The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) has named Nigerian rapper and actor Falz and French‑Senegalese actress and media personality Liliane Maroune as hosts of the ninth edition of the awards.
The ninth AFRIMA is scheduled to take place from January 7 to January 11, 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria. The event is organised by the International Executive Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission and the Lagos State government, the official host city.
Falz becomes the second Nigerian to host the awards stage after music legend 2Baba, who co‑hosted the first edition in 2014. Over the years, AFRIMA has featured hosts from across Africa and the diaspora, including personalities from Kenya, Togo, Morocco, South Africa, Ghana, and the United States.
The 35-year-old is a multiple award winner in music and film. He is known for his thoughtful lyrics, stage presence, and social commentary, and has acted in films such as New Money, Brotherhood, 10 Days in Sun City, and Chief Daddy. Liliane Maroune is an actress, model, and television host known for her roles in West African series including Emprises and Cœurs Brisés. She also hosts the talk show Wakhtane Ak Lily, where she interviews leading African creatives.
Speaking on the choice of hosts, AFRIMA Regional Director for Central Africa Nde Ndifonka said:
“FalzTheBahdGuy brings intelligence, strong ideas, and a powerful African voice that connects with both young and old audiences. Liliane embodies elegance, diversity, and the contemporary African woman with international influence. Together, they represent the strength and richness of African music and culture. They understand Africa, speak for Africa, and live the African experience in their own unique ways.”
The five‑day event will begin with a Welcome Soirée for guests and nominees in Lagos on January 7, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit on January 8 at the Eko Convention Centre.
Music fans are expected to gather at Ikeja City Mall on January 9 for the AFRIMA Music Village. A Nominees and Industry Party will be held on January 10, ahead of the Main Awards Ceremony on January 11, also at the Eko Convention Centre. The Red Carpet starts at 3 p.m. (WAT), and the awards show will be broadcast live to more than 84 countries.
AFRIMA is one of Africa’s premier music award events, celebrating musical works and talent from across the continent and promoting African cultural heritage. It features dozens of award categories spanning regional and genre‑based honours.
Nominees for the 9th edition are being finalised and fans are participating in voting across 39 categories on the official AFRIMA website.
