support Anchored by Cultural and Tourism Ministry

President Tinubu’s endorsement follows a formal request from the African Union Commission (AUC), which sought Nigeria’s collaboration in hosting the prestigious pan-African music awards. In response, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, inaugurated a high-level Local Organising Committee (LOC) on Wednesday, July 10, to oversee planning and coordination for the event.

The inter-ministerial committee, launched at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, includes representatives from several key agencies. These include:

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs

• Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation

• Ministry of Interior

• Nigerian Film Corporation

• National Film and Video Censors Board

• National Council for Arts and Culture

• Delegates from the African Union and AFRIMA International Committee

More Than an Awards Show—A Catalyst for Jobs, Tourism, and Global Image

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Minister Musawa emphasized that AFRIMA 2025 represents more than just an entertainment event. According to her, it aligns perfectly with President Tinubu’s vision of using the creative economy as a vehicle for national development.

“This event is a celebration of African music, yes—but it is also a gateway to job creation, tourism promotion, cultural diplomacy, and youth empowerment,” Musawa said.

“AFRIMA gives us an opportunity to present Africa’s rich stories to a global audience through music, while also stimulating the local economy.”

She also noted that the Federal Government, in partnership with Lagos State and the AFRIMA team, is committed to delivering an unforgettable edition that raises the bar for pan-African cultural events.

AFRIMA Executives Thank Tinubu, Praise Lagos as Host City

Also speaking at the inauguration, Mike Dada, President and Executive Producer of AFRIMA, lauded President Tinubu’s swift and visionary backing of the 2025 edition.

“This isn’t just about getting approval to host,” Dada said. “It reflects a deep understanding by the Federal Government of the role culture and music play in unifying the continent and shaping Africa’s global image.”

Dada further acknowledged the Lagos State Government for stepping forward to serve as the official host city, commending its long-standing investment in the creative industry.

“Lagos is the heartbeat of African music and entertainment. With the backing of the Federal and State governments, AFRIMA 2025 is set to be the most iconic edition yet,” he added.

Why AFRIMA Matters Now More Than Ever

Since its inception, AFRIMA has grown into Africa’s leading music awards platform, celebrating artistic excellence across over 50 countries and promoting cross-cultural collaboration. The event offers international exposure for African artists, boosts local tourism, and encourages investment in Africa’s creative industries.

This year’s “Unstoppable Africa” theme underscores the continent’s creative resilience, especially as it recovers from global economic shocks and leans into the future of digital music, Afrobeats dominance, and cultural renaissance.

The 2025 edition in Lagos is expected to draw global audiences, artists, and stakeholders from across the diaspora. It will feature award ceremonies, music business panels, talent showcases, and cultural exhibitions, culminating in an extravagant grand finale on November 30.

A National Commitment to Culture and Creativity

President Tinubu’s backing signals a growing recognition of Africa’s creative industries as engines of inclusive economic growth. The Ministry’s collaborative approach—with multiple agencies involved—shows that the event is being treated as a national priority, not just a social occasion.

AFRIMA 2025 promises not only to spotlight Africa’s top musical talents but also to position Nigeria as the epicenter of cultural excellence, creativity, and continental unity.