Nigerian music sensation, Ayra Starr, has etched her name in history, becoming the first woman in 16 years to win the Best African Music Act at the prestigious MOBO Awards 2025.
Adding to her monumental night, she also claimed the Best International Music Act award at the event, held in Newcastle.
With this achievement, Ayra Starr joins an elite group of Nigerian stars—Wizkid (2017, 2021) and Burna Boy (2020, 2022)—who have previously won the Best International Music Act category at the MOBOs.
The night, hosted by Indiyah Polack and Eddie Kadi, was a vibrant celebration of Black music and culture.
The official MOBO X account shared a post applauding Ayra Starr’s feat, “Global star, unstoppable force! 🌍✨ @ayrastarr took home Best African Music Act at the #MOBOAwards – repping African music at the highest level! 🔥🏆”
An Emotional Moment: Ayra Starr’s Acceptance Speech
Taking the stage to accept her award, a visibly moved Ayra Starr expressed her gratitude, saying, “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 Major Winners at the 2025 MOBO Awards
The ceremony also saw several other artists take home top honors. Among them, Darkoo secured the Best Female Act award. The MOBO X account celebrated her achievement with the post:
“From bangers to big wins! 🔥🏆 @Darkoo takes home the Best Female Act award at the #MOBOAwards – a well-deserved victory! 🙌”
Other winners of the night included Bashy, Darkoo, and Odeal, all recognized for their contributions to the music industry.
About the MOBO Awards
Established in 1996 by Kanya King, the MOBO Awards (Music of Black Origin Awards) honor outstanding talent across genres such as hip-hop, R&B, soul, reggae, jazz, gospel, and African music.
The platform has played a pivotal role in recognizing and elevating Black artists in the UK and worldwide.
Ayra Starr’s groundbreaking achievement further cements the growing global influence of African music, with the MOBOs once again spotlighting the genre’s undeniable impact.
