United STATES (U.S.) Mission has hailed creative industry collaboration between the United States and Nigeria, which is bringing the two countries closer in music, film, fashion, arts, tech, professional and educational exchanges.   
  
Delivering remarks at a pre-award reception in honour of the 16th Headies Music Awards, U.S. Consul General, Will Stevens, applauded the burgeoning ties of both countries in the creative industry.   
  
 Stevens said the return of the Headies award to Atlanta symbolises the Nigerian music industry’s dynamism, creativity and growing global reach. He also highlighted the importance of an inclusive and sustainable creative ecosystem in advancing economic growth and strengthening bilateral people-to-people ties.
   
“Afrobeats is dominating the American music scene right now and we are so proud to be partnering with the Headies and the Lagos State Government to build on our longstanding bilateral people-to-people ties through music,” Stevens said, adding: “We remain committed to supporting programmes and initiatives that promote artistic expression, encourage cultural exchange, and strengthen the capacity of Nigerian artists and professionals in the creative industry.”

Nigerian Consul General in Atlanta, Amina Smaila, noted that the upcoming awards in Atlanta offer an opportunity to celebrate African culture, resilience, and creativity. “Nigerian music has truly become a global force. This demonstrates the impact of Nigerian music beyond borders and its role in shaping the global cultural landscape,” Smaila said.
   
Founder/Executive Producer of the awards, Ayo Animashaun, expressed his excitement at the growing cultural and artistic exchanges between the United States and Nigeria.  
   
He noted that the 16th Headies provides an invaluable opportunity for U.S. artists and entertainment professionals to engage with their Nigerian counterparts, fostering meaningful connections and inspiring new collaborations.  
  
 “Our goal is to continue to support the development of talent and nurture innovation in the music industry,” Animashaun added.