Davido Tems and BNXN headline Nigeria’s triumph at AFRIMMA 2026 in Dallas

Nigeria’s music scene had a night to remember at the AFRIMMA 2026 awards in Dallas, Texas. After taking a break for two years, the show came back stronger than ever on September 12, mixing energetic performances, fashion, food, and art into a genuine celebration of African talent.

Davido stole the spotlight, nabbing Album of the Year for his fifth studio release, 5ive. He dropped the album back in April 2025, and it’s packed with big names: Chris Brown, Victoria Monét, Becky G, Omah Lay, and Victony all made appearances. The songs dig into themes of growth and finding your own path. Davido walked in as the night’s most-nominated artist and walked out with one of the night’s biggest prizes.

Meanwhile, BNXN and producer Sarz grabbed Song of the Year for “Back Outside.” Their win just goes to show how much producer-artist teamwork is shaping Afrobeats right now. Tems, who keeps getting bigger and bigger on the global stage, took home Best Female West Africa. Ruger claimed Best Male West Africa.

The list of Nigerian winners kept growing: Phyno won Best Male Rap Act. Mercy Chinwo took home Best Gospel. DJ Tunez was named Best DJ Africa, and Patoranking snagged Best Male Reggae/Dancehall. Rising newcomer Fola made a strong first impression, winning Best Newcomer. The night also honored comedic star Real Warri Pikin, actress Uche Montana, and footballer Victor Osimhen.

But it wasn’t just about Nigeria. Congolese legend Fally Ipupa won both Artist of the Year and the Crossing Boundaries With Music Award. Timaya received the Timeless Impact Award, and the Guardian of the Nation Award went to Government “Tompolo” Ekpemupolo for his work in protecting national assets.

AFRIMMA 2026 showed, once again, just how much Nigeria drives African music — and how far Afrobeats has reached. For artists and fans, it was a night that left everyone buzzing with pride.