The organisers of The Headies have firmly rejected suggestions that gospel and inspirational musicians are being sidelined from the awards’ major categories. In a statement shared on Instagram, the organisers stressed that faith-based artistes remain fully eligible for mainstream honours, while also highlighting the dedicated Inspirational Single category.
The clarification comes after Afrogospel singer Gaise Baba published an open letter questioning why gospel and inspirational musicians appear to receive limited consideration in some of the award’s biggest categories. Baba argued that artistes should be judged solely on the quality, sound and impact of their work, rather than being restricted because of the religious message in their songs.
“A rap record is a rap record,” he wrote, insisting that a song should remain eligible for its appropriate genre category whether its lyrics focus on wealth, relationships, social issues or faith. He specifically asked whether commercially successful gospel tracks such as “Favour” and his collaboration with Lawrence Oyor, “No Turning Back II,” were being adequately considered alongside mainstream Nigerian records.
Baba also reflected on his own experience as a Headies nominee, noting that the Inspirational Music category was among those not announced during the main ceremony at one edition. He argued that nominees invest significant time in publicity, preparations and attendance, and therefore deserve proper recognition when a category has been created by the organisers.
In their response, The Headies pointed to their historical record as evidence against exclusion claims. The organisers cited previous successes by gospel and inspirational musicians including Lara George, Kefee, Nikki Laoye and Timi Dakolo, underscoring that faith-based artistes have long competed and won within the awards framework.
