Organisers of The Headies have rescheduled the 18th edition of the music awards to 10 and 11 April 2027 in Toronto, Canada.
The ceremony was originally scheduled for 23 October 2026, but the organisers said the change would allow them to expand activities in Nigeria and Canada ahead of the Toronto finale.
According to an official statement published by The Headies, the expanded programme will bring together musicians, industry professionals, investors and other stakeholders under the theme Africa to the World.
Pre-award activities to continue
The organisers confirmed that activities under the Road to The Headies programme would continue during the period originally scheduled for the awards.
These will include workshops, seminars and industry engagements involving artists, nominees and other professionals in the creative sector.
The Toronto finale will also feature the Headies Global Trade & Investment Summit, which is intended to connect African businesses and creative professionals with international investors and commercial partners.
The Headies founder, Ayo Animashaun, said the wider programme would create opportunities for those working in music to engage with people and organisations that could support the industry’s growth.
The organisers said the awards would remain central to the event despite the expanded business and cultural activities.
Organisers apologise over date change
The postponement has raised concerns among some fans who had already made plans to attend the October ceremony.
As Legit.ng reported, several social media users criticised the change, while others asked about ticket refunds and existing travel arrangements.
Animashaun acknowledged the inconvenience caused to guests who had committed time and money to attending the event.
The organisers apologised and said further details about the programme, venues and guest arrangements would be communicated through their official channels.
No specific refund arrangements were outlined in the announcement.
Toronto to host expanded Headies programme
The Toronto event will mark another international edition of The Headies, following previous ceremonies held in Atlanta, United States.
Established in 2006 as the Hip Hop World Awards, The Headies recognises achievements by Nigerian musicians and other professionals in the music industry.
The organisers said the expanded Toronto programme would combine music recognition with opportunities for business and cultural exchange.
As also reported by Leadership, activities leading up to the rescheduled ceremony will continue, with further announcements expected.
