2025 MOBO Awards, Ayra Starr Makes History as First Female Best African Act Winner in 16 Years
Ayra Starr has become the first woman in 16 years to win the Best African Music Act award at the 2025 MOBO Awards. The Nigerian singer also took home the Best International Music Act award at the ceremony held in Newcastle.
Ayra Starr’s Historic Win
Ayra Starr joins Wizkid (2017, 2021) and Burna Boy (2020, 2022) as the only Nigerian artists to have won the MOBO Award for Best International Act.
Celebrating Black Music and Culture
The event, hosted by Indiyah Polack and Eddie Kadi, celebrated the best of Black music and culture. Ayra Starr’s win was announced on the official MOBO X account, praising her as a “global star” and “unstoppable force.”
Other Notable Winners
Other big winners at the 2025 MOBO Awards included Bashy, Darkoo, and Odeal. Darkoo also secured the Best Female Act award.
The MOBO Awards Legacy
The MOBO Awards (Music of Black Origin Awards) is an annual British music ceremony that honors excellence in music of Black origin. Founded in 1996 by Kanya King, the awards have been instrumental in celebrating and recognizing Black artists in the UK and globally.
With Ayra Starr’s historic win, the MOBOs continue to showcase the undeniable influence of African music on the global stage.