Sanwo-Olu Graces Return of Headies Awards to Lagos, Celebrating African Music Excellence
Lagos, Nigeria – April 28, 2025 — The 17th edition of the Headies Awards returned to Lagos in grand style on Sunday, after a two-year stint in Atlanta, Georgia. Held at the prestigious Eko Convention Centre in Victoria Island, the event was graced by top dignitaries, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and featured a star-studded lineup of artists celebrating the best in African music.
This year’s ceremony, themed “Back to Base” and “Apologetically African,” highlighted the continent’s rich musical heritage while introducing two new categories: Soundtrack of the Year and Best Performer (Live)—a move aimed at expanding the scope of recognition within the industry.
Governor Sanwo-Olu applauded the Headies for spotlighting Nigeria’s vibrant music culture, stating, “It’s always a pleasure to support an industry that not only entertains but also unites and inspires. The Headies continue to honour the dedication and talent of our artists.”
The eligibility period for this year’s awards spanned from April 1, 2023, to July 31, 2024. With performances and appearances from Africa’s finest, the night celebrated groundbreaking achievements in Afrobeats, rap, R&B, gospel, and beyond.
Among the night’s biggest winners were Rema, who took home Afrobeats Album of the Year for HEIS and Producer of the Year (with London for “Ozeba”), and Asake, whose hit “Lonely At The Top” clinched Song of the Year. Rising star Zerry DL was named Rookie of the Year, while Odumodublvck earned the coveted Next Rated award.
Here is a summary of some key winners:
Song of the Year: “Lonely At The Top” – Asake
Album of the Year: HEIS – Rema
Next Rated: Odumodublvck
Best Rap Single: “Cast” – Shallipopi & Odumodublvck
Best Recording of the Year: “Burning” – Tems
Digital Artiste of the Year: Davido
Best Music Video: “Egwu” – Directed by Pink
Best Vocal Performance (Female): Liya – “I’m Done”
Afrobeats Single of the Year: “Big Baller” – Flavour
Best Collaboration: “Cast” – Shallipopi ft. Odumodublvck
Best West African Artiste of the Year: Black Sherif (Ghana)
Best East African Artiste of the Year: Juma Jux (Tanzania)
Best Central African Artiste of the Year: Innoss’B (DRC)
With this vibrant return to home soil, the Headies Awards once again affirmed its status as Africa’s premier music award platform—honouring creativity, excellence, and the enduring spirit of African artistry.