Nigerian music heavyweights Wizkid and Ayra Starr, alongside British-Nigerian media personality Niko Omilana, emerged among the top winners at the 2026 edition of the MOBO Awards 2026 held in Manchester, United Kingdom.
Wizkid clinched the Best African Music Act award, edging out strong competition from fellow Nigerian stars including Davido, Rema, Shallipopi, Tiwa Savage, and Adekunle Gold.
Ayra Starr secured the Best International Act award, beating global contenders such as Cardi B, Gunna, and Kehlani, further cementing her rising international profile.
In the media category, Niko Omilana won Best Media Personality, ahead of nominees including Bemi Orojuogun, also known as Bus Aunty, and DJ Remi Burgz.
The 2026 ceremony, staged for the first time in Manchester, celebrated Black music and culture, drawing a wide range of global talents and industry figures.
Other artists of Nigerian descent also featured prominently among nominees. German-Nigerian singer Odeal received nominations for Best Male Act and Best R&B/Soul Act, while actors such as Wunmi Mosaku, Damson Idris, Dayo Koleosho, and Cynthia Erivo were recognised in the Best Performance in a TV Show/Film category.
Among other major winners on the night, Olivia Dean took home multiple awards, including Best Female Act, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year. Central Cee won Best Hip-Hop Act, while Flo secured Best R&B/Soul Act.
Additional winners included Nova Twins for Best Alternative Act, Chip for Best Grime Act, and Twin S for Best Drill Act.
In special recognition categories, Slick Rick received the MOBO Lifetime Achievement award, while Pharrell Williams was honoured as MOBO Global Songwriter.
The event once again highlighted the growing global influence of African and Black music, with Nigerian artists continuing to play a leading role on the international stage.
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