Top Nigerian female singer, Omawumi Megbele and rapper, Jude 'M.I' Abaga have been announced as hosts for the 7th edition of TheHeadies; Nigeria's biggest music honours event.

Announcing this yesterday, executive producer Ayo Animashaun said the pair have been selected in line with the awards' tradition of picking talented and inspiring entertainers, to front an awards ceremony that parades some of the continent's biggest entertainers.

Omawumi, 30, came second on West Africa Idol, in 2007. Her success on that show provided a strong foundation for her career, and she hasn't looked back for a minute. With her debut single 'In the music' released in 2008, she established herself as a talent to court, and a singer whose eyes are on the global stage.

The success of that single, won her the coveted 'Next Rated' prize at The Headies in 2009. The award came with a brand new KIA Optima. Omawumi has moved on to become a remarkably successful singer, actor, performer and philanthropist.

For M.I, he has risen from grass to grace, in just about half a decade. And, from a Jos-bred wannabe, who worked hard to find a niche in the hip hop community, M.I has now become the leading rapper and hip hop ambassador on the continent, with many medals to show for his achievements.

The Chocolate City rapper is a multiple winner at TheHeadies, with his prizes including Best Rap Album and Revelation of the year (both in 2009). He has won a total of 9 Headies, starting from his first surprise win in 2008.

Both acts have already been getting together, sharing ideas and fine-tuning concepts, along with The Headies producers, in anticipation of a great show this year.

The Headies 2012 will hold at the Eko Hotel and Suites on Saturday October 20. Now in its seventh year, The Headies (also known as Hip Hop World Awards) is Nigeria's premiere honours event for urbane music and hip hop culture.

Produced and presented to match some of the biggest awards shows from around the world, The Headies annually celebrate deserving Nigerian music stars, giving honour to whom it is due, and encouraging many to step up their game in order to enter The prestigious Headies alumni.