AFRIMA 2025 Nominations: Burna Boy, Davido, & Nigeria Lead Africa’s Music Awards

As the 2025 All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) unveil their nomination list, the spotlight returns to Africa’s thriving music scene, with Nigerian artistes once again taking centre stage.

With Burna Boy and Davido leading the charge with five nominations each, the nominees paint a clear picture of Nigeria’s continued dominance in shaping the sound of African music. Both global icons have carried the flag high in recent years, earning recognition not just at home but on international platforms.

Burna Boy’s critically acclaimed project ‘No Sign of Weakness’ and Davido’s chart-topping album ‘5ive’ have both been nominated for Album of the Year. Their songs also earned nods in the categories of Song of the Year and Best Collaboration, showcasing how their artistry resonates across borders.

However, AFRIMA 2025 is not solely a competition between two contenders. South Africa’s celebrated producer and DJ, DJ Maphorisa, matched their streak with five nominations, proving their versatility as both a hitmaker and curator of sound. Moroccan rap sensation El Grande Toto also secured five nods for his viral tracks ‘Salgoat’ and ‘Diplomatico’, signalling North Africa’s growing influence in the continental music conversation.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s rising star Shallipopi, whose street-pop anthems have become staples on streaming charts, bagged four nominations, including Song of the Year and Artiste of the Year. His recognition is a significant victory for the emerging wave of Nigerian street music, which is breaking down cultural and geographical barriers.

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East Africa is also well-represented. Tanzanian megastar Diamond Platnumz landed four nominations, continuing his reign as one of the region’s biggest exports. His compatriot, Juma Jux, scored three nominations, including a Song of the Year spot for his emotional ballad ‘Ololufe Mi’.

From the South, Tyla, who has taken the world by storm with her fresh sound, also received four nominations, underlining the global appeal of South Africa’s rising generation of artists.

Adding to Nigeria’s medal haul, Rema and Ayra Starr each secured three nominations, cementing their status as global ambassadors of Afrobeats.

Nigeria holds special significance for this year’s AFRIMA, as the country announced in May that it will host the event in 2025. With Nigeria at the forefront of African music, its stars receive even more attention as they compete against equally strong contenders from across the continent.

As the music world eagerly awaits the award night, one thing is clear: AFRIMA 2025 will not only celebrate music but also the cultural power of Africa’s ever-evolving sound.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is AFRIMA?

The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) is an annual event that celebrates and rewards musical works, talents, and creativity across the African continent while promoting African cultural heritage globally.

2. When will AFRIMA 2025 take place?

The official date is yet to be announced, but Nigeria has been confirmed as the host nation for the 2025 edition.

3. Who are the top nominees for AFRIMA 2025?

Burna Boy, Davido, DJ Maphorisa, and El Grande Toto lead the nominations with five nods each. Shallipopi, Diamond Platnumz, and Tyla follow closely with four nominations.

4. Which Nigerian artists were nominated?

Burna Boy, Davido, Shallipopi, Rema, and Ayra Starr all earned multiple nominations, continuing Nigeria’s dominance in African music.

5. Why is Nigeria hosting AFRIMA 2025 crucial?

Nigeria remains a global hub for Afrobeats and African music culture. Hosting AFRIMA further highlights the country’s impact on shaping the continent’s sound and its growing influence worldwide.