MOBO Awards 2025: Ayra Starr makes history as first woman in 16 years to win Best African Act

Ayra Starr has made history as the first woman in 16 years to win Best African Music Act at the 2025 MOBO Awards.

The Nigerian star also clinched the Best International Music Act award at the ceremony held in Newcastle.

With this win, Ayra Starr (2025) joins Wizkid (2017, 2021) and Burna Boy (2020, 2022) as the only Nigerian artists to have won the MOBO Award for Best International Act.

In her acceptance speech, the visibly emotional singer said:

“Okay, this is my first MOBO. And this is the first time I’m winning a MOBO Award—make some noise! I am actually shaking right now. I am actually nervous.

“Thank you so much to everybody who supported me. Thank you to my team—my amazing MOB-STARS.

“My amazing brothers who make music with me—the producers in the studio—my studio partners in crime; my label—MAVINS record, Embryo, my mummy…

“Thank you so much. Thank you, MOBOs.”

Other Notable Winners

IDOMA VOICE reports that other major winners at the 2025 MOBO Awards included Bashy, Darkoo, and Odeal.

Darkoo also won Best Female Act, with MOBO sharing on X:

“From bangers to big wins! @Darkoo takes home the Best Female Act award at the #MOBOAwards – a well-deserved victory! ”

The MOBO Awards (Music of Black Origin Awards) is an annual British music ceremony celebrating excellence in Black music across genres like hip-hop, R&B, soul, reggae, jazz, gospel, and African music.

Founded in 1996 by Kanya King, the MOBOs have played a crucial role in recognizing Black artists in the UK and worldwide.

With Ayra Starr’s historic win, the MOBOs continue to showcase the growing global influence of African music.