Wizkid MOBO Awards 2026 win leads Nigerian stars as Ayra Starr and Niko Omilana also secure major honours in Manchester
Wizkid, Ayra Starr and Niko Omilana emerged as top winners at the MOBO Awards 2026, reinforcing Nigeria’s growing influence on the global entertainment stage.
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Wizkid clinched the Best African Music Act award, outperforming a strong lineup of Nigerian nominees including Davido, Rema, Shallipopi, Tiwa Savage and Adekunle Gold. The win marks another powerful milestone in Wizkid’s international career.
Ayra Starr secured the Best International Act category, edging out global music stars including Cardi B, Gunna and Kehlani. The recognition highlights her rapid rise as one of Africa’s leading music exports.
Niko Omilana won the Best Media Personality award, defeating nominees such as Bemi Orojuogun, popularly known as Bus Aunty, and DJ Remi Burgz.
His victory reflects the increasing global visibility of British-Nigerian creatives across media platforms.
The 2026 edition of the MOBO Awards, staged for the first time in Manchester, celebrated Black music and culture with a diverse mix of international talents. The event delivered a vibrant showcase of creativity, diversity and cultural pride.
Other talents of Nigerian descent also received nominations. Odeal earned nods in the Best Male Act and Best R&B/Soul Act categories.
In film and television, Wunmi Mosaku, Damson Idris, Dayo Koleosho and Cynthia Erivo were recognised in the Best Performance in a TV Show or Film category.
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The wins by Wizkid, Ayra Starr and Niko Omilana underscore a defining moment for Nigerian talent, as the country continues to shape global conversations in music, media and entertainment.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
