The 17th edition of the Headies Awards, Nigeria’s premier music awards ceremony, returned to Lagos on Sunday, April 27, 2025, after two years abroad. Held at the Eko Convention Centre, the event celebrated outstanding achievements in African music from April 1, 2023, to July 31, 2024.
Rema emerged as the night’s biggest winner, securing Album of the Year and Afrobeats Album of the Year for his project “HEIS.” Davido was honored as Artiste of the Year and Digital Artiste of the Year, reflecting his significant impact on the music scene. Tems clinched Best Recording of the Year with her soulful track “Burning.”
The Next Rated award, spotlighting emerging talent, was awarded to Odumodublvck, while Zerry DL was named Rookie of the Year. Asake’s “Lonely at the Top” won Song of the Year, and Liya received Best Vocal Performance (Female) for “I’m Done.” Lojay took home Best Vocal Performance (Male) with “Billions.” 
The ceremony also recognized regional talents, with Juma Jux from Tanzania winning Best East African Artiste, and Innoss’B from the Democratic Republic of Congo named Best Central African Artiste. The event featured performances by Flavour, Shallipopi, Qing Madi, and others, celebrating the diversity and richness of African music.
The 2025 Headies Awards highlighted the dynamic and evolving landscape of African music, honoring both established artists and rising stars. The return of the ceremony to Nigeria underscores the country’s central role in the continent’s music industry and its commitment to celebrating artistic excellence.
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