The Battle for Lyricist on the Roll Begins at Headies 2026

The race for Lyricist on the Roll at the 2026 Headies Awards is officially underway, celebrating the wordsmiths delivering some of the most impressive bars, storytelling, and lyrical performances in Nigerian hip-hop.

This year’s nominees are:

The category recognizes the creativity, pen game, and technical skill behind some of the strongest rap performances of the year. From clever wordplay and sharp punchlines to storytelling and lyrical depth, each nominee represents a unique approach to Nigerian hip-hop.

Featuring a mix of established rap veterans and new-generation voices, this year’s Lyricist on the Roll category highlights the continued growth and evolution of the Nigerian rap scene.

As fans await the awards ceremony, the conversation has already begun over which artist delivered the most memorable lyrical performance.

Who are you rooting for to win Lyricist on the Roll at the 2026 Headies?