On Sunday, the prestigious Headies Awards celebrated its 17th edition at the Landmark Event Centre in Lekki, under the theme ‘Back to Base,’ highlighting a long-awaited return to Nigeria after two years away.
The star-studded ceremony was co-hosted by actress and media personality Nancy Isime and veteran broadcaster IK Osakioduwa. Their trademark enthusiasm and wit ensured the audience remained entertained throughout the occasion.
17 Headies Awards
The event honored remarkable accomplishments in the Nigerian and African music sectors, acknowledging the artists, producers, and creatives who have significantly impacted the industry over the last year.
During the night, performers such as Qing Madi, L.A.X, Odumodublvck, Kcee, Shallipopi, Flavour, Juma Jux, Nasboi, and Magnito delivered captivating sets, enhancing the memorable ambiance.
Memorable Moments from the night
Tanzanian musician Juma Jux captured attention by being awarded Best East African Artist of the Year, surpassing rivals such as Bien from Kenya, Diamond Platnumz from Tanzania, Bruce Melodie from Rwanda, and Azawi from Uganda. Additionally, they provided a remarkable live performance.
The atmosphere became emotional as Kcee was honored with the Special Recognition Award for their 26 years of significant contributions to the Nigerian music industry.
During a poignant moment, the late Mohbad was awarded the title of Best Street-Hop Artist posthumously for their acclaimed single ‘Ask About Me.’ The award was received by their family, including their partner and young child, who were met with a standing ovation from the audience.
The event also included a heartfelt tribute to Mohbad, recognizing the lasting impact of their music and the emptiness left by their departure. Additionally, Mohbad received multiple posthumous nominations, such as Best Collaboration and Afrobeats Single of the Year for ‘Egwu.’
A Little Drama On stage
Odumodublvck, the recipient of the Next Rated Artist award, encountered some drama when event organizers asked them to exit the stage during their speech.
Nevertheless, they stood their ground and insisted on completing their message. Ultimately, the organizers relented and permitted them to continue speaking after restoring the microphone.
Full List of Winners
Best Recording of the Year: Tems – Burning
Producer of the Year: London – Ozeba
Next Rated: Odumodublvck
Afrobeats Album of the Year: Rema – Heis
Songwriter of the Year: Qing Madi – Vision
Rookie of the Year: Zerrydl
Best Rap Single: Shallipopi feat. Odumodublvck – Cast
Best Vocal Performance (Female): Liya – I’m Done
Music Video of the Year: Director Pink – Egwu
Best Street-Hop Artist: Mohbad – Ask About Me
Afrobeats Single of the Year: Flavour – Big Baller
Viewers’ Choice Award: Chike & Mohbad – Egwu
Digital Artist of the Year: Davido
Song of the Year: Asake – Lonely at the Top
Best Vocal Performance (Male): Lojay – Billions
Best Movie Soundtrack: A Tribe Called Judah
Special Recognition Awards: Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Kcee, Amaju Pinnick, Alex Okosi
Humanitarian Awards: Temitola Adekunle Johnson, Mitchell Mukoro
Best East African Artist: Juma Jux (Tanzania)
Best Central African Artist: Innoss’B (DRC)
The 2025 Headies Awards showcased the diverse and evolving talent across the African music industry, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
