Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has made history by becoming the first female artist to win the Best African Music Act at the 2025 MOBO Awards. The event, held on Tuesday night at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, saw Ayra Starr emerging as the joint top winner, taking home two major awards—Best African Music Act and Best International Act.
Ayra Starr’s achievement is particularly significant as she triumphed over renowned global stars including Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion, Tems, Asake, and Tyla to clinch the Best International Act title. Her victory marks a major milestone in her career and a proud moment for the Nigerian music industry.
Reacting to the news on social media, Ayra Starr expressed her gratitude and excitement: “My king !!! Jesus! Thank you!!!!!” The heartfelt post resonated with her fans and followers, who celebrated her historic win.
British rapper Central Cee also made history at the MOBO Awards, becoming the joint most-decorated rapper in MOBOs history by winning Best Male Act for a record-breaking third consecutive year. Meanwhile, British-Nigerian singer Darkoo claimed the Best Female Act award, beating out competitors like RAYE, Jorja Smith, Little Simz, Cleo Sol, and Nia Archives.
The MOBO Awards celebrated the finest in Black music and culture, with various artists being recognized for their contributions. Nigerian-born singer Odeal took home the Best Newcomer award, while the three-man podcast 90sBabyShow won the Best Media Personality award.
Born Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, Ayra Starr rose to fame after her 2021 hit “Bloody Samaritan” went viral. Signed to Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records, she has become a prominent figure in the industry, earning numerous awards and nominations for her talent.
The full list of MOBO Award winners includes:
- Best Male Act: Central Cee
- Best Female Act: Darkoo
- Album of the Year: Bashy – “Being Poor Is Expensive”
- Song of the Year: Darkoo Feat. Dess Dior – “Favourite Girl”
- Best Newcomer: Odeal
- Video of the Year: Mnelia – “My Man” (Directed By Femi Bello)
- Best R&B/Soul Act: Odeal
- Best Alternative Music Act: ALT BLK ERA
- Best Grime Act: Scorcher
- Best Hip Hop Act: Bashy
- Best Drill Act: Pozer
- Best International Act: Ayra Starr
- Best African Music Act: Ayra Starr
- Best Caribbean Music Act: Shenseea
- Best Jazz Act: Ezra Collective
- Best Electronic/Dance Act: Tsha
- Best Producer: Juls
- Best Gospel Act: Annatoria
As Ayra Starr continues to break barriers and achieve remarkable success, her journey serves as an inspiration to many aspiring artists. Her historic wins at the 2025 MOBO Awards highlight the growing influence of African music on the global stage.
