The Headies, Nigeria’s flagship music awards, will hold its 18th edition in Toronto, Canada, organisers confirmed on Monday.
The announcement was made during “The Big Announcement” event at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos. Headies founder and HipTV CEO Ayo Animashaun unveiled details of the upcoming edition, themed “Africa to the World.”
Animashaun stated that organisers will host a watch party and selected award presentations in Lagos to keep the show connected to its Nigerian audience.
This marks the third time the Headies will be held outside Nigeria. The 15th and 16th editions took place in Atlanta, United States, in 2022 and 2023, before returning to Lagos for the 17th edition in 2025 under the theme “Back to Base.”
The 2023 Atlanta edition received mixed reactions, particularly after Ayra Starr’s Best Female Artiste award was presented backstage, a decision she publicly criticised.
Organisers also announced the Headies Trade and Investment Summit, a new initiative aimed at fostering collaboration between the entertainment industry, investors, and stakeholders.
Canada’s Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Carlos Rojas-Arbulu, spoke at the event, noting that Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, Olamide, Reekado Banks, Shallipopi, Asake, and Ayra Starr have all visited Canada in recent months.
Animashaun also addressed last year’s award plaque shortage, stating that the organisers were supplied counterfeit plaques after switching suppliers, which prevented their distribution during the 17th edition.
Further details on the 18th edition, including nomination dates and full ceremony logistics, are expected in subsequent announcements.
Citations & Reference links
(Contains full details of the 18th edition in Toronto, Lagos Watch Party, and “Africa to the World” theme)
Headies Official Instagram Announcement
(Announcement post on June 15, 2026 confirming Toronto as host city and Lagos watch party)
Discover more from Nigerian Sounds
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.