Headies Awards return to Nigeria for 2025 ceremony

The Headies, Nigeria’s top music awards, will return to its roots in 2025 with two separate editions in the same year, organizers confirm.

This announcement was made through a video shared on The Headies’ X page by Ayo Animashuan, the founder of the prestigious award.

17th edition scheduled for April 2025
In the video, Animashuan revealed that the 17th edition of The Headies would be held on April 5, 2025.

This ceremony will honour outstanding achievements in music for the year 2024. He also confirmed that the nominations for this event will be announced on February 12, 2025, adding excitement for music fans eager to see which artists will be in the running for the coveted awards.

Postponement of the 17th edition
The 17th edition of The Headies was initially planned for 2024 but was postponed for various reasons. Animashuan explained, “This award, which is happening in April, was meant to take place last year.

However, due to unforeseen circumstances, it didn’t happen. We did not want to miss a calendar year, so we decided to host the event in April.”

The 18th edition in December 2025
Looking ahead, the 18th edition will take place in December 2025. This event will celebrate the best of Nigerian music from both 2024 and 2025, bringing together the highlights of two years.

Animashuan also mentioned that the December edition would be in line with the popular “Detty December” tradition, a festive period that attracts both local and international attention.

A legacy of excellence in Nigerian music
The Headies has grown to become a symbol of excellence in the Nigerian music industry. Established in 2006, the award recognizes outstanding achievements across various categories, from artist of the year to best producer.

Its mission has always been to spotlight the talent and creativity driving the Nigerian music scene.

The first edition and early success
The very first edition of The Headies was held at the Shell Hall of the MUSON Center in Onikan, Lagos.

Hosted by Darry Art Alade, the inaugural event saw several notable artists take home awards, including Don Jazzy, P-Square, Jude Okoye, Mode 9, DJ Jimmy Jatt, Keke Ogungbe, and Dayo.

These pioneers laid the groundwork for what has since become a global event, showcasing the best of Nigerian music to audiences worldwide.

Global expansion with the 16th edition
In recent years, The Headies expanded its reach internationally. The 16th edition, held in 2023, marked a significant milestone in the history of the awards.

It took place at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center in Atlanta, Georgia, on September 3. The show, which attracted a global audience, saw Rema and Burna Boy emerge as the biggest winners, each taking home three awards.

Other prominent winners that night included Wizkid, Davido, Ayra Starr, Asake, and Omah Lay, further solidifying their places as top figures in the global music scene.

Honouring legends: Angelique Kidjo’s induction
The 16th edition also featured a historic moment—the induction of Angelique Kidjo into The Headies Hall of Fame.

Kidjo, a legendary African musician, was honoured for her contributions to the global music industry and her role in elevating African music on the world stage.

Return to Nigeria for the 17th edition
In February 2024, the organizers confirmed that the 17th edition of The Headies would return to Nigeria.

This decision follows the two consecutive years of hosting the event in the United States, in 2022 and 2023.

The return to Nigeria is expected to generate even more excitement and anticipation, as fans eagerly await the recognition of local talent that has dominated the music scene over the past year.

The future of the Headies
The Headies continues to play an essential role in shaping the future of Nigerian music, providing a platform for emerging artists to gain recognition while celebrating the achievements of established stars.

With the upcoming editions set to highlight the best in music from 2024 and 2025, The Headies remains a vital event on the African music calendar, fostering both national pride and global recognition for Nigeria’s thriving music industry.

Anticipation builds for 2025
As the event draws closer, the anticipation surrounding The Headies will only continue to grow. Fans, artists, and industry professionals alike will be eager to see who will take home the prestigious awards in April and December.

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