Ayra Starr has become the first woman to win the Best African Act award at the MOBO Awards.

published by afolabi yusuf olayemi

Ayra Starr, a Nigerian artist, shared first place at the 2025 MOBO Awards, which took place Tuesday night in Newcastle’s Utilita Arena.

At the glamorous gala, the Mavin singer won two awards: Best International Act and Best African Act.

She defeated music titans Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion, Tems, Asake, and Tyla to win Best International Act.

She also defeated Asake, Rema, Tems, Burna Boy and Tyla to win the Best African Act award, becoming the first female winner of the category in 16 years.

British rapper, Central Cee became the joint most-decorated rapper in MOBOs history as he won Best Male Act for the record-breaking third year in a row.

British-Nigerian singer, Darkoo won the Best Female Act, over the likes of RAYE, Jorja Smith, Little Simz, Cleo Sol and Nia Archives