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Nigerian Artists Dominate 2026 MOBO Awards
Nigerian stars Ayra Starr, Davido, Wizkid and Tiwa Savage earned nominations for the 2026 MOBO Awards. Their recognition shows the strong influence of Nigerian music on the global Black music scene.
Organisers confirmed the nominations on Thursday. The ceremony will take place on March 26, 2026, at Co-op Live in Manchester. It is also the first time the MOBO Awards will be held in Manchester and it marks the event’s 30th anniversary.
Strong Showing in Best African Music Act Category
Ayra Starr, Davido, Wizkid and Tiwa Savage will compete in the Best African Music Act category. They will face fellow Nigerians Rema, Shallipopi and Adekunle Gold. Meanwhile, Ghana’s Moliy, Uganda’s Joshua Baraka and South Africa’s Tyla complete the shortlist. The large number of Nigerian nominees highlights the global reach of Afrobeats.
Ayra Starr Gains Two Major Nominations
Ayra Starr also secured a nomination for Best International Act. In that category, she will compete against Cardi B, Kehlani, Gunna and Vybz Kartel. Tyla and Moliy also earned two nominations each.
Ayra Starr made history in 2025 when she became the first woman in 16 years to win Best African Music Act. She also won Best International Music Act that year.
MOBO Celebrates 30 Years of Black Music
The MOBO Awards honour outstanding Black music releases from September 1, 2024 to October 1, 2025. According to MOBO founder and CEO Kanya King, this year’s nominees reflect the strength and cultural impact of Black music. She added that the shortlist also shows the growing international reach of the awards.
Leading Nominees Across Categories
Little Simz, Olivia Dean, Kwn and Jim Legxacy lead with four nominations each. Central Cee, Skepta, PinkPantheress and FLO follow with three nominations. The awards will also recognise achievements in film, television and media. Nominees include Cynthia Erivo for Wicked and Wunmi Mosaku for Sinners.
MOBO Fringe Festival to Precede Ceremony
Before the ceremony, the MOBO Fringe Festival will run for one week in partnership with Manchester City Council. The programme will host live performances, industry panels and workshops. Hosts and performers for the main event will be announced soon.
