The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) has officially released the nominee list for its 2025 edition, showcasing a vibrant mix of established stars and emerging talent from across the continent and the diaspora. This year’s awards have seen unprecedented participation, with a record-breaking 10,717 entries submitted.
A 13-member jury meticulously reviewed the entries over a period of ten days, ultimately selecting 343 nominees across 40 categories. The list highlights the diverse and evolving sound of African music, celebrating a wide range of genres and collaborations.
Leading the Nominations
Nigerian superstars Burna Boy and Davido are at the forefront of the nominations, each securing five nods. Both artists are up for the prestigious Album of the Year award, with Burna Boy nominated for “No Sign of Weakness” and Davido for “5ive.” Their hit songs are also in the running for Song of the Year and Best Collaboration.
Rising Nigerian artist Shallipopi received four nominations, including Artiste of the Year and Song of the Year for his track “Laho.” Ayra Starr also earned two nominations, joining Davido, Burna Boy, and Morocco’s El Grande Toto in the Artiste of the Year category.
Other top nominees with five nominations each include South Africa’s DJ Maphorisa, Morocco’s El Grande Toto, Senegal’s Mia Guissé, and Ghana’s Moliy. Notable artists with four nominations are Tanzania’s Diamond Platnumz, South Africa’s Tyla, and Eswatini’s Uncle Waffles.
The list also features prominent artists from the African diaspora, such as French-Malian singer Aya Nakamura, UK-based Darkoo, and Canadian-Congolese Deborah Lukalu.
The AFRIMA 2025 events will take place in Lagos from November 25 to 30, culminating in the grand finale awards ceremony on November 30.
