The organisers of the Headies have announced that the 18th edition of the prestigious music awards will be held in Toronto, Canada, marking the second time the ceremony will leave Nigerian shores.

The awards first moved abroad in 2022 for its 15th edition, which took place in Atlanta, United States. However, the event returned to Lagos for the 17th in 2025.

The announcement was made on Monday during "The Big Announcement" event held at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos.

Headies founder, Ayo Animashaun, disclosed that the decision to host the ceremony in Toronto was primarily driven by economic considerations.

He revealed that while the main awards ceremony will take place in Canada, a simultaneous live watch party will be held in Lagos, allowing Nigerian fans to participate in the celebration and witness portions of the proceedings as they unfold abroad.

He said:
"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? So how do we fund it? We will have a watch Party in Lagos."