Headies 2025 Celebrates African Music Stars in Lagos

The 17th edition of the Headies Awards, held in Lagos on Sunday, spotlighted the dynamism of Africa’s music industry, honoring artists whose work has shaped the continent’s cultural landscape.

The ceremony, attended by industry leaders and fans, underscored the global influence of African sounds, with Nigerian stars Rema, Davido, and Tems leading the night’s accolades.

Rema’s HEIS secured Afrobeats Album of the Year, solidifying his position as a genre innovator. Tems earned Best Recording of the Year for her introspective track Burning, while Davido clinched Digital Artist of the Year, reflecting his expansive online reach. Breakthrough artist Zerry DL claimed Rookie of the Year, signaling the industry’s pipeline of emerging talent.

Other notable wins included Asake’s Lonely at the Top for Song of the Year and Chike and Mohbad’s Egwu, which won both Music Video of the Year and Viewers’ Choice. Tanzanian artist Juma Jux and Congolese star Innoss’B were named Best East and Central African Artists, respectively, highlighting the pan-African scope of the awards. The late Mohbad posthumously received Best Street-Hop Artiste for Ask About Me, a nod to his enduring impact.

Special recognition awards honored Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, media executive Alex Okosi, and sports administrator Amaju Pinnick for their contributions to Nigeria’s creative sector. Producer London and songwriter Qing Madi also earned accolades for their technical craftsmanship.

The Headies 2025 not only celebrated individual achievements but also mirrored the industry’s rapid evolution. With Afrobeats dominating global charts and collaborations bridging continents, the awards emphasized Africa’s role as a cultural powerhouse. As streaming platforms amplify African voices, events like the Headies continue to anchor the industry’s growth, fostering both legacy acts and tomorrow’s stars.