The Academy of Gospel Music in Nigeria (AGMN) has announced that the fifth edition of the Nigeria International Gospel Music Awards (NIGMA) will hold on Sunday, August 9, at the Agip Recital Hall, MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, with this year’s event placing equal emphasis on celebrating gospel music excellence and promoting mental health awareness.
  
Now in its fifth year, NIGMA has become one of Nigeria’s leading platforms for recognising excellence, creativity and impact in gospel music. Organisers said the 2026 edition will go beyond the traditional awards format by launching a nationwide campaign focused on emotional wellbeing, hope and healing, particularly among young Nigerians.
  
The awards’ founder and Chief Responsibility Officer of Golden Heritage Limited, Kingsley Omoefe, frames it deliberately as a celebration rather than a contest. “Gospel music has become one of the most influential forces for inspiration, healing, and positive social change. NIGMA exists to celebrate those who use their gifts, creativity, and platforms to impact lives and contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.
  
“NIGMA is not a competition but a celebration of excellence, creativity, consistency, and positive impact in gospel music. We believe recognising outstanding contributions inspires future generations and strengthens gospel music as a force for hope, faith and national development,” Omoefe added.
  
He explained that the awards remain committed to honouring individuals and organisations whose work continues to inspire lives while advancing national development. He added that the mental health campaign will be implemented through partnerships with churches, mental health organisations, media platforms and other stakeholders.
  
According to Peter Armand Boyo, Head of Strategy, this year’s ceremony aims to further strengthen the global profile of Nigerian gospel music, honouring the artistes whose dedication continues to inspire audiences worldwide.

Project Public Relations Consultant, Nsikak Daniels added that the awards transcend mere entertainment.

“NIGMA has grown into a platform that celebrates purpose, inspires excellence and demonstrates the transformative power of gospel music. This year’s edition promises memorable performances, meaningful conversations and an experience that will leave lasting impact,” he said.
  
Having previously featured acclaimed gospel stars including Frank Edwards, Ada Ehi, Eben, Tim Godfrey, Nikki Laoye and Onos, NIGMA 2026 is poised to reinforce its reputation as a platform that celebrates excellence while using gospel music as a catalyst for hope, healing and national transformation.
   
Highlights of this year’s event include live musical performances, a mental health awareness presentation, Hall of Fame inductions, Lifetime Achievement Awards, red-carpet activities, networking sessions and presentations across categories such as Artiste of the Year, Album of the Year, Choir of the Year, Best Male and Female Vocalists, Afro Gospel Song of the Year and Worship Song of the Year.