Kunle Ajayi, Frank Edwards, others shine at NIGMA 2026

Gospel music's brightest stars and key industry figures converged for the 2026 Nigeria International Gospel Music Awards (NIGMA), celebrating significant contributions to the genre. The Academy of Gospel Music Nigeria organized the event, which honored ministers, artists, creatives, and institutions driving the growth and reach of gospel music and ministry.

Moses Bliss took home the coveted Artiste of the Year award. The night saw major wins for Gaise Baba and Lawrence Oyor's "No Turning Back II," securing Song of the Year, Best Collaboration, and Afro-Gospel Song of the Year. Frank Edwards earned Album of the Year for "Heart of Worship," while Sunmisola Agbebi was named Female Vocalist of the Year. Tim Godfrey and Fearless Community won Group/Choir of the Year.

Nigerian gospel artists making waves internationally were also celebrated. Nkiruka “Enkay” Ogboruche received Diaspora Female Artiste of the Year, and Limoblaze was awarded Diaspora Male Artiste of the Year. The ceremony also recognized indigenous talent, with Chinyere Udoma winning Indigenous Gospel Song of the Year for "Eze Abata."

Beyond competitive categories, NIGMA paid tribute to gospel music pioneers. The Experience was named Gospel Concert of the Year. Bola Are and Kunle Ajayi were presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award, while Sinach and Kingsley Ike received Gospel Icon Awards for their genre contributions. The Kingdom Impact Award recognized the influence of Paul Adefarasin, Jerry Eze, Emmanuel Iren, and Biodun Fatoyinbo through ministry and media. The late Sammie Okposo was honored posthumously.