Nigerian singer Ayra Starr claimed two major awards at the 2025 MOBO Awards, held in Newcastle, United Kingdom.
The MOBO Awards, which celebrate “music of Black origin,” recognized Aura 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’.
The MOBO Awards (Music of Black Origin Awards) is an annual British music ceremony that honours excellence in music of Black origin, spanning genres such as hip-hop, R&B, soul, reggae, jazz, gospel, and African music.
