Nigeria dominated several major categories at the 2026 African Muzik Magazine Awards, AFRIMMA, as the ceremony returned to Dallas, Texas, after a two-year break.
The September 12 event, held at Annette Strauss Square, was presented as a wider music and cultural festival, bringing together African artistes, DJs, performers, food vendors and fashion brands before the awards celebration.
At the centre of Nigeria’s showing was Davido, whose fifth studio album, 5ive, won Album of the Year.
Released in April 2025, 5ive features collaborations with artistes including Chris Brown, Victoria Monét, Becky G, Omah Lay and Victony. The album explores themes of growth, hope and personal transformation.
Davido had entered the awards as the leading nominee with five nominations, including Artist of the Year and Best Male West Africa. However, the Artist of the Year prize went to Congolese star Fally Ipupa, who also won the Crossing Boundaries with Music honour.
BNXN, Sarz Win Song Of The Year
Another major Nigerian victory came from BNXN and producer Sarz, whose collaboration “Back Outside” won Song of the Year.
The song, released as part of their joint project The Game Needs Us, brought together BNXN’s vocals and Sarz’s production, reflecting the genre-blending direction of contemporary African pop music.
The win also highlighted the growing importance of producer-artiste partnerships in shaping African music beyond individual performances.
DJ Tunez Takes Best DJ Africa
Nigerian-American DJ and producer DJ Tunez won Best DJ Africa, defeating a field that included DJ Spinall, Uncle Waffles, DJ Obi, Major League DJs and DJ Kaywise.
The award adds another milestone to Tunez’s career, which has included his long association with Wizkid’s Starboy Entertainment and work within the global Afrobeats scene.
Tems, Ruger, Fola Shine
Nigeria’s success extended across several categories. Tems won Best Female West Africa, while Ruger took Best Male West Africa. Phyno won Best Male Rap Act, Fola was named Best Newcomer, and Mercy Chinwo won Best Gospel.
Other Nigerian winners included Patoranking, who won Best Male Reggae/Dancehall; Director Pink, who won Best Video Director; and Real Warri Pikin, who took Best Stand-Up Comedian.
Victony received the Fans Choice Award, while comedian Nasty Blaq, actress Uche Montana and footballer Victor Osimhen were also among the Nigerian recipients. Timaya received the Timeless Impact Award.
The Guardian of the Nation Award went to Government “Tompolo” Ekpemupolo, with AFRIMMA recognising his role, through Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, in protecting critical national assets and supporting peace and development in the Niger Delta.
The 2026 edition marked a significant shift for AFRIMMA, combining the awards with its first music festival in Dallas.
Founder Anderson Obiagwu had said the two-year break was intended to allow the organisers to return with a bigger experience. The festival featured African music, fashion, food and cultural activities, reinforcing AFRIMMA’s position as more than an awards ceremony.
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