The Headies founder Ayo Animashaun has come after Nigerian artistes for overlooking the local award platform while going all out pursuing foreign honours.
In his Instagram Story on Thursday, Animashaun expressed frustration with artistes who don’t submit their work to The Headies but later complain about being snubbed.
“Tom, Dick and Harry will submit entries to foreign award bodies that don’t even care about them and proudly post about it. But these same people won’t submit their entries to the Headies, yet they’ll complain about not being nominated. Funny,” he wrote.
His reaction comes as several Afrobeats stars, including Davido, Ayra Starr, Tems, Asake, Burna Boy, Rema, and Victony, have submitted entries for the 2027 Grammy Awards.
Animashaun also responded to critics of The Headies’ decision to hold its ceremony outside Nigeria, insisting the team remains confident in its vision.
“As long as those who benefit from what we do understand and appreciate it, the artistes understand why taking The Headies to the moon sometimes is the right move, and our sponsors see the vision, we can stand firmly by our decisions. Everyone is entitled to an opinion, but not every opinion carries equal weight.”
He added, “Posterity will be kind to those who see possibilities before they become obvious.”
The 18th edition of The Headies, originally scheduled for October 23, 2026, has been postponed to April 10 and 11, 2027, in Toronto, Canada.
Organisers say the shift accommodates expanded programmes in Nigeria and Canada, including workshops, seminars, industry engagements, and a global trade and investment summit.
