Nigerian rapper-actor Falz and French-Senegalese media personality Liliane Maroune will host the 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), organizers announced.
The five-day celebration runs from January 7-11, 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria, presented by AFRIMA’s International Executive Committee with the African Union Commission and Lagos State Government.
Falz joins an elite group as only the second Nigerian to host AFRIMA’s main stage, following music icon 2Baba, who co-hosted the 2014 inaugural ceremony. The awards have previously featured hosts from across the continent and diaspora, including Bonang Matheba, Akon, Pearl Thusi, and Ahmed Sylla.
The multi-talented Falz has earned recognition for socially conscious music and acclaimed film performances in productions like New Money, Brotherhood, and Chief Daddy. His combination of lyrical depth and commanding stage presence has established him as a leading voice in African entertainment.
Maroune, an actress and television host of Senegalese, Lebanese, and Mauritanian heritage, brings international appeal through her work in West African series including Emprises and Coeurs Brisés. She hosts Wakhtane Ak Lily, a talk show featuring conversations with prominent African artists.
AFRIMA’s Regional Director for Central Africa, Nde Ndifonka, praised the pairing: “FalzTheBahdGuy brings intelligence, strong ideas and a powerful African voice that connects with both young and old audiences. Liliane embodies elegance, diversity and the modern African woman with international influence.”
Voting continues on the AFRIMA website across 39 award categories.
The program begins January 7 with a Welcome Soirée at the British Deputy High Commission House, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit on January 8 at Eko Convention Centre. The AFRIMA Music Village takes place January 9 at Ikeja City Mall, with the Nominees and Industry Party scheduled for January 10.
The main ceremony airs January 11 from Eko Convention Centre, with red carpet coverage starting at 3:00 p.m. WAT. The broadcast reaches audiences in over 84 countries globally.
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