Headies Breaks Silence On Alleged Neglect Of Gospel Artistes

The organisers of The Headies have dismissed claims that gospel and inspirational artistes are being sidelined at the prestigious Nigerian music awards.

According to Ireporter Online, the organisers clarified that faith-based musicians remain eligible to compete in major award categories alongside artistes from other genres, provided their entries meet the required criteria.

The clarification followed concerns raised by Afrogospel singer Gaise Baba, who questioned what he described as the limited presence of gospel and inspirational artistes in some of the major categories at the awards.

Gaise Baba had argued that musicians should primarily be judged based on the quality, creativity and impact of their music rather than the religious themes contained in their songs.

Responding to the concerns in a statement published on its official Instagram page on Monday, August 31, 2026, The Headies rejected the suggestion that gospel artistes had been excluded from major categories.

The organisers pointed to the history of the awards, citing several gospel and inspirational musicians who have competed against mainstream artistes and received recognition in major categories.

They referenced artistes including Lara George, Kefee, Nikki Laoye and Timi Dakolo as examples of faith-based musicians who have received recognition beyond categories specifically created for inspirational music.

The organisers recalled Lara George’s recognition for her song “Ijoba Orun” and Kefee’s success with “Kokoroko,” featuring Timaya.

Timi Dakolo was also highlighted as an example, having won three awards on one night, including Recording of the Year, Best Vocal Performance (Male) and Best R&B Single.

The Headies maintained that these achievements demonstrate that gospel and inspirational musicians have historically been allowed to compete for honours across different categories.

The organisers also defended the Best Inspirational Single category, which was introduced in 2022, explaining that it was created to provide additional recognition for inspirational and faith-based music rather than restrict such songs from competing elsewhere.

Since the category was introduced, artistes including Kcee and Okwesili Eze Group, Neon Adejo and Mercy Chinwo have emerged as winners.

The Headies therefore stressed that gospel musicians remain free to submit their works for other categories as long as the songs satisfy the eligibility requirements and standards applicable to those categories.

The organisers insisted that the existence of a dedicated inspirational category should not be interpreted as a barrier preventing gospel artistes from competing for recognition in other major categories at The Headies.