From Disgrace to Glory: Portable Earns Headies Nomination After Past Ban

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

Nigerian street-hop sensation, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has secured a major milestone in his career with a nomination at the 2025 Headies Awards. His song Tony Montana, a collaboration with British rapper Skepta, has been nominated in the International Artist of the Year category, a recognition that signals a turning point in his relationship with the prestigious awards body.

The nomination is particularly significant given Portable’s past friction with the Headies. In 2022, he was disqualified from the awards over controversial remarks and alleged threats to fellow nominees, a development that created the impression that the Headies had severed ties with him. However, this latest recognition suggests that the rift has been mended, paving the way for a fresh chapter in Portable’s career.

Music analysts view this as a positive development, not just for Portable but for the broader Nigerian music industry, which continues to gain global recognition. The International Artist of the Year category celebrates non-African artists who have significantly contributed to the Afrobeats movement, and Skepta’s inclusion alongside Portable highlights the growing international appeal of Nigerian street music.

While Skepta is the official nominee, Portable’s involvement in Tony Montana makes this nomination a shared victory for the Nigerian artist. Industry watchers believe that this moment could open new doors for Portable, who has consistently courted controversy but has also demonstrated undeniable talent and resilience.

With the 2025 Headies Awards set to be one of the biggest events in African music, all eyes will be on whether Tony Montana secures a win—and what this means for Portable’s evolving career.