Wizkid, Davido, Ayra Starr, Rema, Tiwa Savage, and other Nigerian stars receive nominations for the 2026 MOBO Awards in Manchester

Nigeria’s music stars have secured nominations for the 2026 Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards, set to celebrate three decades of Black music and culture.

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Leading the nominations are Wizkid, Davido, Ayra Starr, Rema, Tiwa Savage, Adekunle Gold, and Shallipopi, shortlisted in the Best African Music Act category.

Ayra Starr has also been nominated for Best International Act, competing alongside global stars including Cardi B, Gunna, Kehlani, and Vybz Kartel.

The 2026 MOBO Awards will take place on 26 March at Co-op Live in Manchester, marking the event’s 30th anniversary.

In addition to the African and international music categories, the awards will recognise achievements across multiple genres, including Best Male Act, Best Female Act, Best R&B/Soul Act, Best Hip-Hop Act, Best Drill Act, Best Alternative Music Act, Best Jazz Act, and Best Gospel Act.

Nigerian nominees dominate several categories, reflecting the growing global influence of the country’s music industry.

Other categories include Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Video of the Year, Best Producer, Best Media Personality, and Best Performance in a TV Show or Film, with both African and international talent represented.

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The MOBO Awards, widely regarded as one of the most prestigious platforms for celebrating Black talent, provide an opportunity for Nigerian artists to gain international recognition and further strengthen their global presence.