Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Davido has emerged as the most nominated artiste for the AFRIMMA 2026 nominations, earning five nods as the African Muzik Magazine Awards prepares for a highly anticipated comeback after a two-year break.
Organisers unveiled the nominees on Wednesday, confirming that this year’s ceremony will not only mark the return of the prestigious awards but will also introduce a new music festival designed to celebrate African music, fashion, food and entertainment on a larger scale.
AFRIMMA Returns with Bigger Plans
Founder of the African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA), Anderson Obiagwu, said the organisers deliberately paused the event over the past two years to redesign and expand the experience for artists and fans.
According to him, the 2026 edition will feature the maiden AFRIMMA Music Festival in Dallas, Texas, bringing together musicians, dancers, fashion brands and food vendors from across the African continent.
He expressed confidence that the expanded event would offer fans an unforgettable celebration of African culture and creativity.
Davido Dominates the Nomination List
Leading the AFRIMMA 2026 nominations, Davido received recognition in five major categories, reinforcing his status as one of Africa’s biggest music stars.
Among his nominations are:
- Artist of the Year
- Best Male West Africa
- Crossing Boundaries with Music Award
- AFRIMMA Album of the Year
- Best Collaboration and Song of the Year for his hit single “With You” featuring Omah Lay.
His strong showing places him ahead of all other nominees for this year’s awards.
Burna Boy, Black Sherif and Diamond Platnumz Also Shine
Several other African music stars also secured multiple nominations.
Burna Boy, Black Sherif and Tanzanian singer Diamond Platnumz each received four nominations across different categories, while South African sensation Tyla emerged as the most nominated female artiste with three nods.
Nigerian Grammy-winning singer Tems also earned multiple nominations, continuing her impressive run on the international music scene.
Entertainment Stars Feature Beyond Music
This year’s awards extend beyond music by recognising achievements in acting, comedy, social media and sports.
In the Best Influencer category, nominees include Peller, Carter Efe, Nasty Black, Sabinus and several other digital creators from across Africa.
The Best Actor/Actress category features notable Nigerian stars such as Timini Egbuson, Uzor Arukwe, Bimbo Ademoye and Uche Montana, alongside actors from Tanzania, Kenya and South Africa.
Comedy heavyweights including Basketmouth, Bovi, Trevor Noah and Warri Pikin will compete for the Best Comedian award.
Football Stars Recognised
The awards also celebrate excellence beyond entertainment.
The African Athlete of the Year category includes Nigerian football stars Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Nnamdi Madubuike, alongside Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, Cameroon’s Pascal Siakam and Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon.
Music Festival to Debut in Dallas
For the first time in its history, AFRIMMA will host a dedicated music festival alongside the awards ceremony.
Organisers say the event will showcase live performances from some of Africa’s biggest artistes while also promoting African cuisine, fashion, dance and creative businesses in the United States.
The initiative is expected to attract music lovers from different parts of the world and further strengthen AFRIMMA’s position as one of Africa’s leading entertainment platforms.
When Will AFRIMMA 2026 Hold?
The AFRIMMA 2026 Awards and inaugural music festival are scheduled to take place on September 12, 2026, at Annette Strauss Square in Dallas, Texas.
Fans are expected to vote across multiple categories as Africa’s biggest entertainers compete for top honours during the event’s return.
Major Highlights of AFRIMMA 2026 Nominations
- Davido leads with five nominations.
- Burna Boy, Black Sherif and Diamond Platnumz earn four nominations each.
- Tyla tops the female nominees with three nominations.
- Tems secures multiple nominations.
- The awards return after a two-year break.
- AFRIMMA will host its first-ever music festival in Dallas alongside the awards ceremony.