Entertainment

21st Anniversary: Glo and Sponsorship of Superstars on African Voices Changemakers

Published

1 year ago

August 29, 2024

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Among the giant strides of Dr. Mike Adenuga’s Glo, and its effect on humanity, is the hype of African superstars from various entertainment sectors, giving them voices in a CNN International programme titled African Voices Changemakers.

So far, a sizable number of Africans of distinct innovations and class have been featured. They include but mo limited to:

Ghanaian songstress and composer, WENDY SHAY

Born on February 20, 1996, Shay was originally named Wendy Asiamah Addo. She is a former midwife and nurse who plays a distinctive kind of music that combines hip-hop, highlife, and Afrobeats. “Africa Money” and “Uber Driver” are some of her successful albums.

Among other honours, Wendy Shay, a brand ambassador for Ghana’s Youth Employment Agency (YEA), took the Ghana-Naija Showbiz Awards’ Best New Artiste of the Year title.

Afropop singer, ADEKUNLE ALMARUF KOSOKO, popularly known as ADEKUNLE GOLD, is another guest that has featured on the programme.

He was born on January 28^th, 1987, and reputed for his rich lyrics and unique rendition of his songs, He holds a Higher National Diploma in Arts and Design from the Lagos State Polytechnic. Gold hit the lime lights in 2015 after releasing his hit single “Sade” which was subsequently nominated for Best Alternative Song at the 2015 Headies. He later released 2 more singles, “Orente” and “Pick Up” singles following the success of ‘Sade’.

Gold progressed further in 2015 by signing a record deal with YBNL Nation and released his debut studio album “Gold”, which clinched number 7 on the Billboard World Albums chart.

Adekunle Gold is using his superstar status to raise awareness and rally support for those living with sickle cell, which he also battled behind closed doors for his entire life.

Gold who married a Nigerian songstress, Simi, in 2019, has received many awards including Best New Act Award of the Nigeria Entertainment Awards in 2015 and 2016, the City People Entertainment Awards for Album of the Year in 2016 and 2017; the Best African Music Artist of IARA in 2017 and Songwriter of the Year for The Headies, 2023.

There was also two Nigerian fashion icons, DUMEBI ANDREA IYAMAH (brand name Andrea Iyamah) and RUTH ERIKAN JAMES (brand name Veeke James).

Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, ANDREA IYAMAH is a fashion designer who is Canadian-Nigerian. Her fashion label, “Andrea Iyamah”, specializes in bridal, swimsuit, and ready-to-wear lines. She founded the company and serves as its CEO. Celebrities, including Michelle Obama, Kate Hudson, Gabrielle Union, Ciara, Issa Rae, and Genevieve Nnaji, have all donned her designs.

Iyamah, who was born on March 18, 1993, left her professional studies early at the age of 17 to start her fashion brand, Andrea Iyamah. The company is based in Toronto, and in 2017 it opened a flagship store in Lagos.

Bright colors and intricate patterns are hallmarks of current design, and Andrea Iyamah’s colorful swimwear combines African tradition with style.

VEEKEE JAMES, on the other hand, learned how to sew when she was still a young child from her mother Esther James, who was also involved in fashion design.

In fact, it was her mother who gave her the inspiration to launch “Veekee James”, her own clothing line, in 2019. Over time, she established two fashion brands: “Shoprikan” for ladies and “Veekee James Man” for men. With her magnificent gowns, which are renowned for their flawless craftsmanship and red carpet appeal, Veekee James transforms bespoke couture.

On the weekly feature show, CNN’s Larry Madowo delves into the world of the two Nigerian designers who are revolutionizing international fashion.

Star singer SIMI also featured on Glo-sponsored African Voices

Nigerian songster, songwriter and actress, Simisola Bolatito Kosoko, popularly known by her stage name, Simi

Simi was born on 19 April 1988 in Lagos as the last of four children. She started her career as a gospel singer, releasing her debut studio album in 2008, entitled “Ogaju”. She gained public recognition in 2014 after releasing “Tiff”, a song that was nominated for Best Alternative Song at The Headies 2015. Earlier in 2014, Simi signed a record deal with X3M Music, but left the label in May 2019 following the expiration of her contract.

She released her second studio album “Simisola” on September 8, 2017. Her third studio album “Omo Charlie Champagne”, Vol. 1 was released to coincide with her 31st birthday on April 19, 2019, after which she launched her record label Studio Brat in June of the same year.

The graduate of Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State was one of the top judges in Season 7 of the Nigerian idol TV show in 2022.

Simi who married a singer named Adekunle Gold in a private wedding ceremony on January 9, 2019 became a mother for the first time on the 30th of May 2020 when she gave birth to her daughter Adejare.

Ghana’s Afropop and reggae star, STONEBWOY, has also featured as special guest.

Livingstone Etse Satekla popularly known as Stonebwoy was born in Ashaiman, great Accra region of Ghana in on March 5, 1988. He started his musical career from primary school where his talents and abilities as a lyricist and scriptwriter were discovered at an early age.

Since then, he has never stopped singing both songs that he has written and composed and those by artistes he is influenced by In the Ghana music industry.

His current album, 5th Dimension, making waves in the country is an indication of how gifted and talented Stonebwoy is in his music career. The afropop, dancehall and reggae star is currently the CEO of Burniton Music Group and has been recognised and rewarded for his musical feats over the years.

In 2015, he won the duo of Vodafone Ghana Music Awards and Africa category at BET Awards. He also won two Billboard plaques as well as the Golden Club plaque from Boomplay after surpassing 100 million streams on the platform.

In 2019, he was listed as part of the 50 (fifty) young CEOs by YCEO and Avance media. The list honoured distinguished young individuals who are committed to providing solutions to some of Ghana’s problems.

In 2021, three albums in which Stonebwoy featured were nominated for the 2022 Grammy Awards. In 2022, Vodafone Ghana recognised him for using his creativity and music to promote the awareness of environmental and sustainability issues.

There was also Nigerian TOSIN OSHINOWO and South African, LUYANDA MPHALWA.

The two designers have successfully engendered social change while creating more inclusive places for people to live, work, and play.

Lagos-based OSHINOWO is, in addition to practising architecture, also a designer, creative entrepreneur, public speaker and author who weaves identity and culture into her work. She graduated from Kingston College, London, and equally holds a Master’s degree in Urban designs from Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London.

Oshinowo has numerous awards to her credit, including the 3rd City People Real Estate Awards for Architect of the Year 2017 and the Lord’s Achievers Awards for Creativity, in celebration of World Achievers Day 2019. She was among five finalists for the 2023 Diversity in Architecture Divia Awards. ^[

MPAHLWA on his part is an accomplished architect; one of South Africa’s earliest black students permitted to study the course. He uses his life’s journey as a blueprint to uplift those in need in post-apartheid South Africa.

He got a Masters in Architecture from the Technical University of Berlin and is the Director of DesignSpaceAfrica, a Cape Town-based architecture and design practice which he established in 2009.

Also, the flourishing career of Moroccan-American rapper, M.C FRENCH Montana was featured.

Originally named KARIM KHARBOUCH but widely addressed by his stage name, MC French Montana, the November 9, 1984 born hip-hop star so far boasts of 41 platinum singles.

He emigrated with his family to the United States at age 13. His career in hip-hop led him to found Coke Boys Records and its predecessor Cocaine City Records. He signed a joint-venture record deal with Puff Daddy’s Bad Boy Records and Rick Ross’s Maybach Music Group in 2012.

African VoicesChangemakers’ Larry Madowo who was with the multi-platinum selling artiste at his home in Los Angeles followed him to New York where he premiered his new documentary about his life from a struggling immigrant to an accomplishment rapper.

His hit track, “Quarter to Eight” was the first of manycollaborations with Rick Ross who is also a legendary musical artiste. He has either won or been nominated for several awards including the Best Club Banger Award which he won at the BET Hip Hop Awards in 2013. Also, in 2016, he was nominated twice in the Best Rap Song Category and in 2017 for the Best Rap Performance at the Grammy Awards.

The programme also featured Five renowned African musicians: Nigerian songwriter, singer and actor, CHIKE EZEKPEAZU OSEBUKA, popularly known as Chike, L.A.X., DAMILOLA AFOLABI OF STARBOY ENTERTAINMENT, talented singer and rapper, BLESSING AKIODE of Candy Bleakz fame, as well as EKEH CHIAKA JOSEPH (Majeeed,) and WENDY SHAY from Ghana.

Chike, a 31-year-old Glo ambassador, graduated from Covenant University in Nigeria. He gained fame through Project Fame West Africa and acting before pursuing music full-time. He won the 2020 City People Music Award for Album of the Year. L.A.X, is also 31 and he holds a Master’s degree from the University of Manchester and started his music career as a rapper.

Candy Bleakz on the other hand began her musical journey in 2013 in a group of three called Flybois and was signed to Chocolate City Music in 2020, while Majeeed, a Mass Communications graduate from Iscom University, Republic of Benin started his music career with two promotional singles. “Gee for Life” and “Rocky Lo”.

Also Wendy Shay, a Ghanaian honed her musical skills in Germany before launching her career with her debut single “Uber Driver” in 2018. Aged 28, she is a trained nurse.

The Programme shows on DSTV Channel 401 every Saturday at 8.30 a.m. and the show is repeated the same day at noon. Other repeats follow on Sunday at 4.30 a.m. and 7.00 p.m., on Monday at 4.00 a.m., and on Saturday next week at 8.30 a.m. and 12 noon. It will also air again on Sunday at 4.30 a.m. and 7.00 p.m. and on Monday at 4.00 a.m.

Entertainment

9th AFRIMA: Full List of Winners As Nigerian Stars Dominate Awards

Published

2 days ago

January 18, 2026

Eric

Nigeria’s Afrobeats star, Rema, stole the show at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) after beating heavyweights Davido, Amr Diab of Egypt, Burna Boy, South African superstars, DJ Maphorisa and Tyla to win the prestigious Artiste of the Year award.

The star-studded ceremony held at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos on Sunday, January 11, 2026, was organised by the Executive Committee of AFRIMA in conjunction with the African Union and the immense support of Lagos State government, which served as the official Host City of the 9th edition of Africa’s global music awards.

The well-attended event was a culmination of week-long activities which began with the Welcome Soiree hosted by the British High Commission on Wednesday, January 7, and followed by the Africa Music Business Summit on January 8. Ikeja City Mall, Alausa, was a beehive of activities on January 9, as more than 20,000 people thronged the venue for the AFRIMA Music Village before a highly successful Award ceremony on Sunday.

Speaking at the ceremony, Head of Culture Division at the African Union Commission, Angela Martins, said, “On behalf of the African Union Commission, I sincerely appreciate the Lagos State Government and, in particular, His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for the immense support given to the 9th AFRIMA. This partnership has demonstrated what is possible when government, continental institutions, and creative platforms collaborate. Our collaboration with AFRIMA has not only strengthened unity across Africa, but it has also elevated our culture, amplified African creativity and showcased Lagos as a true cultural capital of the continent.”

Rema’s victory in the top category crowned an exceptional year for the singer, and beyond the biggest prize of the night, he also won Best Male Artiste in Western Africa and Best African Artiste in African RnB & Soul.

Tanzania’s Juma Jux, Nigeria’s fast-rising star Shallipopi, as well as established acts Burna Boy and Yemi Alade, also recorded notable wins.

Juma Jux was named Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa, beating other top names from the region. He further celebrated success in the technical categories, as Ololufe, his collaboration with Diamond Platnumz, won Best African Video of the Year.

Street-pop sensation Shallipopi continued his impressive rise with two important awards. His hit song Laho won Song of the Year, one of the night’s most competitive categories. The remix of the song, featuring Burna Boy, also earned him Best African Collaboration, highlighting the song’s widespread appeal across the continent.

Although he missed out on the top individual prize, Burna Boy still made a strong statement. His album, No Sign of Weakness, was named Album of the Year.

Ivorian lyricist, Didi B, also made a strong statement on the night with the Best African Lyricist or Rapper Award, just as Ciza from South Africa walked away with the Breakout Artiste of the Year award.

Other highlights included Rwanda’s Element Eleéh and Mugisha Fred Robinson winning Producer of the Year, Senegal’s Bakhaw Dioum taking Songwriter of the Year, and Nigeria’s Chella winning African Fans’ Favourite.

Yemi Alade of Nigeria was also among the winners, taking home Best Soundtrack in a Movie, Series or Documentary for her song You Are from the animated series Iyanu.

Winners in other Regional categories are Singuila who won Best Male Artiste in Central Africa, while Cindy Le Coeur emerged as Best Female Artiste in Central Africa. Denise claimed Best Female Artiste in Eastern Africa, while Adviser (Mauritania) and Sherine of Egypt won the male and female awards in Northern Africa.

In Southern Africa, Yo Maps and Nontokozo Mkhize topped the male and female categories, while Wendy Shay emerged as Best Female Artiste in Western Africa.

See Full List of Winners

REGIONAL CATEGORY
Best Male Artist in Central Africa

* C4 Pedro (Angola)
* Eboloko (Gabon)
* Gims (DRC)
* Gerilson Insrael (Angola)
* Kocee (Cameroon)
* L’Oiseau Rare (Gabon)
* Fally Ipupa (DRC)
* Magasco (Cameroon)
* Singuila (The Congo) – Winner
* Werrason (DRC)

Best Female Artiste in Central Africa
* Anna Joyce (Angola)
* Blanche Bailly (Cameroon)
* Charlotte Dipanda (Cameroon)
* Cindy Le Coeur (DRC) -Winner
* Deborah Lukalu (DRC)
* Emma’a (Gabon)
* Jessy B (The Congo)
* Krys M (Cameroon)
* Liriany (Angola)
* Rebo (DRC)

Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa
* Bien (Kenya)
* Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
* Element Eleéh (Rwanda)
* Joshua Baraka (Uganda)
* Jux (Tanzania) – Winner
* Marioo (Tanzania)
* Mbosso (Tanzania)
* Bruce Melodie (Rwanda)
* Sat-B (Burundi)
* Yared Negu (Ethiopia)

Best Female Artiste in Eastern Africa
* Abigail Chams (Tanzania)
* Bridget Blue (Kenya)
* Denise (Madagascar)- Winner
* Haleluya Tekletsadik (Ethiopia)
* Lady Jaydee (Tanzania)
* Mahlet Wendimu (Ethiopia)
* Salemia (Ethiopia)
* Weeha (Ethiopia)
* Winnie Nwagi (Uganda)
* Zuchu (Tanzania)

Best Male Artiste in Northern Africa
* A.L.A. (Tunisia)
* Adviser (Mauritania) – Winner
* Amr Diab (Egypt)
* Cheb Momo (Algeria)
* El Grande Toto (Morocco)
* Hamza Namira (Egypt)
* Lbenj (Morocco)
* Mohamed Ramadan (Egypt)
* Stormy (Morocco)
* Wegz (Egypt)

Best Female Artiste in Northern Africa
* Chirine Lajmi (Tunisia)
* Inez (Morocco)
* Jannat (Egypt)
* Jaylann (Morocco)
* Manal (Morocco)
* Meryem Aboulouafa (Morocco)
* Sherine (Egypt)- Winner
* Zina Daoudia (Morocco)

Best Male Artiste in Southern Africa
* Anderson Mário (Mozambique)
* Jah Prayzah (Zimbabwe)
* Manana (Eswatini)
* Nasty C (South Africa)
* Teddy Makadi (Malawi)
* Tyler ICU (South Africa)
* Wanitwamos (South Africa)
* Yo Maps (Zambia) – Winner
* Zeze Kingston (Malawi)
* Kazba De Small (South Africa)

Best Female Artiste in Southern Africa
* Babalwa M (South Africa)
* Hanna (Zimbabwe)
* Makhadzi (South Africa)
* Nkosazana Daughter (South Africa)
* Nontokozo Mkhize (South Africa) – Winner
* Sha Sha (Zimbabwe)
* Temwah (Malawi)
* Tyla (South Africa)
* Uncle Waffles (Eswatini)
* Zee Nxumalo (South Africa)

Best Male Artiste in Western Africa
* Asake (Nigeria)
* Axel Merryl (Benin)
* Black Sherif (Ghana)
* Burna Boy (Nigeria)
* Davido (Nigeria)
* Didi B (Côte d’Ivoire)
* Djodje (Cape Verde)
* Rema (Nigeria) – Winner
* VJ (Senegal)
* Wizkid (Nigeria)

Best Female Artiste in Western Africa
* Amaarae (Ghana)
* Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
* Djelykaba Bintou (Guinea)
* Josey (Côte d’Ivoire)
* Mariam Ba Lagaré (Mali)
* Mia Guissé (Senegal)
* Moliy (Ghana)
* Tiwa Savage (Nigeria)
* Viviane Chidid (Senegal)
* Wendy Shay (Ghana)- Winner

CONTINENTAL CATEGORY
Best Male Artiste in African Inspirational Music
* Christian Mukuna (DRC)
* Djunny Beatz (Mozambique)
* Gaise Baba (Nigeria)
* Israel Mbonyi (Rwanda)
* Jah Prayzah (Zimbabwe)
* Joel Lwaga (Tanzania)
* Kocee (Cameroon)
* Lawrence Oyor (Nigeria)
* Milo (Côte d’Ivoire) – Winner
* Sjava (South Africa)

Best Female Artiste in African Inspirational Music
* Ada Ehi (Nigeria)
* Choisie Basolua (DRC)
* Krys M (Cameroon)
* Martha Mwaipaja (Tanzania)
* Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria)
* Morijah (Côte d’Ivoire) – Winner
* Nontokozo Mkhize (South Africa)
* Roseline Layo (Côte d’Ivoire)
* Vestine & Dorcas (Rwanda)

Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African Jazz
* Adrian Younge & Ali Shaheed Muhammad (Ghana)
* Haddinqo (Ethiopia) – Winner
* Mádé Kuti (Nigeria)
* Rorisang Sechele (South Africa)
* Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane (South Africa)
* The Cavemen (Nigeria)
* Alune Wade (Senegal)
* Nomfundo Xaluva (South Africa)
* Kyle Shepherd Trio (South Africa)

Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African Pop
* Adviser (Mauritania)
* Amadeus (Senegal)
* Amr Diab (Egypt)
* Burna Boy (Nigeria)
* Gims (Congo DRC)
* Lbenj (Morocco)
* Manamba Kanté (Guinea) – Winner
* Seyi Vibez (Nigeria)
* Mohamed Ramadan (Egypt)
* Saad Lmjarred (Morocco)

Best Artiste, Duo or Group in African Contemporary
* Fireboy DML (Nigeria)
* Axel Merryl (Benin) – Winner
* Espe Bass (Congo B)
* Bien (Kenya)
* Jaylann (Morocco)
* Kizz Daniel, Angélique Kidjo & Johnny Drille (Nigeria)
* Mbosso (Tanzania)
* Ferre Gola & Rayvanny (DRC)
* Didine Canon 16 (Algeria)
* Wendy Shay (Ghana)

Best Soundtrack in Movie, Series, or Documentary
* Igho’le Trap Mix Version (“To Kill a Monkey”: Series) – Oscar Heman-Ackah (Ghana)
* El Ma2as (“The Start”: Film) – Tamer Hosny, Reda Elbahrawy (Egypt)
* You Are (“Iyanu”: The Animated Series) – Yemi Alade (Nigeria) – Winner
* Timpi Tampa (“Timpi Tampa”: The Film) – Ismaël Lo (Senegal)
* Tori Ife (“Seven Doors”: Series) – Tolu Obanro (Nigeria)
* Saatte Ragouj (“The Last of the Mohicans” Film) – Kafon (Tunisia)

Songwriter of the Year
* Bakhaw Dioum – “Choix” (Mia Guissé ft. Wally B. Seck) (Senegal) – Winner
* Emel, Jehanny Beth & Camille Berthomier – “Fall in the Light” (Tunisia)
* Emma’a – “Trop d’amour” (Gabon)
* Emmanuel Ayobami Alli-Hakeem – “Za” (Anendlessocean) (Nigeria)
* Ferre Gola – “Amour Illusoire” (DRC)
* Mohammed Ismail Sharrif – “Rebel Music” (Black Sherif) (Ghana)
* Mugisha Fred Robinson – “Tombé” (Element Eleéh) (Rwanda)
* Olamide Adedeji – “Hassibunallah” (Olamide) (Nigeria)
* Prince Omoferi & Nwamu Francis Chukwudubem – “It Hurts” (Johnny Drille & Don Jazzy) (Nigeria)
* Victor Ngatuvese Kaune – “Oputuri ‘Queens’” (One Blood Namibia) (Namibia)

Best Global Act
* Rosé (South Korea/USA)
* Joé Dwèt File (Haiti)
* Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars (USA)
* Fantomel & Kate Linn (Romania)
* Drake (Canada)
* Alex Warren (USA)
* Doechii (USA)
* Ed Sheeran (UK)
* Yung Bredda (Trinidad & Tobago)

African Fans’ Favourite
* Ali Jita (Nigeria)
* Barnaba (Tanzania)
* BNXN & Rema (Nigeria)
* Chella (Nigeria) – Winner
* Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)
* Innoss’b (DRC)
* Kizz Daniel (Nigeria)
* Parazar (Algeria)
* Faceless (Nigeria)
* Tul8te (Egypt)

Best African DJ
* DJ Malvado (Angola)
* DJ Maphorisa (South Africa)
* DJ Moh Green (Algeria)
* DJ Mombochi (The Congo)
* DJ Tunez (Nigeria)
* DJ YK Mule (Nigeria)
* Kelvin Momo (South Africa)
* Oscar Mbo (South Africa)
* Uncle Waffles (Eswatini)
* Woodblock Djs (South Africa)

Producer of the Year
* Beneth Seraphin Akatché Koffi (Senegal)
* Butternut, Xolani Majoz (South Africa)
* Dina One (Mali)
* Element Eleéh & Mugisha Fred Robinson (Rwanda)- Winner
* Jazzworx (South Africa)
* Progrex (Nigeria)
* DaVinci (Angola)
* Tempoe (Nigeria)
* Themba Sekowe, Gomolemo Joy Gumede, Kabelo Motha (South Africa)

Album of the Year
* Ebtadena – Amr Diab (Egypt)
* No Sign of Weakness – Burna Boy (Nigeria)- Winner
* 5ive – Davido (Nigeria)
* Diyilem & Bazarhoff: Genius – Didi B (Côte d’Ivoire)
* Ngomoya – DJ Maphorisa & XDuppy (South Africa)
* Salgoat – El Grande Toto (Morocco)
* Big Aka 4 Aka Kai – Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
* Thato Ya Modimo – Kelvin Momo (South Africa)
* Idrache (Traces of the Past) – Tinariwen (Mali)

Best African Video of the Year
* “Rebel” – Black Sherif (Ghana)
* “Meta” – Nomcebo Zikode & Sofiya Nzau (South Africa)
* “Ki Lo Wa Wa” – Yemi Alade (Nigeria)
* “Timpi Tampa” – Ismaël Lo (Senegal)
* “Tori Ife” – Tolu Obanro (Nigeria)
* “Ova” – Mbosso (Tanzania) –
* “Ololufe” – Juma Jux & Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)- Winner
* “Shaolin” – Seyi Vibez (Nigeria)
* “Stk Stk” – Dizzy Dros, Kekra & Norfafrica (Morocco)

Song of the Year
* “Isaka (6AM)” – Ciza, Jazzworx & Thukuthela (South Africa)
* “Bengicela” – Mawhoo Gl Ceejay & Thukuthela (South Africa)
* “Choix” – Mia Guissé (Senegal)
* “Diplomatico” – El Grande Toto (Morocco)
* “Kaay Waay” – VJ (Senegal)
* “Laho” – Shallipopi (Nigeria) – Winner
* “Ololufe Mi” – Jux & Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
* “Push 2 Start” – Tyla (South Africa)
* “Shake it to the Max” – Moliy, Shenseea, Skillibeng & Silent Addy (Ghana)
* “With You” – Davido (Nigeria)

Best African Dance/Choreography
* Jaylann – “Ha Wlidi” (Morocco)
* Lady Ponce – “Je veux danser” (Cameroon)
* Rebo – “Mobambo” (DRC)
* Serge Beynaud – “Taper Dedans” (Côte d’Ivoire)
* Toofan – “Deodorant” (Togo)
* Tyla – “Push 2 Start” (South Africa)
* Uncle Waffles & Royal Musiq – “Zenzele” (Eswatini)
* Weeha – “Dimama” (Ethiopia) – Winner
* Werrason – “Tout se paie ici bas” (DRC)
* Wizkid – “Kese” (Nigeria)

Best African Act Reggae, Ragga & Dancehall
* Magasco – “Dirty Whine” (Cameroon)
* Moliy, Shenseea, Skillibeng & Silent Addy – “Shake it to the Max” (Ghana)
* Ruger & Kranium – “Dudu” (Nigeria)
* Sean Morgan – “Vuu” (Malawi)
* Black Sherif – “Rebel Music” (Ghana)
* Takana Zion – “On My Eyes” (Guinea) – Winner
* Tiwa Savage – “Forgiveness” (Nigeria)
* Wakadinli – “Kum Baba” (Kenya)
* Yemi Alade – “Baddie” (Nigeria)
* Iyani, Mwanaa & Cedo – “Kifo cha Mende” (Kenya)

Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African Rock
* Laeke – “Eskeneka” (Ethiopia)
* Izlan – “Amezyan” (Algeria)- Winner
* Franck Biyong – “Struggle 4 Money” (Cameroon)
* Rash – “Do or Die” (Kenya)
* Mdou Moctar – “Imouhar” (Niger)
* Chrissy Zebby Tembo & The Ngozi Family – “I Am Not Made of Iron” (Zambia)

Best Artiste, Duo or Group in African Traditional
* Big Zulu – “Ng’sale Nobani” (South Africa)
* Chirine Lajmi – “Echeh Echeh” (Tunisia)
* Lady Ponce – “Je veux danser” (Cameroon)
* Lama Shreif – “Jayek Lahsseb” (Tunisia)
* Larry Gaaga, Flavour & Queen Theresa Onuorah – “Obodo” (Nigeria)
* Sona Tata – “Nainai Bana” (Guinea)
* Stonebwoy – “Jejereje” (Ghana)
* Tinariwen – “Amoss Idjraw” (Mali)
* Tonton Pal & Binguini Bakhaga – “Couronne” (Mali)
* Veronica Adane – “Kante Lela” (Ethiopia)- Winner

Best African Collaboration
* Blanche Bailly & Lady Ponce – “Lève toi” (Cameroon)
* Goon Flavour, Master Kg & Eemoh – “Ngishutheni” (South Africa)
* Mia Guissé ft. Wally Seck – “Choix” (Senegal)
* Moliy, Silent Addy, Skillibeng & Shenseea – “Shake It to the Max” (Ghana)
* Paki Chenzu ft. Himra – “Assaut” (Togo/Côte d’Ivoire)
* Shallipopi ft. Burna Boy – “Laho” (Nigeria) – Winner
* Uncle Waffles ft. Cowboii, Royal Musiq, Uncool MC & Xduppy – “Zenzele” (Eswatini)
* Davido ft. Omah Lay – “With You” (Nigeria)
* Mawhoo, GL Ceejay & Thukuthela ft. Jazzworx – “Bengicela” (South Africa)
* Benny Adam & Khadija El Warzazia – “Mok Ya Mok” (Morocco)

Most Promising Artiste of the Year
* Cysoul (Cameroon)
* Joshua Baraka (Uganda)
* King Luca (Cameroon)
* L’Oiseau Rare (Gabon)
* Lwah Ndlunkulu (South Africa)
* Massamba Amadeus (Senegal)
* Qing Madi, Valorant (Nigeria) – Winner
* Rym (Morocco)
* Kunmie (Nigeria)
* Fola (Nigeria)

Artiste of the Year
* Amr Diab (Egypt)
* Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
* Burna Boy (Nigeria)
* Davido (Nigeria)
* DJ Maphorisa (South Africa)
* El Grande Toto (Morocco)
* Fally Ipupa (DRC)
* Jux (Tanzania)
* Rema (Nigeria) – Winner
* Shallipopi (Nigeria)
* Tyla (South Africa)

Breakout Artiste of the Year
* Blaq Major (South Africa)
* Ciza (South Africa) – Winner
* Eboloko (Gabon)
* Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
* Marioo (Tanzania)
* Mawhoo (South Africa)
* Moliy (Ghana)
* Shallipopi (Nigeria)
* Trap King (Algeria)
* VJ (Senegal)

Best African Lyricist Rapper
* ALA (Tunisia)
* Didi B (Côte d’Ivoire) – Winner
* Jessy B (Congo B)
* Klassafan le Melangeur (Guinea)
* Nasty C & Usimamane (South Africa)
* Nyashinski (Kenya)
* Reminisce (Nigeria)
* Sarkodie (Ghana)
* Switch (Libya)
* Yacou B OG (Mali)

Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African Hiphop
* ALA ft. Mootjeyek (Tunisia)
* Cassper Nyovest (South Africa)
* Eboloko (Gabon)
* El Grande Toto (Morocco)
* Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
* Phyno (Nigeria) – Winner
* Nasty C & Usimamane (South Africa)
* Odumodublvck (Nigeria)
* Sarkodie (Ghana)
* Suspect 95 (Côte d’Ivoire)

Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African RnB & Soul
* Bensoul & V- Be (Kenya)
* Big Zulu ft. Malungelo (South Africa)
* Braye (Nigeria)
* Calema (Sao Tome)
* Emma’a (Gabon)
* Kunmie (Nigeria)
* Manal (Morocco)
* Naledi Aphiwe & Mawelele (South Africa)
* Rema (Nigeria) – Winner
* Wegz ft. Tayc (Egypt)

Best African Duo, Group or Band
* Babylone (Algeria)
* Blaq Diamond (South Africa)
* Celema (Sao Tome & Principe)
* Team Paiya (Côte d’Ivoire) – Winner
* The Cavemen (Nigeria)
* Tinariwen (Mali)
* Toofan (Togo)
* Vestine & Dorcas (Rwanda)
* Wapendwa Muziki (Kenya)
* We Are Nubia (Kenya)

See Full List of Winners

REGIONAL CATEGORY
Best Male Artist in Central Africa

Best African DJ
* DJ Malvado (Angola)
* DJ Maphorisa (South Africa)
* DJ Moh Green (Algeria) – Winner
* DJ Mombochi (The Congo)
* DJ Tunez (Nigeria)
* DJ YK Mule (Nigeria)
* Kelvin Momo (South Africa)
* Oscar Mbo (South Africa)
* Uncle Waffles (Eswatini)
* Woodblock Djs (South Africa)

Entertainment

Glo Raises Bar in Mobile Entertainment with Launch of New ‘Travel Saga’

Published

6 days ago

January 14, 2026

Eric

Globacom has raised the bar in mobile entertainment with the launch of Travel Saga, a premium, high-octane gaming experience now live and available exclusively to Glo subscribers.

Travel Saga is a richly woven, story-driven role-playing adventure crafted to deliver the rush, depth and competitive intensity associated with some of the world’s most celebrated action titles. Meticulously optimized for mobile devices, the game translates a console-grade experience onto data-enabled handsets, redefining mobile gaming as a fully-fledged digital battlefield.

At its core, Travel Saga propels players through fast-paced virtual odysseys set against iconic global backdrops. Gamers are plunged into relentless missions, pitched battles and ever-expanding storylines, where skill, strategy and stamina determine who ascends the ranks to emerge as a true war hero within a vibrant, constantly evolving gaming universe.

Beyond the thrill of combat, subscribers are invited to explore diverse destinations, engage in adrenaline-charged challenges and compete fiercely for in-app rewards, including victory badges and points. Each level deepens the immersion, sustaining momentum and excitement with every encounter and achievement.

The service is offered on flexible subscription plans, priced at ₦100 per day and ₦250 per week, with the convenience of one-time or auto-renewal options. Customers can subscribe instantly by dialing *70021#, unlocking immediate access to the action.

With Travel Saga, Glo once again affirms its commitment to innovation and premium digital experiences, placing world-class gaming within effortless reach of its subscribers delivering unbroken action, adventure and competition, powered seamlessly by the Glo network.

Entertainment

Nollywood Actress Allwell Ademola Dies at 43

Published

3 weeks ago

December 27, 2025

Eric

The Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, has been thrown into mourning following the sudden and tragic passing of actress and producer Allwell Ademola.

The 43-year-old actress reportedly died on Saturday, sending shockwaves through the entertainment community and her legion of fans.

According to multiple reports from within the film industry, the tragic event unfolded at Ademola’s residence, where she is said to have suffered a sudden heart attack.

She was swiftly rushed to a nearby hospital, but medical efforts were unable to save her life. The unexpected nature of her death, at such a relatively young age, has been a primary source of the widespread shock and disbelief.

News of her passing ignited an immediate and emotional outpouring of tributes on social media from heartbroken colleagues, highlighting the deep bonds within the Nollywood community and the high esteem in which she was held.

Fellow actress Faithia Williams expressed her raw grief on Instagram, writing: “Haaaa. This hit me so bad. Eniobanke. Allahu Akbar..Allwell.” Her post encapsulated the stunned reaction of many.

Actress Mide Martins marked the day as a “BLACK SATURDAY……” on Facebook, accompanying a photo of Ademola with the anguished plea, “This is not fair. May God forgive your shortcomings Allwell.”

Actor Damola Olatunji shared a somber, philosophical note with a candlelight image, captioning it simply, “Life is a mirage.”

The disbelief was palpable in the reaction of actress Bidemi Kosoko, who fervently rejected the initial reports: “No way. No, no,, no. Ko possible ooo. This isn’t true. God forbid, in Jesus’ name… I refuse to accept this one Lai Lai God forbid… Just reply to my message, abeg Oremi/ aunty mi. I will wait patiently for your reply.”

Allwell Ademola was a prominent figure in the Yoruba-language sector of Nollywood, known for her compelling performances and her work behind the camera as a producer.

Her sudden departure has left a significant void in the industry, prompting a period of collective mourning and reflection on her contributions to Nigerian cinema. Details regarding funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.