Ayra Starr Makes History with Double Win at MOBO Awards, Cementing Her Status as Africa’s Rising Music Sensation
The prestigious Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards, a global celebration of musical excellence, has once again highlighted the extraordinary talent of African artists on the world stage.
At this year’s ceremony, held on February 19 in Newcastle, United Kingdom, Nigeria’s Ayra Starr (Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe) stole the spotlight by making history with two major wins: ‘Best African Music Act’ and ‘Best International Act.’
Starr’s double victory marks a significant milestone, as she became the first female artist to win the ‘Best International Act’ award and the first woman in 16 years to claim the ‘Best African Music Act’ prize.
This achievement cements her position as one of Africa’s most dynamic and promising young talents.
In the fiercely competitive ‘Best International Act’ category, Starr triumphed over global heavyweights such as Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, Nicki Minaj, Megan Thee Stallion, and fellow African stars Tems and Asake.
For the ‘Best African Music Act’ award, she outshined Grammy winner Tems, Grammy-nominated Rema, Asake, Tyla, and other notable contenders like Shallipopi, Bnxn, Ruger, and Uncle Waffles.
Expressing her gratitude, the ‘Away’ and ’19 & Dangerous’ hitmaker dedicated her wins to her fans and the African music industry. “Winning these awards means so much to me. I want to thank my fans, my team, and everyone who has supported my journey. This is for African music and for all the women pushing boundaries,” she said.
The 2025 MOBO Awards also celebrated other standout talents. Nigerian-British rapper Darkoo clinched the ‘Best Female Act’ award, while Central Cee won ‘Best Male Act.’ The ‘Best Media Personality’ award went to the three-man podcast ’90sbabyshow’, and Nigerian-born singer Odeal was honored as ‘Best Newcomer.’
Ayra Starr’s rise to global stardom has been nothing short of remarkable. Beginning her career as a model in 2018, she worked with agencies like Quove Models and brands such as Mazelle Studio and Complete Fashion Magazine. In 2019, she transitioned to music, gaining attention with her covers of songs by artists like Andra Day and 2Face Idibia. Her original track ‘Damage’, uploaded to Instagram that same year, caught the attention of Mavin Records CEO Don Jazzy, leading to her signing with the label.
Under Mavin Records, Starr became a viral sensation with her 2021 hit ‘Bloody Samaritan’ and achieved international acclaim with ‘Rush’ in 2022. The track charted in multiple countries, including the UK, Switzerland, and Ireland, and earned her a nomination at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards for Best African Music Performance.
With her historic MOBO wins and a growing list of accolades, Ayra Starr continues to break barriers and solidify her reputation as one of Africa’s most influential and groundbreaking artists on the global stage.
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