Nigerian music star Ayra Starr has etched her name in the record books, becoming the first female artiste in 16 years to win the Best African Music Act at the 2025 MOBO Awards.
The award ceremony, which recognises excellence in Black music and culture, took place in Newcastle, United Kingdom.
The ‘Rush’ crooner didn’t stop at just one win—she also bagged the Best International Music Act award, joining the league of Nigerian superstars like Wizkid and Burna Boy who have previously taken home the same international honour.
A night of celebration
The MOBO Awards, hosted by British media personalities Indiyah Polack and Eddie Kadi, brought together top artistes from across the globe, shining a spotlight on the impact of Black music worldwide. It was a night of glamour, excitement, and unforgettable performances.
Ayra Starr, born Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, has been making waves in the music industry since her breakout hit ‘Away’ in 2021.
The 22-year-old singer, signed to MAVIN Records, has solidified her place as one of Afrobeats’ most powerful voices, blending youthful energy with a signature sound that resonates across continents.
A moment of emotion
Stepping onto the MOBO stage to receive her award, Ayra Starr was visibly emotional, In her heartfelt speech, she said, “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. 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…”
See the full list of winners below:
Full List of Winners – MOBO Awards 2025
Best Male Act: Central Cee
Best Female Act: Darkoo
Best Newcomer: Odeal
Album of the Year: Bashy – Being Poor Is Expensive
Song of the Year: Darkoo – Favourite Girl (ft. Dess Dior)
Video of the Year: Mnelia – My Man (directed by Femi Bello)
Best Hip-Hop Act: Bashy
Best Grime Act: Scorcher
Best Drill Act: Pozer
Best R&B/Soul Act: Odeal
Best Media Personality: 90s Baby Show
Best African Music Act: Ayra Starr
Best Performance in a TV Show/Film: Jacob Anderson as Louis in Interview With the Vampire
Best Electronic/Dance Music Act: TSHA
Best Gospel Act: Annatoria
Best Jazz Act: Ezra Collective
Best Producer: Juls
Best Caribbean Music Act: Shenseea
Best Alternative Music Act: ALT BLK ERA
Best International Act: Ayra Starr
MOBO Paving the Way Award: Denise Lewis
MOBO Impact Award: Vybz Kartel
