MOBO Awards 2026: Ayra Starr, Wizkid, and More Make The List (FULL LIST)

Gift Davies 18:01 - 15 January 2026

Nigerian artists score nominations at the 2026 MOBO Awards, including Ayra Starr, Wizkid, Davido, Tiwa Savage, Rema, and Adekunle Gold. See the full list of nominees below.

The MOBO Awards (Music of Black Origin) have released the full nomination list ahead of the ceremony in a few months. Established in 1996 by Kanya King, the MOBOs celebrate exceptional achievements in music of Black origin, including hip hop, grime, R&B, soul, reggae, jazz, gospel, Afrobeats, and drill.

Over the past 30 years, the awards have provided a mainstream platform for Black artists in Europe, helping launch and solidify careers across continents. This year, as the MOBO Awards mark their 30th anniversary, Nigerian talent is prominently featured among the nominees, reflecting the country’s continued dominance in global music. The ceremony will take place in Manchester for the first time on March 26, 2026, celebrating three decades of music, culture, and excellence.

Nigerian Nominees at the 2026 MOBO Awards

Ayra Starr leads the pack for Nigeria, scoring two nominations: Best International Act and Best African Music Act. The star joins African peers, including Tyla and Moliy, in both categories. Last year, Ayra Starr took home both awards, and we are eager to see if she can repeat her feat.

Other Nigerian artists nominated for Best African Music Act include:

Adekunle Gold
Davido
Rema
Shallipopi
Tiwa Savage
Wizkid

All of these artists have been recognised by MOBO in previous years, highlighting their sustained influence on the international music scene.

In addition to performers, P2J has earned a nod for Best Producer, while media personality Bemi Orojuogun (Bus Aunty) is nominated for Best Media Personality, representing Nigeria beyond the music stage.

What the Founder Says

Reflecting on the milestone, Kanya King said:

“As MOBO enters its 30th year, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary breadth of talent we have championed over the past three decades. Time and again, artists have taken the recognition of a MOBO Award and transformed it into fuel for lasting success.”

Her words emphasise the importance of the MOBOs in providing exposure and credibility to Black talent globally, including Nigeria’s vibrant Afrobeats scene.

Full List of Nominees

Best Male Act

Central Cee
Elmiene
Jim Legxacy
Nemzzz
Odeal
Skepta

Best Female Act

Flo
Kwn
Little Simz
Olivia Dean
Pinkpantheress
Sasha Keable

Album Of The Year

Central Cee – Can’t Rush Greatness
Ezra Collective – Dance, No Ones Watching
Flo – Access All Areas
Kojey Radical – Don’t Look Down
Little Simz – Lotus
Olivia Dean – The Art Of Loving

Song Of The Year

AJ Tracey Feat. Jorja Smith – ‘crush’
Donae’o Feat. Omar, Lemar & House Gospel Choir – ‘nights like this’
Fred Again, Skepta & Plaqueboymax – ‘victory lap’
Jim Legxacy & Dave – ‘3x’
Kwn – ‘do what I say’
Myles Smith – ‘nice to meet you’
Olivia Dean – ‘man I need’
Pinkpantheress – ‘illegal’
Raye – ‘where is my husband!’
Tim Duzit – ‘kat slater’

Best Newcomer

Dc3
Esdeekid
Finessekid
Jim Legxacy
Kwn
Namesbliss
Nia Smith
Sekou
Skye Newman
Yt

Video Of The Year

Pozer – ‘shanghigh noon’ (Directed By Bas Haselager)
Fka Twigs – ‘eusexua’ (Directed By Jordan Hemingway)
Jim Legxacy – ‘father’ (Directed By Lauzza)
Little Simz – ‘flood’ Feat. Obongjayar & Moonchild Sanelly (Directed By Salomon Ligthelm)
Raye – ‘where is my husband!’ (Directed By The Reids)
Skepta & Fred Again – ‘back 2 back’ (Directed By Domamanic And Skepta)