Animashaun Faults Nigerian Artistes Over Grammy Entries, Neglect of The Headies
By Dim Oba, LAGOS – Ayo Animashaun, founder and executive producer of The Headies, has criticised Nigerian artistes for prioritising submissions to international award bodies, including the Grammy Awards, while neglecting opportunities for recognition at home.
Animashaun expressed his displeasure over what he described as the reluctance of some Nigerian musicians to submit their works for consideration at The Headies, despite publicly celebrating their entries into foreign award programmes.
In a statement, he questioned the attitude of artistes who pursue international recognition but fail to participate in Nigeria’s prominent music awards, only to complain when they are overlooked for nominations.
“Tom, Dick, and Harry will submit entries to foreign award bodies that don’t even care about them and proudly post about it,” Animashaun wrote.
“But these same people won’t submit their entries to The Headies, yet they’ll complain about not being nominated. Funny.”
His comments have reignited conversations about the relationship between Nigerian musicians and local award platforms, particularly the need for artistes to support indigenous institutions that recognise and celebrate achievements in the country’s music industry.
The Headies, established in 2006, is one of Nigeria’s major music awards platforms, recognising outstanding achievements across various genres and categories in the country’s entertainment industry.
Animashaun’s remarks highlight the importance of artistes participating in local award processes rather than expecting nominations without submitting their works for consideration.
The debate also raises questions about the responsibility of musicians and other industry stakeholders in strengthening Nigeria’s entertainment institutions while pursuing international recognition.
While global awards offer opportunities for wider exposure, participation in local platforms such as The Headies remains an avenue for celebrating homegrown talent and documenting the growth of Nigeria’s music industry.
