The United States Consulate in Lagos rolled out the red carpet on Thursday as it hosted an exclusive reception in honour of the 17th Headies Awards, celebrating the prestigious ceremony’s return to Lagos, Nigeria’s entertainment capital. The event took place at the Consular Residence on Modupe Alakija Crescent, Ikoyi, and brought together key figures from the diplomatic corps, the creative industry, and the Nigerian government.
Lagos: Home of Afrobeat’s Global Pulse
In her address, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, expressed immense pride in the Headies’ homecoming, emphasizing the city’s cultural vibrance and leadership in entertainment.
“We’re thrilled that the Headies are back where they belong—Lagos. Our city remains the entertainment capital of Africa, and under Governor Sanwo-Olu, we’re committed to elevating the creative economy,” she said. “This return reflects our dedication to making Lagos a global hub for talent, innovation, and creativity.”
U.S.–Nigeria Creative Collaboration
The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Mills Jr., commended Lagos State’s unwavering support for the arts, spotlighting the fruitful relationship between the U.S. and Nigeria’s music industries. He hailed global Nigerian stars like Burna Boy and Tems as evidence of Nigeria’s immense cultural export.
“We are proud of our collaboration with Nigerian creatives,” said Mills. “Through exchange programs and training opportunities, we’re supporting the next generation of artists who will shape the global soundscape.”
He also paid tribute to Headies founder Ayo Animasaun, praising his “resilience and commitment” in sustaining the awards for nearly two decades.
A Night of Celebration and Performance
Mr. Animasaun, visibly moved, expressed heartfelt thanks to the Lagos State Government and key sponsors for enabling the awards' successful return to Nigeria.
“Lagos is the heartbeat of African music. This night means the world to us,” he said.
The evening featured electrifying performances from Beriola and Joel Brown, setting a festive tone. A surprise highlight came when popular entrepreneur Cubana Chief Priest took the stage for a debut performance of his new track alongside Joel Brown, marking a fusion of celebrity and music culture.
Star-Studded Attendance
The guest list sparkled with high-profile figures, including Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, and veteran actor Femi Adebayo. Influential voices from across the Nigerian music industry also graced the event, adding weight to the celebration of the Headies' enduring impact.
With Lagos reclaiming the Headies and the global spotlight shining brighter on Nigerian music, the evening was more than a celebration—it was a powerful reaffirmation of Nigeria’s place on the world’s cultural stage.