Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has won the Best African Music Act at the 2025 MOBO Awards, becoming the first woman in 16 years to claim the prestigious title.
The music sensation also secured the Best International Music Act award at the event, which was held in Newcastle.
Ayra Starr triumphed over fellow Nigerian artists Asake and Tems, as well as South Africa’s Tyla, to win the Best African Music Act category.
Meanwhile, for Best International Music Act, Tyla edged out global superstars, including Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion, and Tems.
The MOBO Awards, hosted by Indiyah Polack and Eddie Kadi, celebrate the best of Black music and culture.
Following her historic win, the official MOBO X account posted: “Global star, unstoppable force! @ayrastarr took home Best African Music Act at the #MOBOAwards – repping African music at the highest level!”
In her emotional acceptance speech, Ayra Starr expressed gratitude to her supporters, team, and record label, MAVIN Records.
“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,” she said. She went on to thank her “amazing MOB-STARS,” music producers, studio partners, and her mother.
The MOBO Awards (Music of Black Origin Awards), founded in 1996 by Kanya King, honor excellence in Black music across genres such as hip-hop, R&B, soul, reggae, jazz, gospel, and African music. Ayra Starr’s victory solidifies her place as one of Africa’s leading musical talents on the global stage.