NIGMA Returns in Grand Style As 5th Edition Celebrates Gospel Music, Faith And Creative Excellence

After a prolonged hiatus, the Nigeria International Gospel Music Awards (NIGMA) has made a triumphant return, staging its highly anticipated 5th Edition on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the prestigious Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.

The landmark return brought together an impressive cross-section of Nigeria’s gospel music, Christian, film and entertainment communities, in an evening dedicated to celebrating talent, excellence, creativity, faith and impact.

A GRAND RETURN

The 5th Edition marked a significant new chapter in the history of NIGMA, which returned after a period away from the public stage.

The Muson Centre was filled to capacity as gospel artistes, ministers, actors, filmmakers, entertainment executives, industry stakeholders and distinguished guests gathered to celebrate the achievements and contributions of individuals making a difference through gospel music and Christian entertainment.

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere reflected the significance of the occasion. The red carpet provided a glamorous opening to the evening, while the impressive stage design, lighting, sound and entertainment created a fitting environment for the return of the awards.

NOLLYWOOD AND THE CREATIVE INDUSTRY SHOW SUPPORT

One of the major highlights of the evening was the strong representation from Nollywood and Nigeria’s wider creative industry.

Among the notable personalities in attendance were veteran actor and filmmaker Fred Amata, actor and producer Emeka Ossai, veteran actors Segun Arinze, actor Tony Akposeri, and Kepy Ekpeyong Bassey, Nollywood producer and writer Lilian Amah.

The gathering also attracted respected filmmakers and industry leaders including Andy Boyo, Nollywood producer and director; Mahmood Ali-Balogun, renowned producer/director and Chairman of the Audio-Visual Rights Society of Nigeria (AVRS); and Zik Zulu Okafor, acclaimed Nollywood producer and writer.

Also present was Shaibu Husseini, Director-General of the Nigerian Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), alongside other notable figures from Nigeria’s creative and entertainment ecosystem.

Also present was the legendary smooth soul singer Alex O and On air personality, Cordelia Okpei. Kingdom Entrepreneurs; Dr Tim Ogboruche and Tunde Praise.

Further strengthening the connection between music and film were Abay Esho, Nollywood producer, director and singer, and veteran producer and singer Mike Nliam.

GOSPEL COMMUNITY TAKES CENTRE STAGE

While the event attracted personalities from across the entertainment industry, the heart of the evening remained firmly rooted in gospel music and Christian creativity.

Gospel ministers and artistes, including Tkeyz, Elwoma and Ehiliz, were among those who added their presence to the celebration.

The evening also featured the presence of celebrated Nigerian rapper Vector the Viper, demonstrating the ability of music to transcend genres and connect different audiences.

Popular gospel singer and comedian Akpororo also brought his distinctive blend of music, humour and entertainment to the celebration, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the evening.

MORE THAN AN AWARDS CEREMONY

Beyond the glamour, performances and star-studded attendance, the 5th Edition of NIGMA carried a deeper significance for its organisers.

For the CEO of the awards, Kingsley Omoefe and organising team, the successful return of the awards represented a testimony of faith, perseverance, resilience and God’s faithfulness.

The CEO expressed immense joy and gratitude to God for making the 5th Edition possible, while appreciating the guests, nominees, award recipients, partners, gospel ministers, artistes, entertainment industry stakeholders, media and everyone who contributed to the success of the event.

The return also reaffirmed NIGMA’s vision of providing a credible platform for recognising individuals and organisations whose work continues to contribute to the growth, development and influence of gospel music and Christian entertainment in Nigeria.

BUILDING A BRIDGE BETWEEN FAITH AND ENTERTAINMENT

The strong presence of Nollywood alongside gospel musicians and ministers also highlighted the increasingly important relationship between faith, music, film and the broader creative economy.

The 5th Edition demonstrated that gospel entertainment can provide a platform where spirituality, creativity, culture and professional excellence come together to engage audiences and celebrate positive impact.

As NIGMA begins its next chapter, the organisers are looking ahead with renewed commitment to building a platform that not only honours excellence but also inspires the next generation of gospel artistes, ministers and Christian creatives.

NIGMA IS BACK

The successful staging of the 5th Edition of the Nigeria International Gospel Music Awards marks the beginning of a renewed chapter for the awards.

After a long hiatus, NIGMA has returned with a renewed sense of purpose—to celebrate faith, honour excellence, recognise impact and promote the power of gospel music and Christian creativity.

For everyone who gathered at the Muson Centre on August 9, one message was unmistakable:

And this time, it returns with a renewed vision, a stronger community and an unwavering commitment to excellence.