NIGMA UNVEILS STELLAR NOMINEE LIST FOR 2026 EDITION AS GOSPEL MUSIC INDUSTRY PREPARES FOR GRAND CELEBRATION

Moses Bliss, Mercy Chinwo, Lawrence Oyor, and Gaise Baba Lead Pack in Gospel Music’s Most Anticipated Night

The Academy of Gospel Music in Nigeria (AGMN) has officially unveiled the much-anticipated nominee list for the 2026 Nigeria International Gospel Music Awards (NIGMA), setting the stage for what promises to be the most spectacular celebration of gospel music excellence in the nation’s history.

Scheduled to take place on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the prestigious MUSON Centre in Onikan, Lagos, this year’s ceremony comes at a time when Nigerian gospel music is experiencing unprecedented global recognition and creative renaissance.

The 2026 nominations serve as a powerful testament to the remarkable growth, creativity, and excellence permeating Nigeria’s gospel music industry. From veteran ministers who have shaped the genre for decades to emerging talents breaking new ground, the nominee list recognizes outstanding ministers, songwriters, vocalists, choirs, producers, and industry professionals whose work has impacted lives and advanced the Gospel through music across the continent and beyond.

ARTISTE OF THE YEAR: A BATTLE OF GOSPEL HEAVYWEIGHTS

Leading this year’s nominations are some of gospel music’s most celebrated figures, with Moses Bliss, Lawrence Oyor, Mercy Chinwo, and Gaise Baba competing for the coveted Artiste of the Year award—a category that has become the crown jewel of the evening and a true reflection of gospel music’s current landscape.

The competition reflects the diverse sounds and approaches that have come to define contemporary Nigerian gospel music, from the soul-stirring worship anthems to the Afro-gospel fusions that have captivated audiences worldwide.

SONG OF THE YEAR: ANTHEMS THAT DEFINED A GENERATION

The Song of the Year category features some of the year’s most impactful and spiritually uplifting releases, each of which has resonated deeply with audiences and dominated airwaves and streaming platforms throughout the year.

The nominees include:

• “No Turning Back II” by Gaise Baba featuring Lawrence Oyor—a powerful declaration of faith that has become an anthem for believers navigating challenging times

• “We Will Be Many” by Sounds of Salem featuring Lawrence Oyor and Moses Akoh—a prophetic worship piece that has stirred congregations across the nation

• “E Ti Tobi To” by EmmaOMG featuring Pelumi Deborah, BBO, and The OhEmGee Choir—a vibrant celebration of God’s greatness that has become a favourite in churches nationwide

• “Favour” by Lawrence Oyor—a heartfelt expression of gratitude that has connected with listeners on a profound emotional level

ALBUM OF THE YEAR: MASTERPIECES OF WORSHIP

Competition is equally intense in the Album of the Year category, where four critically acclaimed projects are vying for the top honour:

• The Expression by Moses Bliss—an album that has redefined contemporary worship with its bold production and heartfelt lyrics

• In His Will by Mercy Chinwo—a deeply personal collection that showcases the minister’s signature vocal prowess and spiritual depth

• Heart of Worship by Frank Edwards—a masterclass in worship music that blends traditional and contemporary elements seamlessly

• Glory by Sunmisola Agbebi—a powerful debut that announced the arrival of a significant new voice in gospel music

NIGMA NEXT RATED: THE FUTURE OF GOSPEL MUSIC

The NIGMA Next Rated Artiste category shines a well-deserved spotlight on emerging talents who represent the future of Nigerian gospel music. This year’s nominees—TKeyz, Khael, Mera Owili, Uchenna Okereke, and BBO—represent a new generation of ministers who are pushing creative boundaries while maintaining the spiritual essence that defines gospel music.

These young artists have already begun making significant impacts with their unique sounds and messages, and their inclusion in this category signals the industry’s commitment to nurturing and celebrating new talent.

CELEBRATING DIVERSITY AND EXCELLENCE

Other notable categories include Male Vocalist of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year, Group/Choir of the Year, Best Collaboration, Afro-Gospel Song of the Year, and Indigenous Gospel Song of the Year. These categories reflect the diversity and continued growth of gospel music across the nation, acknowledging the various expressions of worship that have emerged from Nigeria’s rich cultural tapestry.

The Afro-Gospel category, in particular, highlights the beautiful fusion of contemporary gospel with traditional African rhythms—a sound that has garnered international attention and positioned Nigerian gospel music as a global force to be reckoned with.

DIASPORA RECOGNITION: NIGERIAN GOSPEL GOES GLOBAL

The international categories recognize the remarkable impact of Nigerian gospel ministers in the diaspora, acknowledging those who have carried the flame of Nigerian gospel music to every corner of the globe.

In the Diaspora Female Artiste of the Year category, nominees include Enkay, Purist Ogboi, Tosin Oyelakin, and Ada Ehi—each of whom has built significant followings and ministries beyond Nigeria’s borders.

The male category features Limoblaze, Gabriel Eziashi, Evans Ogboi, and Lawrence DeCovenant, all of whom have made substantial contributions to gospel music while representing Nigeria on the international stage.

HONOURING LEGENDS: LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AND ICON AWARDS

Beyond the competitive awards, NIGMA will also honour individuals and organizations whose contributions have shaped the gospel music landscape and inspired generations of ministers.

Legendary gospel ministers Evang. Dr. Bola Are and Pastor Kunle Ajayi will receive the NIGMA Lifetime Achievement Award—a well-deserved recognition of their decades of faithful service and their role in laying the foundation for contemporary Nigerian gospel music. Their influence has been immeasurable, and their songs continue to be sung in churches across the nation.

Sinach and Kingsley Ike will be honoured with the NIGMA Gospel Icon Award, celebrating their significant contributions to gospel music and their global impact. Sinach’s “Way Maker” has become one of the most recognized worship songs worldwide, while Kingsley Ike’s production work has shaped the sound of Nigerian gospel music for decades.

KINGDOM IMPACT AWARD: CELEBRATING SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP

The Kingdom Impact Award will recognize Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Pastor Jerry Eze, Pastor Emmanuel Iren, and Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo for their significant contributions to advancing gospel music ministry and supporting the industry. These spiritual leaders have created platforms that have elevated gospel music and provided opportunities for ministers to reach wider audiences.

Their commitment to nurturing musical talent within their ministries has had a ripple effect across the industry, and this recognition acknowledges their vital role in gospel music’s growth.

LEGACY AND SPECIAL RECOGNITION

In addition, Buchi Atuonwu (Buchi), Lara George, Segun Obe, and the late Sammie Okposo will receive the NIGMA Legacy Award—a poignant moment that will celebrate both living legends and the enduring impact of a beloved minister whose music continues to inspire. Sammie Okposo’s contributions to gospel music and his signature “we lift our hands in praise” sound remain an indelible part of Nigeria’s gospel heritage.

Adeyinka Alaseyori, Pelumi Deborah, and Blessing Lopez have been selected for the NIGMA Special Recognition Award, acknowledging their outstanding contributions and the unique impact they have made in their respective areas of ministry.

A CELEBRATION OF PURPOSE AND EXCELLENCE

Speaking on the announcement, Victor Igbinigie, Project Director of the 2026 Nigeria International Gospel Music Awards, described NIGMA as more than an awards ceremony but a significant moment for the entire gospel music community.

“NIGMA is more than an awards ceremony; it is a celebration of purpose, excellence, and the transformative power of gospel music,” Igbinigie stated. “We congratulate all the nominees and celebrate every minister and creative whose work continues to inspire faith, hope, and positive change across Nigeria and beyond.”

He emphasized that the awards ceremony provides a crucial platform for recognizing the hard work, dedication, and spiritual impact of gospel music ministers who often labour without the recognition they deserve.

PREPARATIONS IN FULL SWING

The Academy has also called on gospel music lovers, media organizations, corporate partners, and stakeholders across the industry to join in celebrating this year’s nominees as preparations continue for what promises to be an unforgettable evening of worship, music, and excellence.

The MUSON Centre, renowned for its excellent acoustics and prestigious atmosphere, provides the perfect venue for an event of this magnitude. Organizers have promised a night filled with powerful performances, emotional moments, and the kind of spiritual atmosphere that only gospel music can create.

A GROWING INDUSTRY

The 2026 NIGMA nominations reflect an industry that has grown exponentially in recent years, with Nigerian gospel music now enjoying global recognition and influencing worship styles across continents.

From the traditional hymns that laid the foundation to the contemporary sounds that dominate today’s airwaves, Nigerian gospel music has evolved into a diverse and vibrant genre that continues to break new ground.

The inclusion of multiple genres, languages, and styles in this year’s nominations speaks to the industry’s maturity and its ability to embrace diversity while maintaining its core message of faith, hope, and love.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON AWARDS NIGHT

As the clock ticks down to August 9, anticipation continues to build among gospel music enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the general public. The evening promises to be a spectacular showcase of talent, faith, and excellence.

Attendees can expect stirring performances from some of the nominees and special guest artists, moments of worship that will transcend the awards ceremony itself, and the kind of community celebration that has made NIGMA a highlight of the gospel music calendar.

With the MUSON Centre set to host Nigeria’s gospel music elite, the 2026 Nigeria International Gospel Music Awards is poised to be an unforgettable celebration of the music that continues to change lives, heal hearts, and spread the message of hope across the nation and the world.

The 2026 Nigeria International Gospel Music Awards will take place on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos. Ticket information and further details will be announced in the coming days.