By our reporter 27.3.2026
Nigerian Afrobeats stars Wizkid and Ayra Starr made their presence felt at the 2026 MOBO Awards held in Manchester England.
Wizkid won the Best African Music Act award, beating fellow Nigerians Davido, Rema, Shallipopi, Tiwa Savage and Adekunle Gold, among others.
Ayra Starr clinched the Best International Act prize ahead of global stars such as Cardi B, Gunna and Kehlani. Ayra Starr was winning the award for the second time in a row, after becoming the first African woman to win the award last year.
Also, Nigerian-born British media personality Niko Omilana banked the Best Media Personality category award, beating nominees including Bemi Orojuogun, popularly known as Bus Aunty, and DJ Remi Burgz.
Beyond the wins, other celebrities of Nigerian descent also made the nominees list. German Nigerian singer Odeal was nominated for Best Male Act and Best R&B/Soul Act.
Album of the year – Olivia Dean for The Art of Loving
Song of the year – Olivia Dean for Man I Need
Video of the year – Raye for Where Is My Husband!
Best newcomer – DC3
Best hip-hop act – Central Cee
Best grime act – Chip
Best drill act – Twin S
Best R&B/Soul act – Flo
Best electronic act – Sherelle
Best gospel act – DC3
Best jazz act – Ezra Collective
Best producer – P2J
Best African music act – Wizkid
Best Caribbean music act – Vybz Kartel
Best alternative music act – Nova Twins
Best international act – Ayra Starr
Best media personality – Niko Omilana
Best performance in a TV show/ film – Stephen Graham for Adolescence
Lifetime achievement – Slick Rick
Global songwriter award – Pharrell Williams