Nigerian sensation Ayra Starr has etched her name in history by winning the Best African Music Act at the 2025 MOBO Awards, becoming the first woman in 16 years to clinch the prestigious award.
Adding to her triumph, she also secured the Best International Music Act award at the grand event held in Newcastle, UK.
A Tough Competition
Ayra Starr’s victory was no small feat, as she surpassed fellow Nigerian artists Asake and Tems, along with South Africa’s Tyla, to win the Best African Music Act category.
For the Best International Music Act, Tyla, who was also nominated, went head-to-head with global icons like Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion, Tems, and Latto, ultimately emerging as the winner.
Celebrating Black Music and Culture
The 2025 MOBO Awards, hosted by Indiyah Polack and Eddie Kadi, celebrated the best of Black music and culture. Recognizing talent across various genres such as hip-hop, R&B, soul, reggae, jazz, gospel, and African music, the MOBOs continue to be a landmark event in the global music industry.
“Global star, unstoppable force! @ayrastarr took home Best African Music Act at the #MOBOAwards – repping African music at the highest level!” – MOBO Awards Official X Account
An Emotional Victory Speech
In her acceptance speech, a visibly emotional Ayra Starr expressed her gratitude:
“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 went on to thank her supporters, team, and family:
“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.”
About the MOBO Awards
Founded in 1996 by Kanya King, the MOBO Awards (Music of Black Origin Awards) is an annual British music ceremony that honours excellence in Black-origin music worldwide. Over the years, it has become a pivotal platform celebrating the impact of Black music and its artists across the globe.
With her double win, Ayra Starr has not only made history but has also set the stage for more African artists to shine on the global music scene.
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