Davido Leads AFRIMMA 2026 Nominations as Awards Return After Two-Year Break

The African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) have unveiled the nominees for the 2026 edition, marking the return of the prestigious awards after a two-year hiatus. Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Davido emerged as the biggest nominee with five nominations, while fellow Nigerian stars Burna Boy, Tems, Peller, Asake and several others also secured nominations across various categories.

According to AFRIMMA founder Anderson Obiagwu, the break was necessary to reposition the awards and introduce new experiences for African music lovers worldwide. He announced that this year's event will feature the first-ever AFRIMMA Music Festival in Dallas, Texas, combining live performances, fashion showcases, food exhibitions and cultural displays from across Africa.

Davido received nominations in major categories including Artist of the Year, Best Male West Africa, Crossing Boundaries with Music Award, AFRIMMA Album of the Year, while his collaboration with Omah Lay, With You, earned nominations for Best Collaboration and Song of the Year. Burna Boy, Diamond Platnumz and Black Sherif followed closely with four nominations each, while Tyla led the female nominees with three nominations and Tems secured two.

The nominations also recognised personalities beyond music. In the Best Influencer category, Nigerian content creators Peller, Carter Efe, Nasty Black and Sabinus made the shortlist. Actors including Timini Egbuson, Uzor Arukwe, Bimbo Ademoye and Uche Montana also received nominations in the Best Actor category.

The 2026 AFRIMMA Awards and Music Festival are scheduled to hold on September 12, 2026, at Annette Strauss Square in Dallas, Texas. Organisers said the event is expected to celebrate the achievements of African artists while promoting the continent's culture to a global audience.