The 17th edition of the prestigious Headies Awards, themed ‘Back to Base’, made a vibrant return to Nigeria after two years abroad, lighting up the Landmark Event Centre in Lekki on Sunday night.
Hosted by the charismatic Nancy Isime and veteran broadcaster IK Osakioduwa, the ceremony celebrated outstanding achievements across Nigerian and African music, honouring artists, producers, and creatives who made remarkable contributions over the past year.
The night featured electrifying performances from top acts including Qing Madi, L.A.X, Odumodublvck, Kcee, Shallipopi, Flavour, and Tanzanian singer Juma Jux who not only thrilled with his performance but also clinched the Best East African Artiste award.
In a heartfelt moment, Kcee received a Special Recognition Award for his 26-year contribution to the Nigerian music industry. The emotional high point of the night came as late singer Mohbad was posthumously honoured with the Best Street-Hop Artiste award for his hit “Ask About Me,” with his family — wife and son — accepting the award to a standing ovation. Mohbad also earned multiple posthumous nominations, a testament to his lasting impact on the industry.
The night was not without drama as Odumodublvck, who won the Next Rated category, refused to leave the stage after his microphone was initially switched off during a lengthy acceptance speech. Eventually, organisers allowed him to complete his address.
The ceremony capped off a night of glamour, powerful performances, and heartfelt tributes, reflecting the vibrant evolution of African music.
See Full List of Winners Below:
- Best Recording of the Year: Tems – Burning (Winner)
- Producer of the Year: London – Ozeba (Winner)
- Next Rated: Odumodublvck (Winner)
- Afrobeats Album of the Year: Rema – Heis (Winner)
- Songwriter of the Year: Qing Madi – Vision (Winner)
- Rookie of the Year: Zerrydl (Winner)
- Best Rap Single: Shallipopi feat. Odumodublvck – Cast (Winner)
- Best Vocal Performance (Female): Liya – I’m Done (Winner)
- Music Video of the Year: Director Pink – Egwu (Winner)
- Best Street-Hop Artiste: Mohbad – Ask About Me (Winner)
- Afrobeats Single of the Year: Flavour – Big Baller (Winner)
- Viewers’ Choice Award: Chike & Mohbad – Egwu (Winner)
- Digital Artiste of the Year: Davido (Winner)
- Song of the Year: Asake – Lonely at the Top (Winner)
- Best Vocal Performance (Male): Lojay – Billions (Winner)
- Best Movie Soundtrack: A Tribe Called Judah (Winner)
- Special Recognition Awards: Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Alex Okosi, Amaju Pinnick, and Kcee
- Humanitarian Awards: Temitola Adekunle Johnson, Mitchell Mukoro
- Best East African Artiste: Juma Jux (Winner)
- Best Central African Artiste: Innoss’B (Winner)
The Headies 2025 was a dazzling celebration of music, legacy, and the unstoppable rise of African talent on the world stage.
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