The 18th Headies Awards nominations have arrived, and this year’s list has thrown up a fascinating mix of established superstars and fast-rising Nigerian artistes.
Leading the pack is Fola, whose impressive run has earned him 10 nominations, placing him ahead of several of Afrobeats’ biggest names. His nominations include major categories such as Album of the Year, Next Rated, Songwriter of the Year and Best Male Artiste.
Fola’s strong showing comes largely on the back of his acclaimed album CATHARSIS, which has positioned the singer as one of the notable new voices in Nigerian music.
Omah Lay follows with eight nominations, while Mavo and Wizkid each received seven. Asake and Davido also remain firmly in the spotlight with six nominations apiece.
One of the biggest talking points is Davido and Omah Lay’s collaboration “With You,” which appears across six categories, including Recording of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Collaboration, Music Video of the Year, Afrobeats Single of the Year and Viewers’ Choice.
The nominations also highlight the growing influence of Nigeria’s emerging artistes. The Next Rated category features Fido, Fola, Llona, Mavo, Shoday and Zaylevelten, creating one of the most closely watched races of the night.
Among female artistes, Ayra Starr and Tiwa Savage lead with five nominations each. Kunmie also earned five nominations following his breakout success, including recognition for his popular song “Arike.”
The Album of the Year category is equally competitive, bringing together projects from Fola, Omah Lay, Erigga, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Odumodublvck and Tiwa Savage.
Beyond Nigeria, the 2026 nominations reflect the Headies’ growing continental ambition. The awards include regional categories covering artistes from different parts of Africa, as well as international and Canadian/African diaspora categories.
Music legend Awilo Longomba is set to receive the prestigious Headies Hall of Fame Award, while entertainment executive Cecil Hammond will receive a Special Recognition Award for his contributions to the African entertainment industry.
The 18th Headies is themed “Africa to the World” and is scheduled to take place in Toronto, Canada, on October 25, 2026.
With established stars battling for major awards and a new generation fighting for recognition, this year’s ceremony could produce some unexpected winners.
The biggest question now is simple: who will leave Toronto with the most coveted trophies?
