The 2025 Headies Awards returned to Lagos, Nigeria, marking the show’s comeback to Africa after two editions in Atlanta. Held on April 27 at the Landmark Event Centre and livestreamed on YouTube and Hip TV, the ceremony celebrated Afrobeats and African contemporary music while highlighting major achievements across the industry.
Davido emerged as one of the night’s biggest winners, taking home Artist of the Year and Digital Artist of the Year. He also presented the prestigious Next Rated award which he called “the most important” of the night to Odumodublvck, who also secured Best Rap Single. Davido reflected on winning the same award 12 years earlier, emphasizing the dedication required to reach such a milestone.
Humanitarian efforts were recognized as well, with Temitola Adekunle Johnson, senior special assistant to the president on job creation, and philanthropist Michelle Mukoro (King Mitchy) receiving honors for their work supporting underprivileged communities. Johnson praised the progress of Nigeria’s creative scene, noting how far the industry has come globally.
The show also celebrated influential leaders in the creative landscape. Lagos governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu received a tribute for his support of the arts, while Alex Okosi of Google Africa and Amaju Pinnick, chairman of Brownhill Group, earned Special Recognition awards for advancing the continent’s digital and cultural industries.
Established in 2006, The Headies formerly the Hip Hop World Awards continues to spotlight excellence in Nigerian music. Only works released between April 1, 2023, and July 31, 2024, were eligible for this year’s nominations.
Across the competitive categories, standout wins included Rema’s “Heis” for Album of the Year, Asake’s “Lonely at the Top” for Song of the Year, Zerry DL as Rookie of the Year, and Tems’ “Burning” for Best Recording. Other major highlights included Ayra Starr winning Best R&B Single with “Last Heartbreak Song,” Ladipoe taking Lyricist on the Roll, and Mercy Chinwo securing Best Inspirational Single.
On the continental stage, the awards honored outstanding artists from across Africa, with winners from Ivory Coast, Tanzania, Algeria, South Africa, and the DRC taking regional trophies. Burna Boy also claimed Best Performer for his African Giant Live performance from London.
Overall, the ceremony showcased the depth, diversity, and global rise of African music, while celebrating both established icons and rising stars shaping the future of Afrobeats and contemporary African sound.
