The 17th edition of the Headies Awards was held on April 27, 2025, at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos, marking a return to Nigeria after two years in the United States. Dubbed “Back To Base,” the ceremony aimed to celebrate excellence in Nigerian music but was marred by organizational lapses that overshadowed its achievements.
One of the night’s highlights came from Shallipopi, who performed his hit single Cast featuring OdumoduBlvck—an effort that won him the Best Rap Song category. However, the Benin City-born rapper didn’t hold back his disappointment following the event.
In a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Shallipopi shared his frustration, stating:
“The next one if una see me make I bend,”
— a veiled indication that he won’t be attending future Headies ceremonies.
In another message, he added that he didn’t even want the award for Best Rap Single, suggesting that it should be given to “those considered rappers,” a jab likely aimed at the ongoing debate over genre categorization in Nigerian music awards.
According to a 9am News report, the ceremony faced widespread criticism for poor award presentations, extended delays, and an overall lack of professionalism, which has reignited conversations about the Headies’ dwindling prestige in recent years.
Despite the backlash, the ceremony did feature several standout performances. These included Next Rated winner OdumoduBlvck, Special Recognition awardee KCEE, Lifetime Achievement recipient Flavour, and rising stars Qing Madi and Ayo Maff. International acts like Tanzanian sensation Juma Jux and DR Congo’s Innoss B also graced the stage.
Shallipopi, who was also nominated for the coveted Next Rated category, was among the most anticipated artists of the evening. His public remarks have fueled renewed criticism of the event’s management, calling into question the credibility and planning of one of Nigeria’s premier music awards.
As fans and stakeholders reflect on the night, the Headies’ organizers may need to take decisive steps to restore the award show’s image and credibility going forward.
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