The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) has unveiled a major cultural partnership with the British High Commission in Nigeria. This collaboration is set to elevate Africa’s creative industry by expanding cultural exchange opportunities, strengthening diplomatic ties, and amplifying African music on the global stage. The announcement comes ahead of the 9th AFRIMA Awards, scheduled for January 7 to 11, 2026.
British High Commission to Co-Host the Welcome Soirée
The partnership was formalized through a Cultural Cooperation Agreement. The agreement confirms that the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos will co-host the prestigious Welcome Soirée. That is the official opening ceremony of the 2026 AFRIMA Awards Week. The soirée will take place on January 7, with African Union officials, AFRIMA delegates, jurors, global music stakeholders, international guests, nominees, creatives, and media professionals in attendance. It promises an evening of rich cultural immersion and high-level networking. iNaijanow shared a full story on the good news of AFRIMA’s return to Lagos.
AFRIMA’s Vision for Global Cultural Diplomacy
Organized by the International Executive Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission and Lagos State Government, the awards have grown into Africa’s most recognized global music platform. For its 2026 edition, AFRIMA is emphasizing international cultural diplomacy more than ever before. AFRIMA’s Chief Experience Officer, Adenrele Niyi, described the partnership as a strategic milestone. She highlighted that AFRIMA is committed to building ecosystems where African creatives can thrive, explore new opportunities, and confidently engage with global networks. According to her, working with the British High Commission enhances the organization’s capacity to drive innovation, collaboration, and authentic cultural exchange. She added that AFRIMA 2026 will spotlight stronger cross-border partnerships, reflecting the increasing relevance of African music worldwide.
The UK’s Continued Support for African Creativity
Gill Lever OBE, Chargé d’Affaires at the British High Commission in Nigeria, while speaking on behalf of the United Kingdom, emphasized Britain’s long-standing commitment to supporting Nigeria’s creative economy. Lever expressed enthusiasm for partnering with AFRIMA to celebrate Africa’s artistic excellence. She noted that initiatives like the “Jollof and Tea” campaign have shown how culture can bridge people and nations, and she expressed optimism that AFRIMA 2026 will further strengthen these ties. Lever stated that the UK sees this partnership as a gateway to deeper, long-lasting collaboration with Africa’s booming creative industries. She stressed that the awards offer an ideal platform to showcase African talent while opening new channels for cultural and creative exchange.
The 2026 Awards Week will not only celebrate African music but also serve as a bridge between cultures, encouraging innovation, unity, and a deeper appreciation of the continent’s creative power.
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