Nigerian music stars Wizkid and Ayra Starr, alongside British-Nigerian media personality Niko Omilana, were among the major winners at the MOBO Awards held in Manchester.
Gatekeepers News reports that Wizkid secured the Best African Music Act award after beating a strong field that included Davido, Rema, Shallipopi, Tiwa Savage and Adekunle Gold.
Ayra Starr also recorded a major win on the night, claiming the Best International Act award ahead of global stars such as Cardi B, Gunna and Kehlani.
In the media category, Niko Omilana was named Best Media Personality, beating nominees including Bemi Orojuogun, popularly known as Bus Aunty, and DJ Remi Burgz.
Beyond the wins, several other personalities of Nigerian descent were recognised among the nominees. German-Nigerian singer Odeal earned nominations for Best Male Act and Best R&B/Soul Act.
British actors of Nigerian heritage also featured in the nominations for Best Performance in a TV Show/Film, including Wunmi Mosaku, Damson Idris, Dayo Koleosho and Cynthia Erivo.
The 2026 edition of the MOBO Awards — the first to be staged in Manchester — celebrated Black music and culture, with a wide range of international artists honoured during the ceremony.
Full List of Winners — 2026 MOBO Awards
- Best Male Act: Jim Legxacy
- Best Female Act: Olivia Dean
- Album of the Year: Olivia Dean – The Art Of Loving
- Song of the Year: Olivia Dean – Man I Need
- Best Newcomer: DC3
- Video of the Year: RAYE
- Best R&B / Soul Act: Flo
- Best Alternative Music Act: Nova Twins
- Best Grime Act: Chip
- Best Hip-Hop Act: Central Cee
- Best Drill Act: Twin S
- Best International Act: Ayra Starr
- Best Media Personality: Niko Omilana
- Best Performance in a TV Show / Film: Stephen Graham
- Best African Music Act: Wizkid
- Best Caribbean Music Act: Vybz Kartel
- Best Jazz Act: Ezra Collective
- Best Electronic Act: Sherelle
- Best Gospel Act: DC3
- Best Producer: P2J
Special Awards
- MOBO Lifetime Achievement: Slick Rick
- MOBO Global Songwriter: Pharrell Williams
