The battle for continental supremacy is back on as Burna Boy and Davido lead the nominations for the 2025 All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), each bagging five nods in what promises to be one of the most competitive editions yet.
Both Nigerian megastars are nominated in heavyweight categories including Album of the Year and Song of the Year.
Burna Boy’s critically acclaimed No Sign of Weakness and Davido’s latest project, 5ive, which has been winning hearts across Africa, are set to go head-to-head.
The pair will also clash in the Collaboration of the Year category, rekindling the ever-present debate among fans over who truly holds the crown as Africa’s biggest export.
But they are not alone in the spotlight.
South African powerhouse DJ Maphorisa matched the Nigerian giants with five nominations of his own, including Best African DJ and Album of the Year, positioning himself as a dark horse who could easily upset the fan favorites.
East Africa’s pride, Diamond Platnumz, secured four nominations, maintaining his stronghold as Tanzania’s leading star.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s rising street sensation Shallipopi made a statement with four nominations, including Best Nigerian Artist, proving he’s no longer just a newcomer but a force to be reckoned with.
Other notable contenders include South Africa’s Tyla, Tanzania’s Juma Jux, and Nigeria’s very own Rema and Ayra Starr each grabbing three or more nominations and adding even more firepower to the already stacked competition.
With the heavyweights of African music now set on a collision course, the 2025 AFRIMA Awards are shaping up to be a blockbuster showdown one that will not only crown winners but also spark fresh conversations about who truly dominates the African soundscape.

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