Headies Awards in Toronto will strengthen partnership between Nigeria, Canada – Envoy

The Canadian Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Carlos Rojas-Arbulu, has stated that the hosting of the Headies Awards in Toronto, Canada, in 2026 will further strengthen the relationship between Nigeria and Canada.

Carlos made this known on Monday during “The Big Announcement” event at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, attended by entertainment stakeholders, government officials and industry leaders.

He explained that this defines a partnership between culture and commerce, creativity and opportunity, and people of similar growth mindset.

Reliving memories of his first meeting with the creator of the award, Ayo Animashaun, the Canadian envoy described him as a visionary, energetic and capable entrepreneur.

“One of the words today is partnership; Partnership between Nigeria and Canada, culture and commerce, creativity and opportunity and between people who believe when they build riches together they can grow together.

“When I first met Ayo in 2024, I remember going home and telling my wife this guy I just met is fire. I was impressed by vision, energy and capability.” He said.

Also speaking, Headies founder Ayo Animashaun confirmed the main ceremony will take place in Toronto but said Nigerian audiences will remain central to the experience.

Animashaun said the organisers plan to host a watch party and a joint show linking Toronto and Lagos for the 18th edition.

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“The first thing is that we’re going to Toronto for the 18th Headies. The second thing is that we’re not just going to Toronto; we’re not leaving Nigeria behind. We’re going to have a watch party; we’re going to have a watch show between Toronto and Lagos,” he said.

Addressing criticism over moving the awards abroad again, Animashaun questioned whether stopping the show would make sense and pointed to sponsorship as key to funding.

He added, “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? I said, sponsors.”

Meanwhile, the date for the 18th Headies has not been released.