Nigerian singer Ayra Starr claimed two major awards at the 2025 MOBO Awards, held on Wednesday in Newcastle, United Kingdom.
The MOBO Awards, which celebrate “music of Black origin,” recognized Starr as the ‘Best International Act’, making her the first African female to win the category. She also took home the ‘Best African Music Act’ award—becoming the first female winner in 16 years.
Other winners included Darkoo, a Nigerian-British rapper, who won ‘Best Female Act’, while Central Cee secured the ‘Best Male Act’ award. The popular podcast 90s Baby Show was named ‘Best Media Personality’, and Nigerian-born singer Odeal won ‘Best Newcomer’.
Born Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, Ayra Starr rose to prominence with her 2021 hit song ‘Bloody Samaritan’ under Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records. Since then, she has become a leading voice in African music, earning numerous awards and nominations for her work.
