Full List Out: Nigerian Stars Shine Bright In 2026 MOBO Nominations

Nigerian music stars Ayra Starr, Davido, Wizkid, and Tiwa Savage have secured nominations for the 2026 MOBO Awards, underscoring Nigeria’s growing influence on the global Black music stage.

The nominations were announced on Thursday, covering 20 categories ahead of the awards ceremony scheduled for March 26, 2026, at Co-op Live, Manchester. This year’s event is historic, marking the first time the MOBO Awards will be held in Manchester and coinciding with the organisation’s 30th anniversary.

In the Best African Music Act category, Davido, Wizkid, and Tiwa Savage will compete against fellow Nigerians Ayra Starr, Rema, Shallipopi, and Adekunle Gold. Other nominees include Ghana’s Moliy, Uganda’s Joshua Baraka, and South Africa’s Tyla, reflecting African music’s global reach.

Ayra Starr stands out with nominations in both the Best African Music Act and Best International Act categories. In the latter, she will compete with international stars such as Cardi B, Kehlani, Gunna, and Vybz Kartel. Tyla and Moliy also received nominations in both categories.

Ayra Starr has previously made MOBO history. At the 2025 awards, she became the first woman in 16 years to win Best African Music Act, also clinching the Best International Music Act award.

The MOBO Awards, regarded as Europe’s premier celebration of Black music and culture, recognise outstanding talent and releases from September 1, 2024, to October 1, 2025.

Speaking on the 2026 nominations, MOBO founder and CEO Kanya King CBE said the shortlist reflects the strength, diversity, and global influence of Black music.

“As MOBO enters its 30th year, this year’s nominees reflect the culture and moment we are living in. Their voices matter—not only in how they soundtrack our lives, but in how they shape the future,” King said.

She added that the nominations highlight one of the strongest and most diverse showcases of Black British music excellence in years, while emphasising the awards’ growing international reach.

Top Nominees

Leading the 2026 nominations are Little Simz, Olivia Dean, KWN, and Jim Legxacy, each securing four nominations. Central Cee, Skepta, PinkPantheress, and FLO follow closely with three nominations each across major categories.

The awards will also honour achievements in film, television, and media. Nominees for Best Performance in a TV Show/Film include Cynthia Erivo for Wicked, Ashley Walters and Stephen Graham for Netflix’s Adolescence, and Nigerian-British actress Wunmi Mosaku for Sinners.

The ceremony will be preceded by the MOBO Fringe Festival, a week-long cultural programme organised with Manchester City Council, featuring live performances, industry panels, and creative workshops. Hosts, performers, and special honourees will be announced in the coming weeks.

Selected Key 2026 MOBO Nominations:

Best African Music Act:

• Ayra Starr (Nigeria)

• Davido (Nigeria)

• Wizkid (Nigeria)

• Tiwa Savage (Nigeria)

• Rema (Nigeria)

• Adekunle Gold (Nigeria)

• Shallipopi (Nigeria)

• Joshua Baraka (Uganda)

• Moliy (Ghana)

• Tyla (South Africa)

Best International Act:

• Ayra Starr

• Cardi B

• Kehlani

• Gunna

• Vybz Kartel

• Clipse

• Leon Thomas

• Mariah the Scientist

• Moliy

• Tyla

Other Highlights:

• Best Male Act: Central Cee, Skepta, Jim Legxacy

• Best Female Act: Little Simz, Olivia Dean, FLO, KWN

• Best Song of the Year: AJ Tracey feat. Jorja Smith – Crush

• Best Video: Pozer – Shanghigh Noon, FKA Twigs – Eusexua

• Best Performance in TV/Film: Cynthia Erivo – Wicked, Wunmi Mosaku – Sinners

The 2026 MOBO Awards promise a powerful showcase of African and global Black music, celebrating both rising stars and established icons on the world stage.