Headies Awards first left Nigeria in 2022 for its 15th edition in Atlanta, United States, but returned to Lagos for the 17th edition in 2025.
By Kehinde Okeowo
The organisers of the Headies Awards have announced that the 18th edition of the event will be held in Canada, noting that the decision was made purely for financial reasons.
This was made known on Monday by Headies founder, Ayo Animashaun, while speaking during “The Big Announcement” event held at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos.
The highly prestigious music awards show first left Nigeria in 2022 for its 15th edition in Atlanta, United States, but returned to Lagos for the 17th edition in 2025.
According to Animashaun, the decision to hold the 18th Headies in Toronto, Canada, is to ensure the event goes ahead despite the huge costs involved.
ALSO READ: Nicki Minaj claims she battles constant spiritual warfare in music industry
He further explained that although the main ceremony will take place in Toronto, it will run simultaneously with a live watch party in Lagos.
He noted that with part of the event scheduled for Lagos, Nigerian fans will still be able to participate in the celebration and witness portions of the awards presentation as the event unfolds abroad.
Animashaun said, “Someone said, ‘Ayo, you are taking the Headies out of the country again,’ and that it doesn’t make sense. Tell me what makes sense. Does it make sense for us not to do it anymore?
“So, how do we fund it? We will have a watch party in Lagos.”
