Nigerian stars Wizkid and Ayra Starr were among the winners at the 2026 MOBO Awards in Manchester, as British singer Olivia Dean emerged the biggest winner of the night.
The awards ceremony, held in March 26, 2026, at Manchester, United Kingdom, celebrated Black music and culture, bringing together global stars across music, film and entertainment, with Nigerians also making a strong showing.
Wizkid won the Best African Music Act award, beating fellow Nigerians Davido, Rema, Shallipopi, Tiwa Savage and Adekunle Gold. Ayra Starr also claimed the Best International Act award, ahead of global acts including Cardi B, Gunna and Kehlani.
British Nigerian media personality Niko Omilana also recorded a win, taking home the Best Media Personality award.
Despite the Nigerian wins, Olivia Dean stood out as the night’s top performer, winning three major awards, Album of the Year, Song of the Year and Best Female Act.
Other notable winners included Central Cee, RAYE and FLO, reflecting the diversity of talent celebrated at the event.
Beyond the winners, several individuals of Nigerian descent were recognised through nominations. German-Nigerian singer Odeal was nominated for Best Male Act and Best R&B/Soul Act.
In film and television, actors of Nigerian heritage such as Wunmi Mosaku, Damson Idris, Dayo Koleosho and Cynthia Erivo were also nominated in the Best Performance in a TV Show/Film category.
The 2026 edition marked 30 years of the MOBO Awards, highlighting its role in promoting Black music and culture globally. The ceremony featured performances from leading artistes and drew attention to the continued global influence of Black creatives.
The event also honoured industry icons, with Pharrell Williams receiving the MOBO Global Songwriter Award and Slick Rick presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Speaking on the milestone, MOBO founder Kanya King said, “Thirty years ago, the MOBO Organisation was born out of a desire to create space where there was none, to recognise, celebrate and elevate Black music and culture.”
She added, “This isn’t just a celebration of the past, it’s a statement about the future. MOBO remains an important platform, and we are more committed than ever to opening doors, breaking barriers and championing the voices that shape culture around the world.”
Nigerian music stars Wizkid and Ayra Starr were among the biggest winners at the 2026 MOBO Awards held in Manchester, United Kingdom, alongside media personality Niko Omilana.
The awards ceremony took place in Manchester and celebrated Black music and culture globally, with top international and British talents competing across multiple categories and delivering standout performances.
Wizkid clinched the Best African Music Act award, beating fellow Nigerian stars Davido, Rema, Shallipopi, Tiwa Savage and Adekunle Gold. Ayra Starr also secured a major win, taking home the Best International Act award ahead of global acts like Cardi B, Gunna and Kehlani.
British-Nigerian media personality Niko Omilana emerged winner of the Best Media Personality category, ahead of nominees including Bemi Orojuogun, also known as Bus Aunty, and DJ Remi Burgz.
Beyond the major wins, several celebrities of Nigerian descent earned nominations across categories. German-Nigerian singer Odeal was nominated for both Best Male Act and Best R&B/Soul Act.
In film and television, British actors of Nigerian descent including Wunmi Mosaku, Damson Idris, Dayo Koleosho and Cynthia Erivo were nominated in the Best Performance in a TV Show/Film category.
The 2026 edition of the MOBO Awards marked a significant milestone, celebrating 30 years of recognising Black music and culture. The event featured performances from top artists and brought together global stars across music, film and entertainment.
Among other top winners on the night, Olivia Dean dominated with three major awards, while artists like Central Cee, RAYE, Jim Legxacy and Stephen Graham also secured notable victories.
The ceremony also honoured industry legends, with Pharrell Williams receiving the MOBO Global Songwriter Award and Slick Rick awarded the MOBO Lifetime Achievement honour.
Speaking on the milestone, MOBO founder Kanya King said, “Thirty years ago, the MOBO Organisation was born out of a desire to create space where there was none, to recognise, celebrate and elevate Black music and culture.”
She added, “This isn’t just a celebration of the past, it’s a statement about the future. MOBO remains an important platform, and we are more committed than ever to opening doors, breaking barriers and championing the voices that shape culture around the world.”
Ademide Adebayo
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