President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian music stars who shone brightly at the 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), describing their achievements as a testament to the nation’s rich creative talent.

The awards ceremony, held on Sunday at the Eko Hotels Convention Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, saw global Afrobeats sensation Rema dominate the night with three major honours – Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African Artiste in RnB and Soul.

Grammy winner Burna Boy clinched Album of the Year for his project No Sign of Weakness and also shared the Best African Collaboration award with Shallipopi, who separately emerged winner of the coveted Song of the Year with his hit track Laho.

Other notable winners included Qing Madi, Yemi Alade, Chella, as well as industry veterans Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the victories had once again placed Nigeria on the continental map of cultural excellence.

Tinubu noted that the feats reflected the creativity, resilience and enterprise of Nigerian youth, adding that the music industry had become a powerful instrument for projecting the country’s identity globally.

“I warmly congratulate our outstanding Nigerian artistes for their remarkable achievements at AFRIMA,” the President said.

“Your success is a proud moment for our nation and a clear reflection of the depth of talent that defines Nigeria’s music industry. You have projected our culture, amplified the voice of our youths and strengthened Nigeria’s creative identity across Africa and beyond.”

He urged the artistes to remain worthy ambassadors and continue using their platforms to inspire unity and hope.

The President assured that his administration would sustain investments in the creative sector, stressing that music, film and fashion possess enormous potential to create jobs, attract tourism and boost the economy.

“Culture is the soul of a people, and music remains one of Africa’s strongest voices. Our government will continue to empower young Nigerians and strengthen the creative economy,” he added.

Tinubu was honoured in 2015 with the Pillar of Art and Culture in Africa award by the African Union Commission and AFRIMA’s international committee.