The Headies has unveiled nominees for its 18th edition, with some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars and fast-rising artistes featuring prominently across several categories.
The 2026 nomination list includes established names such as Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Asake, Ayra Starr, Rema, Tems and Tiwa Savage, alongside emerging acts making their mark on the Nigerian music scene.
The highly anticipated Next Rated category features Fido, Fola, Llona, Mavo and Shoday. The category is traditionally one of the most closely watched at The Headies, as it recognises artistes who have recorded significant impact and show strong potential for future dominance in the industry.
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In the Song of the Year category, nominees include Kunmie’s Arike, Poco Lee, Shoday and Rahman Jago’s Hey Jago, Ayra Starr’s Hot Body, Fido’s Joy Is Coming, Asake and Wizkid’s MMS, and Davido and Omah Lay’s With You.
The Afrobeats Single of the Year category also features major releases including Rema’s Fun, Asake and Wizkid’s Jogodo, Shallipopi’s Laho, Davido and Omah Lay’s With You, Fola’s You and Burna Boy’s Bundle by Bundle.
Other categories recognise outstanding albums, recordings, live performances and digital achievements.
The unveiling has generated anticipation among music lovers, with fans now looking forward to seeing which artistes will emerge as winners when the 18th Headies ceremony takes place.