Nigerian Stars Triumph at 2026 MOBO Awards in Manchester
The 2026 MOBO Awards, held for the first time in Manchester, United Kingdom, saw a significant celebration of Nigerian talent, with music icons Wizkid and Ayra Starr, along with British-Nigerian media personality Niko Omilana, clinching prestigious awards. This event underscored the global influence of Nigerian artists and personalities in Black music and culture.
Major Wins for Nigerian Artists
Wizkid emerged victorious in the Best African Music Act category, triumphing over a competitive field that included fellow Nigerian stars Davido, Rema, Shallipopi, Tiwa Savage, and Adekunle Gold. This win reinforces Wizkid's enduring impact on the African music scene.
Ayra Starr claimed the Best International Act award, outperforming global heavyweights such as Cardi B, Gunna, and Kehlani. Her achievement highlights the rising prominence of Nigerian artists on the international stage.
Niko Omilana secured the Best Media Personality prize, beating nominees like Bemi Orojuogun (known as Bus Aunty) and DJ Remi Burgz. This win showcases the diverse contributions of Nigerian diaspora figures in media and entertainment.
Notable Nominations and Broader Recognition
Beyond the winners, several other individuals of Nigerian descent received nominations, reflecting the depth of talent. German-Nigerian singer Odeal was nominated for Best Male Act and Best R&B/Soul Act, while British actors of Nigerian heritage, including Wunmi Mosaku, Damson Idris, Dayo Koleosho, and Cynthia Erivo, were recognized in the Best Performance in a TV Show/Film category.
The awards ceremony honored a wide array of artists across genres, with winners such as Olivia Dean taking home multiple accolades, including Album of the Year and Song of the Year. Other notable winners included Central Cee for Best Hip-Hop Act, Flo for Best R&B/Soul Act, and Ezra Collective for Best Jazz Act.
Full List of Winners at the 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 – Where Is My Husband!
- 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
- MOBO Lifetime Achievement: Slick Rick
- MOBO Global Songwriter: Pharrell Williams
The 2026 MOBO Awards not only celebrated musical excellence but also highlighted the cultural contributions of Nigerian and diaspora artists, marking a memorable night for Black entertainment globally.
