Flawless production… 6 takeaways from AFRIMA 2016

The hype was immense and the publicity was unrivalled; no other event in Nigeria’s history had commanded such pre-event activities.

There was a business roundtable, a music concert and other activities which culminated in the awards ceremony on Sunday, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos.

Over 40 African music stars were invited to Lagos, and in the days leading to the awards ceremony, the city felt their presence.

Here are six takeaways from the awards ceremony.

Extra-tight security

At Nigerian events, security personnel often tend to be extra-alert, astronomically strict and sometimes overzealous, and as it is with everything in life, you get to have doses of good and bad in varying measures.

At AFRIMA 2016, security personnel were everywhere; from the red carpet entrance to the door of the event hall, there were about four checkpoints to scale through.

Even the Very Important Personalities (VIP) got a dose of the stern demeanour of the security officials while some celebrities were manhandled.

The VIP entry was overcrowded and security personnel were compelled to push and shove some of those lined up to enter.

Production quality

When Africa’s best artistes are brought together in one arena, only the best can be expected.

In the area of production quality, the best was gotten at AFRIMA as the sound system was notably flawless for the length of the event.

The ‘Nigerian time’ factor

The late arrival of artistes, dignitaries and sepcial guests ensured the event started pretty late and stretched into the wee hours of Monday morning.

Accreditation delays

Another factor behind the late commencement of the awards ceremony was the mandatory “accreditation process” everyone was compelled to undergo.

It didn’t matter if you had a media pass, regular or VIP ticket, accreditation was compulsory and many were evidently displeased to be subjected to such an experience.

One of the prominent victims of delayed accreditation was Ali Baba, veteran comedian.

The laughter merchant was so incensed that he refused to grant interview to reporters.

Massive turn out

With the level of pre-event promotion done for AFRIMA, it was not entirely surprising that there the attendance rate was high.

The hall was filled to the brim such that many attendees were forced to stand and watch.

Darey and Brymo impress

Two of the best performances on the night were from Brymo Olawale and Darey Art-Alade.

While Darey delivered a trademark sterling performance, Brymo paid tribute to King Sunny Ade, who won the Special Recognition award, by singing one the legend’s classic tunes.