The countdown to Africa’s biggest music celebration has officially begun, and Nigerian artistes are once again dominating the spotlight.
The 2025 All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) nomination list has been unveiled, with heavyweights Burna Boy and Davido leading the pack.
Both global superstars secured five nominations each, placing them firmly at the heart of the competition. Burna Boy’s smash project ‘No Sign of Weakness’ and Davido’s acclaimed album ‘5ive’ were nominated for the highly coveted Album of the Year category.
Their reach also extends into Song of the Year and Best Collaboration, thanks to chart-topping singles that have defined the year in African music.
They are joined at the top by South African DJ and producer DJ Maphorisa, who also bagged five nominations, including Album of the Year and Best African DJ. Moroccan rap star El Grande Toto matched their streak with five nods for his viral hits ‘Salgoat’ and ‘Diplomatico’.
Nigeria’s fast-rising street-pop sensation Shallipopi continues his meteoric rise with four nominations, including Song of the Year and Artiste of the Year. His recognition cements the new wave of street music making waves globally.
Beyond Nigeria, East African powerhouse Diamond Platnumz holds strong with four nominations, while South African breakout star Tyla secured four spots, following her global acclaim. Tanzanian crooner Juma Jux impressed with three nominations, including Song of the Year for his heartfelt ballad ‘Ololufe Mi’.
Other Nigerian stars Rema and Ayra Starr also pulled in three nominations each, reinforcing Nigeria’s continued dominance on the continental music stage.
In May, organizers announced that Nigeria would host the 2025 AFRIMA, making this year’s edition even more significant for the country’s thriving music industry. With a stacked lineup of nominees, all eyes are now set on who will walk away with the prestigious awards.
