Fola leads the 18th Headies nominations list with 11 nods, followed closely by Omah Lay with 8 nominations, and breakout sensation Mavo with 7 nominations. The ceremony, themed "Africa to the World," is set to take place on October 25, 2026, in Toronto, Canada.
Top Nominees Shine in 18th Headies List
Fola's monumental 2025 has paid off with a whopping 11 nominations, including Album of the Year, Next Rated, Songwriter of the Year, and Best Male Artiste. His debut album CATHARSIS is among the top contenders for Album of the Year, alongside Tiwa Savage's THIS ONE IS PERSONAL, Wizkid's MORAYO, and Burna Boy's NO SIGN OF WEAKNESS.
Omah Lay's collaboration with Davido on "With You" has earned the duo a total of 8 nominations, including Recording of the Year, Music Video, and Best Collaboration. The song is also up for Song of the Year and Afrobeats Single of the Year.
Mavo's rise to stardom is reflected in his 7 nominations, which include Best New Artist and Best Male Artiste. His breakout single has earned him a spot among the top contenders for Song of the Year, alongside Kunmie's "Arike" and Asake and Wizkid's "MMS."
Female Powerhouses Dominate Top Categories
Ayra Starr and Tiwa Savage are the most nominated female stars with 5 nominations apiece. Asake and Davido round out the top tier with 6 nominations each. The Best Female Artiste category is a tight competition between Ayra Starr, Qing Madi, Sewa, Tems, and Tiwa Savage.
The Best Vocal Performance (Female) category features a diverse range of talented artists, including Layefa, Amaeya, Sewa, Qing Madi, and Tiwa Savage. The winner will be announced at the 18th Headies ceremony.
Regional and International Recognition
The 18th Headies Awards have extended their regional awards to 16 African countries, recognizing the continent's rich musical diversity. The ceremony will also feature categories for International Artiste of the Year and Best Canadian/African Diaspora Artiste.
Legendary Congolese artiste Awilo Longomba will receive the iconic HEADIES HALL OF FAME AWARD, while Cecil Hammond will be honored with the SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD for his lasting contributions to African entertainment.
What's Next for the 18th Headies
The 18th Headies ceremony is set to take place on October 25, 2026, in Toronto, Canada. Fans and industry professionals alike are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the winners. With a diverse range of talented artists and a rich musical heritage, the 18th Headies Awards are poised to be an unforgettable celebration of African music and culture.
Source: Pulse.ng
