The 17th edition of the prestigious Headies Awards, themed ‘Back to Base,’ took place on Sunday at the Landmark Event Centre in Lekki, marking a highly anticipated return to Nigeria after a two-year stint abroad.
Nancy Isime, an actress and media personality, and IK Osakioduwa, a veteran broadcaster, hosted the star-studded ceremony. They brought their signature energy, wit, and humour to keep the audience engaged throughout the event.
The ceremony celebrated outstanding achievements within the Nigerian and African music industries, recognizing artists, producers, and creatives who have made significant contributions over the past year.
Throughout the night, artists like Qing Madi, L.A.X, Odumodublvck, Kcee, Shallipopi, Flavour, Juma Jux, Nasboi, and Magnito performed electrifying sets, contributing to the unforgettable atmosphere.
Memorable Moments from the Night
Tanzanian artist Juma Jux stole the spotlight by winning Best East African Artist of the Year. They triumphed over competitors like Bien (Kenya), Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania), Bruce Melodie (Rwanda), and Azawi (Uganda). They also delivered an unforgettable live performance.
The event turned emotional when Kcee received the Special Recognition Award, acknowledging their 26 years of immense contribution to the Nigerian music scene.
In one of the most moving moments, the late Mohbad was posthumously awarded Best Street-Hop Artist for their hit single “Ask About Me.” Their family, including their partner and young child, received the award, and the audience gave them a standing ovation. The ceremony also paid a heartfelt tribute to Mohbad, celebrating the profound impact of their music and the void their passing left behind. In addition, Mohbad received multiple posthumous nominations, including for Best Collaboration and Afrobeats Single of the Year for “Egwu.”
A Little Drama on Stage
Odumodublvck, who won Next Rated Artist, experienced a bit of drama when event organizers requested they leave the stage mid-speech. However, they refused, insisting on finishing their message. Eventually, the organizers allowed them to continue speaking after turning the microphone back on.
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.
