The Buzz: Trending Entertainment News
From emotional tributes to shocking personal revelations, the 17th Headies Awards delivered an unforgettable night that has set the entertainment world abuzz.
Here’s a roundup of the biggest moments and trending highlights from the event.
Annie Macaulay Confirms Divorce From 2Baba At Headies Awards
Actress Annie Macaulay publicly confirmed her divorce from musician Innocent “2Baba” Idibia during the 17th Headies Awards ceremony held on Sunday night.
The movie star, who had been silent on the matter for months, finally reacted while co-presenting the award for Best Afrobeat Singer of the Year alongside Farooq Oreagba, popularly celebrated as the “King of Steeze” from the 2024 Ojude Oba festival.
While introducing herself on stage, Annie stumbled over her married name before quickly correcting it, signalling her return to her maiden name.
“Annie Idi… Oh! Sorry, Annie Macaulay. Hey, single ladies!” she said, prompting cheers and applause from the audience.
The confirmation follows signs earlier this year when Annie reappeared on social media in March — nearly two months after 2Baba announced their separation — and signed off with her full name, Annie Uwana Macaulay, notably dropping Idibia.
Annie and 2Baba, who have two children, officially ended their marriage in January 2025 after the singer publicly disclosed their split.
Since then, 2Baba has proposed to Edo State lawmaker Natasha Osawaru and introduced her to his family and kinsmen in Benue State, fueling speculation about an impending wedding.
Davido, Rema, Odumodublvck, Others Win At 17th Headies Awards
The 17th Headies Awards, held on Sunday in Lagos, Nigeria, celebrated outstanding achievements across the Nigerian and African music scene.
Among the early winners, Zerry DL claimed the Rookie of the Year award, while Davido was named Digital Artist of the Year. Rema took home Afrobeats Album of the Year for his project HEIS, and Tems won Best Recording of the Year for her song Burning.
The ceremony also honoured distinguished personalities with Special Recognition Awards, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Alex Okosi, and Amaju Pinnick.
In a highlight moment, Odumodublvck was crowned the Next Rated Artist, beating fellow nominees Shallipopi, Qing Madi, and Ayo Maff.
The Headies Awards is a premier music award platform that celebrates outstanding achievements in the Nigerian music industry.
This year’s event is one of two editions, with the 18th edition scheduled to take place in December to make up for the absence of the awards in 2024.
Headies Pays Tribute To Mohbad, Awards ‘Best Street-hop Artiste’
The 17th Headies Awards paid a tribute to the late Afrobeat singer Mohbad, celebrating his life, music and lasting impact on fans.
A video montage featuring his music videos accompanied a narrative that highlighted his journey and influence.
The emotional tribute described Mohbad as a star whose spirit and voice would never be forgotten, noting that his music was more than just sound, it was a movement.
The tribute reads in part: “Some voices are too powerful to be forgotten, some spirits shine so bright they leave a mark that cannot be erased. Mohbad was one of those stars. From the streets of Lagos to the heart of millions, Mohbad’s music was more than sound; it was a movement… Rest in peace, Mohbad, your light will never fade.”
Mohbad was also posthumously awarded the ‘Best Street-hop Artist’ with his song ‘Ask About Me’.
The award was accepted on his behalf by members of his family, including, his wife Wunmi, son, Liam and younger brother Adura.
Hafsoh Isiaq is a graduate of Linguistics. An avid writer committed to creative, high-quality research and news reportage. She has considerable experience in writing and reporting across a variety of platforms including print and online.
