- Ayra Starr Makes History at 2025 MOBO Awards with Two Major Wins
- She becomes first woman in 16 years to win the category
- Starr also secures Best International Music Act award
Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has etched her name in history at the 2025 MOBO Awards, becoming the first woman in 16 years to win the prestigious Best African Music Act category. In addition to this groundbreaking achievement, the talented artist also claimed the Best International Music Act award, further solidifying her global influence.
The award ceremony, which took place in Newcastle, saw Ayra Starr triumph over fellow Nigerian artists Asake and Tems, as well as South African music sensation Tyla, to secure the Best African Music Act title. She was also recognized in the Best International Music Act category, where she faced an impressive array of global superstars, including Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion, Tems, and Latto.
A visibly emotional Ayra Starr took to the stage to collect her award, overwhelmed with gratitude. In her speech, she thanked her fans, her team, and her record label, describing the moment as surreal and confessing that she was shaking with excitement.
“This is crazy, this is insane,” she said, as her excitement filled the room. “I’ve been waiting for this moment for so long, and now that it’s here, I can’t believe it.”
This year’s MOBO Awards marked Ayra Starr’s debut appearance at the event, making her win even more significant as it was also her first-ever set of awards.
The official MOBO Awards Twitter account quickly celebrated Ayra Starr’s accomplishment, calling her a global star and an unstoppable force representing African music on the world stage.
Hosted by Indiyah Polack and Eddie Kadi, the 2025 MOBO Awards honored the best in Black music and culture across genres such as hip-hop, R&B, soul, reggae, jazz, gospel, and Afrobeats.
Founded in 1996 by Kanya King, the MOBO Awards have remained one of the most prestigious platforms celebrating excellence in Black-origin music.
