The 17th edition of the renowned Headies Awards, themed ‘Back to Base’, made a spectacular return to Nigeria after a two-year hiatus, with the event taking place at the Landmark Event Centre in Lekki on Sunday.

The ceremony was hosted by actress and media personality Nancy Isime, alongside veteran broadcaster IK Osakioduwa. Their dynamic energy and humor set the stage for an unforgettable evening, where outstanding achievements in both the Nigerian and African music industries were celebrated.

A Celebration of African Music Excellence

The evening focused on honoring those who have made significant contributions to the music scene across Africa, with performances from top stars like Qing Madi, L.A.X, Odumodublvck, Kcee, Shallipopi, Flavour, Juma Jux, Nasboi, and Magnito among others, keeping the energy high throughout the night.

Emotional Moments and Highlights

A particularly moving moment occurred when the late Nigerian artist Mohbad was posthumously awarded Best Street-Hop Artiste for his hit “Ask About Me”. The award was accepted by his family, including his wife and young son, Liam, who received a standing ovation from the audience. A heartfelt tribute to Mohbad underscored the lasting impact he had on the industry.

Tanzanian artist Juma Jux also made his mark by winning Best East African Artiste of the Year, defeating notable contenders like Diamond Platnumz and Bien, and thrilling the crowd with his live performance.

Special Recognition

Nigerian music icon Kcee was presented with the Special Recognition Award in acknowledgment of his remarkable 26-year career, which has greatly shaped the Nigerian music scene.

Unexpected Drama

A moment of tension occurred when Odumodublvck, winner of the Next Rated category, was asked to leave the stage during his acceptance speech. However, the rapper, accompanied by his family and team, stood his ground and refused to exit, eventually being allowed to finish his speech after his microphone was switched back on.

Complete 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

Song of the Year: Asake – Lonely at the Top

Best Rap Single: Shallipopi feat. Odumodublvck – Cast

Best Street-Hop Artiste: Mohbad – Ask About Me

Best Vocal Performance (Female): Liya – I’m Done

Best Vocal Performance (Male): Lojay – Billions

Best Music Video: Director Pink – Egwu

Songwriter of the Year: Qing Madi – Vision

Rookie of the Year: Zerrydl

Best East African Artiste: Juma Jux (Tanzania)

Best Central African Artiste: Innoss’B (DRC)

Other Notable Awards

Other standout winners included Best Digital Artiste of the Year Davido, Best Movie Soundtrack A Tribe Called Judah, and the Viewers’ Choice Award presented to Chike and Mohbad for Egwu. Special recognition awards were also given to figures such as Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and football administrator Amaju Pinnick.

A Memorable Celebration

The Headies Awards 2025 proved to be a night filled with powerful moments, excitement, and even a bit of drama. It was a true celebration of the vibrant growth of African music, spotlighting the incredible talent and contributions of artists across the continent.