FalzTheBahdGuy And Liliane Maroune Set To Electrify AFRIMA 2026 Stage As Hosts

According to Ireporter Online, the ninth edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) will be hosted by Nigerian rapper and actor FalzTheBahdGuy alongside French-Senegalese actress and media personality Liliane Maroune. The awards ceremony, organized by the International Executive Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission and the Lagos State government, is scheduled to take place in Lagos, Nigeria, from January 7 to 11, 2026.

With this appointment, FalzTheBahdGuy becomes the second Nigerian to host the prestigious event, following music legend 2Baba, who co-hosted the inaugural edition in 2014. Over the years, AFRIMA has featured an impressive roster of hosts from across Africa and the diaspora, including Akon, Pearl Thusi, Michael Blackson, and Ahmed Sylla.

FalzTheBahdGuy, a multi-award-winning musician and actor, is celebrated for his thought-provoking lyrics, commanding stage presence, and impactful social commentary. He has also made notable contributions to African cinema, starring in films such as New Money, Brotherhood, 10 Days in Sun City, and Chief Daddy.

Liliane Maroune, renowned for her work as an actress, model, and TV host, brings international appeal and a strong African identity to the AFRIMA stage. She has gained recognition for her roles in West African television series like Emprises and Coeurs Brisés, as well as hosting the talk show Wakhtane Ak Lily, where she engages with leading African creatives.

AFRIMA Regional Director for Central Africa, Nde Ndifonka, praised the duo, stating, “FalzTheBahdGuy brings intelligence, strong ideas, and a powerful African voice that resonates with audiences of all ages. Liliane embodies elegance, diversity, and the contemporary African woman with international influence. Together, they showcase the richness of African music and culture.”

The build-up to the ninth AFRIMA has generated widespread excitement, with fans worldwide voting in 39 award categories on the official AFRIMA website. The five-day event will feature a Welcome Soirée at the British Deputy High Commission House on January 7, the Africa Music Business Summit at the Eko Convention Centre on January 8, and the AFRIMA Music Village at Ikeja City Mall on January 9. A Nominees and Industry Party will take place on January 10, leading to the Main Awards Show on January 11 at the Eko Convention Centre, with the red carpet starting at 3 p.m. (WAT). The ceremony will be broadcast live to over 84 countries.