The 2025 Headies Awards: Ayra Starr, Mohbad, Tems, Rema Lead Nominations

The Headies Academy has unveiled the nominees for the 2025 Headies Awards, marking the award show’s return to Lagos, Nigeria, on April 5, after two years in the United States.

This year’s nominations span 30 categories, showcasing a mix of established stars and rising talents, reflecting the evolving landscape of Nigerian music. The eligibility period for consideration was between April 1, 2023, and July 31, 2024, covering singles, videos, live recordings, EPs, and albums distributed via digital platforms or physical formats such as cassettes, CDs, and vinyl.

Leading the nominations are Grammy-nominated artists Rema and Davido, each securing nine nods, including Artiste of the Year, Digital Artiste of the Year, and Headies Viewers’ Choice Award. Close behind is Ayra Starr with eight nominations in key categories like Artiste of the Year, Album of the Year, and Best Vocal Performance (Female).

Kizz Daniel also earns eight nominations, fueled by his chart-topping hits “Twe Twe” (feat. Davido) and “Showa”.

The late Mohbad receives seven posthumous nominations, including Song of the Year, Headies Viewers’ Choice Award, and Afrobeats Single of the Year for his hit “Egwu” featuring Chike. Odumodublvck emerges as the most-nominated rapper, with seven nods, dominating the Best Rap Single and Best Collaboration categories.

Fresh off her Grammy win, Tems secures six nominations in top categories such as Album of the Year, Artiste of the Year, and Best Recording of the Year. Meanwhile, Asake earns five nominations, competing in Artiste of the Year, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year.

Other multiple nominees include Burna Boy, Flavour, Sarz, Chike, Lojay, Tiwa Savage, Young Jonn, Seyi Vibez, and Ladipoe, all recognized for their contributions to Nigerian music’s global expansion.

The highly anticipated Next Rated category highlights emerging talents poised for industry breakthroughs. This year, Qing Madi, Shallipopi, Odumodublvck, Ayo Maff, and Nasobi vie for the prestigious honor, historically known for launching artists into stardom. Beyond Nigeria, the Headies continues to celebrate African and global talent.

The Best African Artiste categories recognize outstanding performers across East, West, North, South, and Central Africa. Additionally, the Best International Collaboration category honors crossover efforts that gained significant airplay, with Wale, Skepta, Chris Brown, Travis Scott, and Chloe Bailey in contention.

Veteran singer-songwriter Kcee will be honored with the Special Recognition Award for his lasting impact on Nigerian music. From his early hits like “Limpopo” to his fusion of Igbo highlife in “Ojapiano”, Kcee has cemented his place as a pioneer in the Afrobeats movement.

View the list of nominees for the 2025 Headies Awards here.