The 2025 All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) lit up Lagos on Sunday, January 11, 2026, with a striking display of style as African celebrities and guests graced the red carpet at the Eko Convention Centre.
While the ceremony celebrated musical excellence across the continent, the pre-event arrivals delivered a visual feast, spotlighting Africa’s rich fashion heritage fused with contemporary glamour.
Hosted by Nigerian influencer Enioluwa Adeoluwa and Kenyan actress Claudia Naisabwa, the red-carpet segment ran for three hours and attracted stars from music, film and entertainment.
Afrocentric fabrics, intricate beadwork and daring silhouettes dominated the evening, reflecting cultural pride, innovation and individuality.
Female celebrities led with bold fashion statements. Ghanaian singer Wendy Shay stepped out in a shimmering gold gown with detailed beadwork and a dramatic slit, projecting confidence and elegance befitting her award-winning night.
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Congolese star Cindy Le Coeur embraced refined glamour in an emerald green mermaid dress with cultural embroidery, subtly paying homage to her Central African roots.
Other standout moments included flowing yellow and neon green gowns that brought colour and movement to the carpet, while patterned ensembles inspired by kente and geometric patterns.
African prints highlighted evolving conversations around gender-fluid and body-positive fashion.
Tribal-inspired looks featuring feathers, beadwork and animal prints also made appearances, sparking admiration for authenticity.
The men matched the energy with tailored outfits infused with cultural detail. Nigerian superstar Rema opted for a clean, understated black on black fit.
Veteran Congolese musician Koffi Olomidé brought timeless sophistication with his white on white suit fit to the carpet.
Group appearances added to the spectacle, with coordinated traditional attires and duo poses celebrating unity, friendship and pan-African identity. Fashion commentators provided live analysis throughout, highlighting standout looks.
