Gospel Music Icons Honoured at NIGMA 2026 Awards Ceremony in Lagos
The Nigeria International Gospel Music Awards (NIGMA) 2026 culminated in a spectacular celebration of talent, faith, and excellence at the prestigious Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos. The event, held amidst an electrifying atmosphere, recognised outstanding contributions to gospel music from Nigeria and beyond, reinforcing the industry’s vital role in shaping spiritual and cultural narratives.
The evening was marked by memorable performances from gospel artistes including Tkeyz, Akpororo, and others, whose energetic displays thrilled attendees and heightened the celebratory mood. The event was attended by industry stakeholders, gospel music enthusiasts, Nollywood icons, stakeholders in the entertainment industry, and distinguished guests, all gathered to honour the exceptional achievements of gospel artistes and ministries.
Omoefe Kingsley, Convener of NIGMA, expressed his heartfelt gratitude and shared a compelling vision for the future of gospel music in Nigeria. “With your continued support, we are confident that NIGMA can further advance its mission to celebrate talent and excellence while proclaiming the Good News through the power of gospel music. This platform is not just an award ceremony; it’s a movement to inspire, uplift, and transform lives,” he stated.
He reiterated the organisation’s commitment to honouring those who have significantly contributed to the growth of gospel music since its inception in 2011, now marking a milestone in its ongoing journey.
Among the notable winners, Moses Bliss was announced as Artiste of the Year, while Gaise Baba featuring Lawrence Oyor took home Song of the Year for “No Turning Back II”. Frank Edwards received the Album of the Year award for “Heart of Worship,” and Tkeyz was recognised as Sammie Okposo Next Rated Artiste. Other distinguished winners included Sunmisola Agbebi as Female Vocalist of the Year, and Tim Godfrey & Fearless Community as Group/Choir of the Year.
International recognitions went to Enkay (Diaspora Artiste of the Year – Female) and Limoblaze (Diaspora Artiste of the Year – Male), highlighting the global reach of Nigerian gospel talent.
The evening also celebrated several special recognitions, including the NIGMA Lifetime Achievement Awards to Evang. Dr. Bola Are and Pastor Kunle Ajayi, the NIGMA Gospel Icon Award to Sinach and Kingsley Ike, and the Kingdom Impact Awards to prominent pastors such as Paul Adefarasin and Jerry Eze. These honours recognise individuals whose influence has significantly shaped the gospel music landscape and ministry.
The event was a testament to Nigeria’s rich gospel music heritage and the industry’s vibrant future, with the organiser’s commitment to excellence and impact resonating throughout the night.
As the night drew to a close, Kingsley urged attendees to “relax, celebrate, and connect”, emphasising that the true success of NIGMA lies in the unity of the gospel community and its collective mission to spread hope and faith through music.
In closing, Omoefe Kingsley expressed profound gratitude to all supporters, partners, and participants, affirming his belief that “with God’s grace, we will continue to do greater works and make a lasting impact.”
Other winners at NIGMA 2026 are below:
INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
NIGMA 2026 also celebrated gospel music excellence beyond Nigeria.
Enkay was named Diaspora Artiste of the Year – Female, while Limoblaze received the Diaspora Artiste of the Year – Male.
NIGMA HONOURS — SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS
Beyond competitive categories, NIGMA 2026 honoured individuals and institutions whose exceptional contributions have strengthened gospel music ministry and its wider ecosystem.
Gospel Concert of the Year: The Experience
NIGMA Lifetime Achievement Award:
• Evang. Dr. Bola Are
• Pastor Kunle Ajayi
NIGMA Gospel Icon Award:
• Sinach
• Kingsley Ike
NIGMA Kingdom Impact Award:
• Pastor Paul Adefarasin
• Pastor Jerry Eze
• Pastor Emmanuel Iren
• Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo
NIGMA Legacy Award:
• Buchi Atuonwu (Buchi)
• Lara George
• Segun Obe
• Sammie Okposo (Posthumous)
NIGMA Special Recognition Award:
• Adeyinka Alaseyori
• Pelumi Deborah
• Blessing Lopez
• G-EFFECT
• Akpororo
NIGMA Distinguished Service Award:
• Peter Armand Boyo
• Victor Igibinigie
• Dr. Tim Ogboruche