The organisers of Headies Awards have announced that the 18th edition of the annual music event will be held in Toronto, Canada, citing economic considerations.
Headies founder Ayo Animashaun made the disclosure on Monday during “The Big Announcement” event at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos.
This marks the second time the awards will be hosted outside Nigeria, following the 15th edition in Atlanta in 2022. The 17th edition was held in Lagos in 2025.
Animashaun defended the decision to take the show abroad again, saying it was necessary to sustain the event.
“Someone said Ayo, you are taking the Headies out of the country again, he said it doesn’t make sense. Tell me what makes sense. Does it make sense for us not to do it anymore?” he asked.
He explained that the main ceremony would take place in Toronto but would run simultaneously with a live watch party in Lagos to allow Nigerian fans to participate.
“So how do we fund it? We will have a watch Party in Lagos,” Animashaun added.
The move is expected to attract greater international attention to Nigerian music while addressing logistical and financial challenges of hosting the awards domestically.
