Afrobeats icon Davido has shared heartfelt praise for rising rap sensation Odumodublvck following his major victory at the 17th Headies Awards.

Davido, who had the honor of presenting the prestigious Next Rated award to Odumodublvck during the ceremony, followed up with a personal phone call to the rapper, underscoring the award’s life-changing impact on any young artist’s career.

In a video circulating on social media, Davido reflected on the significance of the accolade, recalling how past winners like Wande Coal, Wizkid, and himself experienced career-defining moments after winning it.

“Next Rated isn’t just a trophy,” Davido told Odumodublvck. “It’s a sign. A confirmation that your time has come. Wande Coal, Wizkid, me — we all got it. It changed everything.”

The ‘Unavailable‘ crooner congratulated the rapper once again and urged him to seize the moment as a springboard for even greater success.

 

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Odumodublvck, known for his gritty fusion of rap and street-hop, triumphed over a strong lineup of contenders including Shallipopi, Qing Madi, Ayo Maff, and Nasboi.

His win made history, as he became the first rapper to clinch both Rookie of the Year and “Next Rated” awards.

 

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Since bursting onto the scene with ‘Picanto‘ in 2022, Odumodublvck has seen a meteoric rise, working with heavyweights like Zlatan, Burna Boy, and Davido — notably on the chart-topping single *5ive*.

His breakout hit ‘Declan Rice‘ became a national anthem and even soundtracked the English footballer’s high-profile transfer to Arsenal in 2023.

With his latest project ‘The Machine Is Coming’ making waves, and his highly anticipated debut album ‘The Industry Machine‘ on the horizon, Odumodublvck is staking his claim as one of the brightest new forces in Nigerian hip-hop.

 

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Recall that the 17th edition of the Headies was held on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos, celebrating excellence in Nigerian music.

Among the high-profile attendees, a viral video surfaced showing Cubana Chief Priest being stopped by security personnel at the venue’s entrance. The incident quickly sparked mixed reactions online, with many debating whether it was a misunderstanding or poor event organization.

Cubanna Chief Priest was reportedly bounced at the Headies Award! What could have happened? 🥴 pic.twitter.com/rNg5Cta37I

— OLAMIDE 🌸💖 (@Olamide0fficial) April 28, 2025

Unfazed by the buzz, Cubana Chief Priest took to Instagram to thank fans for their support during his recent performance in Aba, Eyinmba City, and teased the release of new music.
In his post, he wrote:
“Thank you so much Aba Eyinmba city. New music out in a bit. One is not enough. Wait for it.”

This marks an interesting move for Cubana Chief Priest, who is traditionally known for his nightlife empire and social influence rather than music.

His announcement hints at a possible deeper foray into the music industry — and fans are curious to see what he will deliver.

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• Shallipopi vows never to attend the Headies again following 2025 ceremony

• ‘I Nor Be Rapper’ – Shallipopi reacts to Headies Awards 2025 after winning Best Rap Single

Nigerian rapper Shallipopi has vowed never to attend the Headies Award again after expressing his dissatisfaction with the 17th edition of the prestigious ceremony.

The event, held on April 27, 2025, at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos, was marred by issues such as poor organization, delays, and a lack of professionalism.

Shallipopi, whose hit single Cast featuring Odumodublvck won the Best Rap Song award, took to his X account to voice his displeasure.

In a post hours after the ceremony, he wrote, “The next one if una see me make I bend,” implying that he would not be present at future Headies events.

The next one if una see me make I bend

— Shallipopi (@plutomaniapopi) April 28, 2025

In another post, the Benin City-born rapper further expressed his frustration, stating that he would rather not have received the Best Rap Single award, suggesting that the Headies should reserve such accolades for artists considered true rappers.

Shallipopi, who was also nominated for the highly sought-after Next Rated award, was one of the most talked-about figures at the event.

His decision to speak out highlights the growing concerns over the state of the award show, with many criticizing its organization and questioning its credibility.

I nor go even lie for una sef, I nor want that award give the real rappers wey dey the category, me Shallipopi I nor be rapper

— Shallipopi (@plutomaniapopi) April 28, 2025

The 17th Headies, themed Back to Base, marked a return to Nigeria after two years in the United States. Despite this, the ceremony’s issues have sparked conversations about the event’s prestige, with artists, fans, and industry insiders expressing discontent.

The night featured performances from big stars like Odumodublvck (Next Rated winner), KCEE (Special Recognition recipient), Flavour (Lifetime Achievement award), as well as rising talents such as Qing Madi and Ayo Maff. Despite the setbacks, the event did celebrate Nigerian music and its rising stars.

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• Ayo Maff reacts to Odumodublvck’s Headies Awards 2025 win with Playful Message to Fans

Nigerian singer Ayo Maff has playfully responded to Odumodublvck’s big wins at the 2025 Headies Awards, addressing their friendly competition in the music scene.

Taking to X, Maff shared a lighthearted tweet that read, “I thought we agreed that @Odumodublvck_will leave that Headies Award for me. Bros no be so ooo but no yawa sha. MAFFIANS we move. I have something for y’all soon.”

This tweet, filled with humor and optimism, quickly gained attention from fans and industry followers. It not only acknowledged Odumodublvck’s success but also hinted at new music on the way for Maff’s fanbase, affectionately known as “MAFFIANS.”

I thought we agreed that @Odumodublvck_ will leave that headies Award for me 🤧🤧 Bros no be so ooo 🤲🏽🤲🏽but no yawa sha. MAFFIANS we move 🫡 I have something for y’all soon 🥷🔈🔉🔊

— Ayo Maff 🥷🏽 (@AyoMaff) April 28, 2025

At the 2025 Headies, Odumodublvck had an exceptional night, clinching the prestigious Next Rated award and the Best Rap Single award for his track Cast, featuring Shallipopi.

While Maff did not take home an award, he was nominated for the Best Street-Hop Artiste category for his collaboration with Fireboy DML on Dealer, a category ultimately won by the late Mohbad.

Maff was also a contender for the Next Rated award, alongside Odumodublvck, Qing Madi, Shallipopi, and Nasboi, but Odumodublvck emerged victorious.

Despite not winning, Maff’s positive attitude and dedication to his craft are clear, as he continues to thrive in the industry. His playful message assures his fans that he’s focused on his upcoming projects, leaving them excited for what’s next.

Here is the full list of Headies awards Winners

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Omowunmi, the wife of the late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, moved the audience to tears with her emotional speech at the 17th Headies Awards held on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos.

Mohbad posthumously won two major awards on the night: Best Street-Hop Artiste of the Year and Viewer’s Choice Award for his collaboration with Chike on the hit song “Egwu.”

Taking the stage to accept the awards, Omowunmi spoke with grace and deep emotion, making it clear that she refuses to refer to Mohbad as her “late husband” because, to her, he lives on — especially through their young son, Liam.

In her heartfelt words, she shared:

“On behalf of myself, my son Liam, my husband’s immediate younger brother Adura, and the rest of the Imonelization family, we want to specially thank you for this award.”

She continued:

“Although Mohbad isn’t here with us anymore, he lives on. I don’t like to address him as my late husband because he lives forever, especially through our son Liam. Although he may be too young to grasp the depth of his father’s greatness, I know, and I believe that one day, he will know. Thank you so much, Headies. Thank you for shining a light on my husband. Thank you for honouring his memory and legacy. It means so much to me, his son, and the entire Imonelization family.”

 

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Omowunmi’s emotional tribute highlighted the lasting legacy of Mohbad’s music, the love he left behind, and the hope that his son will one day understand the depth of his father’s influence.

Mohbad's Wife and his son, Liam receives his award for Best Street Artist..

Emotional moment🤍🤍 #headies2025 pic.twitter.com/g23ZCyqISQ

— 𝔸b𝕒𝕫𝕫 (@abazwhyllzz) April 28, 2025

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At the 17th Headies Awards held in Lagos, the late Afrobeat singer Mohbad was honoured with a heartfelt tribute that moved many to tears and deep reflection.

During the ceremony, organizers played a montage of Mohbad’s music videos, accompanied by a solemn voiceover narrating the story of his life, his musical journey, and the unforgettable impact he left on fans and the Nigerian music scene.

The tribute captured the true essence of Mohbad’s influence, portraying him as a star whose spirit and voice could never be forgotten.

In a touching closing message, the organizers urged the late singer to “rest in power,” affirming that his light would continue to shine brightly.

Part of the tribute message read:

“Some voices are too powerful to be forgotten, some spirits shine so bright they leave a mark that cannot be erased.

Mohbad was one of those stars. From the streets of Lagos to the heart of millions, Mohbad’s music was more than sound; it was a movement…
Rest in peace, Mohbad, your light will never fade.”

The emotional moment stood out as one of the most memorable highlights of the night, serving as a powerful reminder of Mohbad’s enduring legacy in Nigerian music.

 

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Notable Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck created a buzz at the 17th Headies Awards after refusing to leave the stage when his microphone was muted mid-speech during his acceptance of the prestigious Next Rated Award.

The awards ceremony, held on April 27, 2025, in Lagos, saw many of Nigeria’s biggest music stars win big. However, Odumodublvck’s moment quickly became one of the night’s most talked-about highlights.

Mounting the stage with his mother and a large entourage of over 11 supporters, the rapper began his acceptance speech.

 

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Midway through, however, his microphone was cut off due to time constraints, and he was asked to leave the stage.

Refusing to comply, Odumodublvck stood his ground, prompting the organizers to restore his microphone connection so he could finish his speech.

When given the floor again, he delivered a powerful and emotional message:

“Against all odds, I have pushed against so many barriers like this. A couple of years back, there were so many feelings we could not express through our music.

The world clamped us down — ‘you can’t be this,’ ‘you can’t speak like this,’ ‘you can’t do this,’ ‘you can’t release music this way.’
Me standing here today is proof that all those things are fallacies.
It only would have been possible through my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, who has been there for me through thick and thin.
Tonight, God has shown that God reigns.”

His boldness and heartfelt words have since sparked widespread discussion online, with many praising him for standing firm and speaking his truth.

 

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The star-studded event gathered the brightest talents in the Nigerian and African music industry, celebrating excellence, creativity, and hard work across various categories.

From breakthrough acts to established legends, the night was filled with memorable moments as artists were recognized for their outstanding contributions over the past year.

Here’s the full list of winners at the 2025 Headies Awards:

Next Rated Award

QING MADI

SHALLIPOPI

ODUMODUBLVCK WINNER

AYO MAFF

NASBOI

Rookie of the Year award

Zerrydl WINNER

Taves

Kaestyle

Llona

 

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Soundtrack of the Year

Eledumare

Lose to Gain

Kill Boro

Orissa

Emotions

Tribe Called Judah Soundtrack WINNER

Best Recording Of The Year

Tems — Burning WINNER

Seyi Vibez — Different Pattern

Burna Boy — Higher

Ayra Starr & Giveon — Last Heartbreak Song

Sarz & Lojay — Billions

Best Vocal Performance (Male)

Lojay – “Billions” WINNER

Omah Lay – “Moving”

Anendlessocean – “Gratitude”

Johnny Drille – “For You”

Timi Dakolo – “Ke Na Ke So”

Best Rap Single

Shallipopi & Odumodublvck — Cast WINNER

Odumodublvck, Bloody Civilian & Wale — Blood on the Dance Floor

Ladipoe Ft Rozzz & Morrell — Hallelujah

Magnito — Canada

JERIQ — Ije Nwoke

Viewers’ Choice

Young Jonn, Kizz Daniel & Seyi Vibez — Big Big Things

Hyce, Boypee, Brown Joel & Davido — Ogechi remix

Chike & Mohbad — Egwu WINNER

Kizz Daniel — Showa

Seyi Vibez — Different Pattern

Rema — OZEBA Tems — Love me Jeje

Shallipopi & Odumodublvck — Cast

Ayo Maff & Fireboy DML — Dealer

Flavour — Big Baller

Producer of the Year

Sarz — Happiness

London — OZEBA WINNER

Rema/Producer X/Cubeatz/Deatz/Klimperboy — HEHEHE

Magicsticks — Basquiat

Dibs — Different Pattern

Digital Artiste of the Year

Ayra Starr

Rema

Shallipopi

Tems

Davido WINNER

Kizz Daniel

Asake

Song of the Year

Showa – Kizz Daniel

Commas – Ayra Starr

Egwu – Chike and Mohbad

Lonely at the Top – Asake WINNER

Ozeba – Rema

Big Baller – Flavour

 

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Songwriter of the Year

Simi — Stranger

Qing Madi — Vision WINNER

Llona — Can’t Breathe

Bloody Civilian — Family Meeting

Wizard Chan — Stages of Life

Music Video Of the Year

Rema — Charm

Olamide — Metaverse

Blaqbonez — Like Ice Spice

Kcee — Ojapiano

Chike & Mohbad — Egwu WINNER

Kizz Daniel — Showa

Davido, The Cavemen & Angelique Kidjo — Na Money

Beat Street Hop Artiste

Seyi Vibez — Different Patterns

Ayo Maff & Fireboy DML — Dealer

Shallipopi & Odumodublvck — Cast

Zhus JDO — Johnbull

Mohbad — Ask About Me WINNER

Afrobeats Single of the Year

Young Jonn, Kizz Daniel & Seyi Vibez — Big Big Things

Kizz Daniel & Davido — Twe Twe Remix Chike & Mohbad — Egwu

Asake — Remember

Hyce, Boypee & Brown Joel Ft Davido — Ogechi remix

Flavour — Big Baller WINNER

Afrobeats Album of the Year

Stubborn – Victony

Work of Art – Asake

The Year I Turned 21 – Ayra Starr

Heis – Rema WINNER

Jiggy Forever – Young Jonn

Best East African Artiste of the Year

Bien

Diamond Platnumz

Juma Jux WINNER

Bruce Melodie

Azawi

 

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The Headies Academy has officially unveiled the lineup of performers for the much-anticipated 17th edition of the Headies Awards, scheduled to take place on April 27, 2025, at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos.

Among the top acts taking the stage:

• Shallipopi, who received six nominations, including the highly coveted Next Rated category.
• Qing Madi and Nasboi, also contenders for Next Rated, will bring their fresh energy to the Headies stage.
• Chike, a past Headies winner and this year’s four-time nominee, including a nod for Song of the Year, will deliver a soulful performance.
• Flavour, the legendary highlife musician and Headies Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, is also confirmed to perform—bringing cultural richness to the lineup.

Tagged “Back to Base,” this edition marks the award ceremony’s return to Nigeria after two consecutive years in the United States. In a symbolic gesture, the U.S. Consular General recently hosted a premiere event where the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism hailed the homecoming as a “welcome development.”

To address growing concerns over irregular timelines, the Headies Academy revealed that two editions will be held in 2025—one in April and another in December—to close the gap year and realign the calendar.

 

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This year’s nomination list has sparked heated reactions, with fans and industry insiders calling out notable omissions and guideline inconsistencies, particularly in nominating ineligible materials. Despite this, major stars like Rema, Tems, Odumodublvck, and Ayra Starr lead the pack with multiple nods.

Headies Executive Producer Mr. Ayo Animashaun recently expressed concern about dwindling local support, noting that the Grammys have become more celebrated in Nigeria—a shift he hopes to change by rekindling national pride in the Headies.

With performances from rising stars and veterans alike and a renewed focus on local culture and credibility, the 17th Headies is shaping up to be both a celebration and a turning point for Nigeria’s most iconic music award.

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In a statement released on social media, the event has now been rescheduled to April 27, 2025, due to unforeseen circumstances.

Confirming the change, the organisers assured fans and industry stakeholders that the award show remains on track to deliver an unforgettable experience. Their official statement read:

“Due to unforeseen circumstances, we regret to announce that the 17th Headies has been rescheduled from April 5th to Sunday, April 27th, 2025. We understand that many of you may have already made arrangements for the original date, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Please know that our commitment to delivering an exceptional experience at The Headies remains unwavering. We are excited to bring you an unforgettable evening of music, glamour, and excitement on April 27th. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”

This development comes shortly after the announcement of the nominees for the 17th edition, further heightening anticipation for the awards night.

With the Headies returning to Nigeria after two years of being hosted abroad, fans and industry players eagerly await a thrilling event featuring top-tier performances and a celebration of musical excellence.

Founded in 2006, the Headies Awards have grown to become one of the most significant platforms for recognising Nigerian and African music talent.

The last edition, held in Atlanta, USA, was the second time the ceremony was hosted outside Nigeria. With its return to Lagos, expectations are high for a night of glamour, competition, and groundbreaking musical moments.

As the new date approaches, all eyes remain on the organisers to see if any further changes will be made in the lead-up to the event.

 

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Nigerian rapper Oladips has released a diss track aimed at the Headies Award following the omission of Indigenous rappers from the rap categories in the recently unveiled 17th Headies nominations list.

In the track, shared on February 17, 2025, Oladips pays homage to pioneer Yoruba Indigenous rappers who inspired his journey in rap while criticizing the Headies for what he describes as a continued disregard for Indigenous rap.

Oladips, whose 2023 album Superhero Adugbo was ignored in the rap categories, sees the omission as part of a larger pattern of disrespect towards Yoruba rappers in the Nigerian music industry.

Interestingly, the rapper also hinted at reconsidering his stance on Wizkid’s “Hip-Hop is dead” comment, suggesting it might be time to apologize for initially tackling the Afrobeats star over the controversial remark.

See the post below:

 

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Oladips is the latest artist to call out the Headies 17th edition, which has been criticized for snubs, errors, and inconsistencies in its nomination process:

– Ruger sarcastically called the Headies the best award show in the world.

– Dotti The Deity questioned the exclusion of the alternative music categories.

– Next Rated nominee Ayo Maff listed artists he believed should have also been nominated.

Since its inception in 2006, the Headies has been Nigeria’s premier music award show. However, the event has suffered from gap years, production issues, and diminishing credibility.

Even Headies Executive Producer Ayo Animashun recently admitted in an interview that the Grammys’ growing influence in Nigeria has overshadowed the Headies.

The 17th Headies Awards is scheduled for April 5, 2025, and it will be the first of two editions this year, with the second set for December.

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The eligibility period for this year’s awards spanned from April 1, 2023, to July 31, 2024, during which numerous Nigerian artists released remarkable projects—some of which were recognized, while others were surprisingly overlooked.

However, the Headies faces unique challenges, notably its recurring scheduling delays and execution issues. In this article, we examine some of the most striking omissions from the 17th Headies nomination list.

(Note: This analysis assumes that all omitted works were submitted for consideration.)

• Best Recording of the Year

Nominated:

– TEMS—“Burning”
– SEYI VIBEZ—’Different Pattern’
– BURNA BOY—’Higher‘
– AYRA STARR & GIVEON—’Last Heartbreak Song’
– SARZ feat. LOJAY – ‘Billions‘

Notable Snubs:
– Asake—“Lonely At The Top”
– OdumoduBlvck—”Blood On The Dance Floor”

Asake’s ‘Lonely At The Top‘ was arguably the defining track from his sophomore album ‘Work of Art,’ boasting a refined composition that stood out during the review period. OdumoduBlvck’s ‘Blood On The Dance Floor’ was another masterfully crafted record, making its omission surprising.

• Producer of the Year

Nominated:

– SARZ—’ Happiness‘
– LONDON—’Ozeba’
– MAGICSTICKS—’Basquiat‘
– REMA/PRODUCER X/CUBEATZ/DEATZ/KLIMPERBOY—’Hehehe‘
– DIBS—’Different Pattern‘

Notable Snubs:

– P.Priime
– Jay Synths
– Blaise Beatz
– KZITO

P.Priime had an exceptional year, contributing significantly to Rema’s ‘HEIS‘ album. Jay Synths, who crafted Flavour’s ‘Big Baller‘ (nominated for Song of the Year), and Kizz Daniel’s ‘Ojapiano,’ also deserved consideration. Blaise Beatz’s work on ‘Twe Twe‘ and KZITO’s contributions to Victony’s ‘Pier 46′ further highlight the gap in the nominations.

• Best Collaboration

Nominated:

– Tiwa Savage feat. Asa—’Emotions‘
– OdumoduBlvck, Bloody Civilian & Wale—’Blood On The Dance Floor’
– Shallipopi feat. OdumoduBlvck—’Cast‘
– Chike & Mohbad—’Egwu‘
– Qing Madi & BNXN—’Ole‘
– Kizz Daniel & Davido – ‘Twe Twe Remix‘
– Wizkid feat. Zlatan—’IDK‘

Notable Snubs:

– BNXN & Ruger – “Poe”

The collaborative track ‘Poe‘ by BNXN and Ruger was a standout hit, making its absence from this category quite unexpected.

• Afrobeats Single of the Year

Nominated:

– Young Jonn feat. Kizz Daniel & Seyi Vibez—’Big Big Things‘
– Kizz Daniel—’Twe Twe Remix’
– Chike feat. Mohbad—’Egwu‘
– Asake—’Remember‘
– Hyce, Boypee & Brown Joel feat. Davido—’Ogechi Remix‘
– Flavour—’Big Baller’

Notable Snub:

– Kcee—”Ojapiano”

As one of the biggest Afrobeats hits of the eligibility period, Kcee’s ‘Ojapiano‘ had a significant cultural and commercial impact. Its omission is arguably one of the most glaring oversights.

• Lyricist on the Roll

Nominated:

– A-Q—’Mogadishu”
– M.I Abaga—’Chocolate City Cypher‘
– Blaqbonez—’Chocolate City Cypher’
– Ladipoe—’Hallelujah‘
– Alpha Ojini—’Efeleme‘

Notable Snub:

– OdumoduBlvck

With tracks like ‘MC Oluomo’ and ‘Saint Obi,’ OdumoduBlvck demonstrated superior lyricism, making his exclusion from this category quite puzzling.

• Rookie of the Year

Nominated:

– Llona
– Kaestyle
– Taves
– ZerryDL

Notable Snubs:

– TML Vibez
– Muyeez

Both artists made an impact in the Nigerian mainstream with their breakout projects, and many expected at least one to secure a nomination.

• Best Street-Hop Artist

Nominated:

– Seyi Vibez—’Different Patterns’
– Ayo Maff feat. Fireboy DML – ‘Dealer’
– Shallipopi feat. OdumoduBlvck—’Cast‘
– Zhus Jdo—’Johnbull‘
– Mohbad—’Ask About Me’

Notable Snub:

– Kashcoming

With ‘How Low’ and his DJ YK-assisted ‘Oblee,’ Kashcoming left a mark on the street-hop scene, making his exclusion surprising.

• Song of the Year

Nominated:

– Kizz Daniel—’Showa‘
– Ayra Starr—’Commas‘
– Chike & Mohbad—’Egwu‘
– Asake—’Lonely At The Top’
– Rema—’Ozeba‘
– Flavour—’Big Baller’

Notable Snub:

– Kcee—”Ojapiano”

Given its immense popularity, ‘Ojapiano’s‘ absence is particularly notable. The track revitalized Kcee’s career and introduced the Igbo flute (Oja) into the Amapiano wave.

• Artiste of the Year

Nominated:

– Davido
– Ayra Starr
– Asake
– Rema
– Tems
– Burna Boy

Notable Snubs:

– Seyi Vibez
– Kizz Daniel

Seyi Vibez and Kizz Daniel had stellar years, with their projects delivering some of the biggest Nigerian hits. Their exclusion raises questions about the selection criteria.

• Final Thoughts

The Headies, while an essential platform for recognizing musical excellence, continues to grapple with issues of execution and timing. The lack of a fixed calendar year creates eligibility confusion, resulting in inconsistencies.

For instance, Omah Lay’s ‘Moving‘ was nominated despite falling outside the window, and Phyno’s ‘Full Time Job’ was initially listed, then removed after backlash.

Additionally, while new categories were introduced, others—such as Alternative/Traditional Song & Album—were axed without explanation, sidelining a significant portion of Nigerian talent.

For the Headies to maintain credibility and grow in prestige, the organizers must refine their processes, adhere to a structured timeline, and ensure transparency in their selections.

Only then can it truly serve as a definitive reflection of Nigeria’s evolving music landscape.

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