Founder and Executive Producer of The Headies, Dr. Ayo Animashaun, has declared that Nigerian artists are experiencing their golden era, thanks to the explosive global appeal of Afrobeats and increasing international collaboration.
Ayo Animashaun made this statement at the U.S. Embassy’s pre-award reception held in Abuja in honour of the 17th edition of The Headies, Nigeria’s biggest and most prestigious music awards show.
“There’s never been a greater time to be a Nigerian artist,” Ayo Animashaun said, addressing a gathering of industry leaders, policymakers, nominated artists, and members of the diplomatic and business communities.
He praised the global music community’s growing embrace of Nigerian sounds and credited partnerships with U.S. creative powerhouses for helping to take Afrobeats to new heights.
According to him, platforms such as Paramount, YouTube, Apple Music, and global record labels like Universal, Empire, and Atlantic have played an instrumental role in amplifying African music across the world.
Animashaun emphasised that the current wave of global recognition is not just a moment — it’s a movement that demands strategic partnerships, sustainable infrastructure, and deeper investment in local talent.
He also reflected on the bold decision to take The Headies to the United States in 2022 and 2023, calling it a defining move that solidified the international relevance of Nigerian music. “That step wasn’t just about geography. It was about showing the world that Nigerian music belongs on the global stage,” he added.
As anticipation builds for the 17th Headies, Animashaun reiterated the platform’s commitment to discovering, nurturing, and celebrating the next generation of African music icons, while championing the legacy of those who paved the way.
