Nigeria’s most prestigious music awards, The Headies, have officially announced their highly anticipated 17th edition, making a grand return after a year-long hiatus. The ceremony, set to take place on 5 April 2025, will be hosted in Lagos, Nigeria, following widespread criticism of its previous editions being held in the United States.
The organisers released the full nominations list on Wednesday, showcasing a diverse mix of both established and emerging talents from Nigeria and across Africa.
Odumodublvck Leads Nominations, Mohbad Honoured Posthumously
Hip-hop star Tochukwu Ojogwu, popularly known as Odumodublvck, emerged as the most nominated artist for the 2025 edition, securing an impressive five nominations. His hits, including “Cast” featuring Shallipopi and “Blood on the Dance Floor” with Bloody Civilian and Wale, have dominated the charts over the past year.
A poignant highlight of this year’s nominations is the inclusion of the late Ilerioluwa Aloba, better known as Mohbad, who received three posthumous nominations. Mohbad tragically passed away in September 2023, and his continued recognition in the industry serves as a testament to his lasting impact on Nigerian music.
Ayra Starr and Shallipopi Among Top Nominees
Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr is set to continue her impressive run after winning at the 2022 Headies, as she also secured three nominations this year. Rising star Crown Uzama, known as Shallipopi, earned the same number of nominations, cementing his status as one of Nigeria’s biggest breakout acts.
The Rookie of the Year category features fresh talents like Taves, Zerrydl, Kaestyle, and Llona, all of whom have gained significant attention for their contributions to the industry over the past year.
Categories and Nominees
The Headies have maintained their diverse range of categories, recognising excellence in Afrobeats, hip-hop, R&B, songwriting, production, and music video direction. Some of the notable categories and nominees include:
Best Recording of the Year:
- TEMS – “Burning”
- Seyi Vibez – “Different Pattern”
- Burna Boy – “Higher”
- Ayra Starr & Giveon – “Last Heartbreak Song”
- Sarz ft. Lojay – “Billions”
Producer of the Year:
- Sarz – “Happiness”
- London – “Ozeba”
- Magicsticks – “Basquiat”
- Rema & Cubeatz – “Hehehe”
- Dibs – “Different Pattern”
Best Rap Single:
- Odumodublvck ft. Shallipopi – “Cast”
- Odumodublvck ft. Bloody Civilian & Wale – “Blood on the Dance Floor”
- Ladipoe, Rozzz & Morrelo – “Hallelujah”
- Magnito – “Canada”
- Jeriq – “Ije Nwoke”
Best Collaboration:
- Tiwa Savage ft. Asa – “Emotions”
- Odumodublvck, Bloody Civilian & Wale – “Blood on the Dance Floor”
- Shallipopi ft. Odumodublvck – “Cast”
- Chike & Mohbad – “Egwu”
- Qing Madi & BNXN – “Ole”
- Kizz Daniel & Davido – “Twe Twe Remix”
The Headies Return to Nigeria
The 2025 edition of The Headies marks a return to its Nigerian roots, following backlash over the decision to host the 2022 and 2023 editions in Atlanta, USA. Many industry stakeholders and fans criticised the move, arguing that the awards should be held in Nigeria to celebrate local talent on home soil.
Responding to these concerns, the organisers have brought the event back to Lagos, a city that remains the epicentre of Afrobeats and African music culture.
A Night to Celebrate African Music
With the event just weeks away, excitement is building among fans and industry professionals alike. The Headies Awards have long been recognised as the most significant platform for celebrating Nigerian and African music excellence.
From seasoned superstars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido to new-generation artists like Rema, Ayra Starr, and Shallipopi, this year’s nominees highlight the incredible growth of Nigerian music on the global stage.
As the countdown begins, all eyes will be on 5 April 2025, when the best in African music will gather in Lagos for what promises to be a historic night in entertainment.