LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)-Nigerian singer and Grammy nominee Lojay, is calling for a cultural shift in how Nigerian artists view local recognition.
In a recent interview with Hip TV, the “Monalisa” crooner made a passionate case for why ‘The Headies’ award should be held in higher esteem than international accolades like the ‘Grammys’
Lojay, who took home “Best Male Vocal Performance” at the 17th Headies, argued that Nigerian artists are unlikely to ever be prioritized by global award institutions, no matter their talent or impact.
“As much as the Grammys and other international awards are sweet, as a Nigerian, you can never become a priority in a space that isn’t your own. We’re still advocating just to be put in pop categories for actual pop songs,” he said.
Using fellow Nigerian singer Tems as an example, Lojay pointed out that despite releasing what he described as “one of the most beautiful R&B albums” last year, she was awarded in a niche African category instead of more prominent global ones.
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“Why isn’t she being mentioned in the R&B, pop, or Best Female categories?” he asked. “It’s because they have their own people that they believe deserve those awards — and that’s okay.”
Lojay went on to envision a future where ‘The Headies’ becomes so influential that international acts travel to Nigeria to receive their awards.
“What would really help us as Nigerian artists is if The Headies were so globally respected that someone like Travis Scott would come to Nigeria just to receive his award,”
“I don’t gain anything from the Grammys being bigger than The Headies, but we all gain if The Headies grow bigger,” Lojay added.
Closing with a powerful reminder that local recognition can be meaningful than global validation, the singer urged Nigerians to stop undervaluing local platforms and take ownership of their cultural influence.
“I’m a big believer in Nigeria. I believe in Nigeria being better and stronger. I believe in our people and what we’re doing going global. So we shouldn’t look down on our own,” he concluded.
