In a landmark moment for Nigerian hip-hop, Erhiga Agarivbie, popularly known as Erigga, secured the Best Rap Album award at the 17th Headies Awards for his 2024 project, Family Time. This victory not only celebrates his artistic prowess but also marks a significant milestone in his career, especially considering his previous critiques of the Headies Awards.
Erigga’s Family Time stood out among formidable contenders, including Illbliss’s Sideh Kai, Odumodublvck’s Eziokwu, Reminisce’s Alaye Toh Se Gogo Vol.1, and Modenine’s Shiny Object Syndrome .
The album’s compelling narratives and authentic representation of life in Nigeria’s South-South region resonated with both fans and critics, solidifying Erigga’s place in the nation’s rap hierarchy.
This accolade is particularly poignant given Erigga’s history with the Headies. In 2020, his album The Erigma II was nominated for Best Rap Album at the 14th Headies but did not win. Feeling overlooked, Erigga publicly criticized the organizers for what he perceived as a lack of recognition for South-South artists and subsequently boycotted the awards . His decision to abstain from the ceremony highlighted ongoing conversations about regional representation in Nigeria’s music industry.
Erigga’s win is more than personal—it symbolizes a broader acknowledgment of the South-South’s contributions to Nigerian music. His authentic storytelling and commitment to his roots have not only earned him critical acclaim but also paved the way for greater inclusivity in the industry.
In an acceptance speech which he posted on X, Erigga wrote:
“First off, big shoutout to the Most High and everyone who believed in this vision. Winning the Headies Award for Best Rap Album is surreal—this is for every late night in the lab, every sacrifice, every moment I felt like the world wasn’t listening.
“Respect to all the grinders out there—those working jobs in silence, studying while others sleep, hitting the gym when nobody’s watching, and staying true to values that don’t fit the crowd. This award is proof: your sacrifices will pay off. Stay relentless, stay weird, stay YOU The world just ain’t ready yet.
“To my team, my family, and every fan who streamed this album when it was just a dream—y’all made it reality. They said rap had to sound a certain way? Nah. This trophy says otherwise. Keep going.
“Thank you, @the_headies Headies. Thank you, AREA. More chapters coming—trust me.
GOD DEY HEAR ALL OUR PAINS CONTINUE TO GRIND.
READ ALSO: Erigga slams Headies for snub, reveals why he’s been boycotting the Awards
