Tinubu Backs AFRIMA 2025 as Federal Government Sets Up Planning Committee

President Bola Tinubu has given his support for the upcoming 2025 All Africa Music Awards, which will take place in Lagos from November 25 to 30.

A statement released to Saturday PUNCH revealed that the event carries the theme “Unstoppable Africa.”

Tinubu’s endorsement was a reply to a letter from the African Union Commission that sought Nigeria’s involvement in this notable awards ceremony.

On Wednesday, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, established an inter-ministerial Local Organising Committee. This committee will collaborate with the host city, the African Union, and the International Committee of AFRIMA to "organize and execute a memorable event.”

The Local Organising Committee was formed during a session at the ministry's Abuja headquarters.

As stated, the committee's members include representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, the Nigerian Film Corporation, and the National Film and Video Censors Board.

Additionally, members from the Federal Ministry of Interior, the National Council for Arts and Culture, and representatives from AFRIMA and the African Union Commission are also part of the team. During the inauguration, the minister expressed that AFRIMA is in line with President Tinubu's goal of using the creative sector as a significant factor for economic development, national progress, and social change.

Musawa noted, “This event goes beyond awards; it serves as a vital platform to generate jobs, enhance tourism, highlight African talent, and share our uplifting stories through music with the world. We are thrilled to collaborate with the Lagos State government, the AFRIMA team, and the African Union to create a world-class event.”

In his remarks, Mike Dada, the President and Executive Producer of AFRIMA, thanked the Federal Government for its prompt response and strong support.

“We appreciate President Tinubu for his quick and forward-thinking endorsement of AFRIMA 2025. This is more than just an event approval. It clearly shows that the Nigerian government understands the importance of the culture and creative industry (CCI) and its ability to foster unity and prosperity throughout Africa,” Dada stated.

He also praised the Lagos State government for agreeing to be the official host city and for its contributions and partnership with the creative sector.

“Nigeria has consistently been a cultural and creative leader. With this backing, we believe that this year's AFRIMA will be a remarkable celebration of African talent and creativity on a global stage. It’s wonderful that the Federal Government is involved, and we are pleased that the Minister emphasized our teamwork with Lagos State to ensure the best-ever AFRIMA,” Dada remarked.