The 17th edition of The Headies Awards was a night filled with emotion, celebration, and memorable moments that highlighted the vibrant landscape of Nigerian music. This year’s ceremony paid tribute to the legends, acknowledged rising stars, and captured the spirit of an industry that continues to inspire the world.
One of the most heartfelt moments of the night was the posthumous honour awarded to the late Mohbad, whose legacy continues to shine brightly. He was awarded Best Street-Hop Artiste for his hit single “Ask About Me.” In a deeply moving moment, Mohbad’s family—including his wife and young son, Liam—accepted the award on his behalf, drawing a standing ovation from the audience.
A tribute performance followed, celebrating Mohbad’s profound influence and the enduring resonance of his music. His multiple nominations, including Best Collaboration for “Egwu” with Chike and Afrobeats Single of the Year, served as a poignant reminder of the gap his untimely passing has left in the industry.
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Drama Unfolds on Stage
The evening was not without its share of drama. Rising star Odumodublvck, who won the Next Rated award, had a tense encounter with the organisers. As he gave his acceptance speech, flanked by his mother, friends, and record label team, the organisers attempted to cut him off by switching off his microphone due to the length of his speech.
Refusing to be silenced, Odumodublvck remained on stage until his microphone was eventually switched back on, allowing him to finish his emotional remarks. The moment quickly became a major talking point of the night, showcasing the passion and determination of the new generation of Nigerian artists.
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Celebrating Excellence: Full List of Winners
Beyond the emotional moments and dramatic scenes, the Headies honoured the very best in Nigerian and African music. Here’s a summary of the night’s biggest winners:
Major Categories
- 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 Artiste: 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 Recognitions
The Headies also presented Special Recognition Awards to individuals who have significantly contributed to the growth of music and entertainment in Nigeria:
- Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State Governor
- Alex Okosi
- Amaju Pinnick
- Kcee
In the Humanitarian Category, awards went to:
- Temitola Adekunle Johnson
- Mitchell Mukoro
Regional Awards
- Best East African Artiste: Juma Jux (Tanzania)
- Best Central African Artist: Innoss’B (DRC)
A Night to Remember
The 17th Headies Awards successfully captured the heartbeat of the African music scene—paying tribute to fallen heroes, recognising the efforts of today’s stars, and welcoming a new generation of artistes determined to shape the future.
From Mohbad’s emotional tribute to Odumodublvck’s bold stand, the night was a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of the Nigerian music industry.
