Ayra Starr and Asake Earn 2025 MOBO Awards Nominations
Nigerian music sensations Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, and Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, also known as Ayra Starr, have earned prestigious nominations at the 2025 Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards. The duo has been recognized in the Best International Act category, sharing the spotlight with global heavyweights like Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, and Kendrick Lamar. The nominations were announced on Wednesday as part of the official 2025 shortlist.
The MOBO Awards, which celebrate excellence in Black music and culture, have also recognized seven Nigerian artistes in the Best African Music Act category. Among them are rising stars like Odumodublvck, Rema, and Shallipopi, alongside industry icons Asake, Ayra Starr, and Tems.
South African artist Tyla, who claimed the Best New Artist title at the 2024 BET Awards, has made waves by securing nominations in both the Best International Act and Best African Music Act categories.
Central Cee Eyes Historic Win
West London rapper Central Cee is poised to make history at this year’s MOBO Awards. According to a BBC report, Central Cee could become the first artist to win the Best Male Artist title three times. Currently tied with Stormzy at two wins each, both artists have been shortlisted again this year, fueling anticipation in the music community.
MOBO 2025 Nomination Highlights
Best International Act
- Asake
- Ayra Starr
- Beyoncé
- Nicki Minaj
- Kendrick Lamar
- Tems
- Tyla
- Megan Thee Stallion
- Glorilla
- Latto
Best African Music Act
- Asake (Nigeria)
- Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
- Rema (Nigeria)
- Shallipopi (Nigeria)
- Tems (Nigeria)
- Odumodublvck (Nigeria)
- King Promise (Ghana)
- Tyla (South Africa)
- Uncle Waffles (South Africa)
- Bnxn & Ruger (Nigeria)
Album of the Year
- Bashy – Being Poor Is Expensive
- Cleo Sol – Gold
- Ghetts – On Purpose, With Purpose
- Jorja Smith – Falling Or Flying
- Sampha – Lahai
- Skrapz – Reflection
Song of the Year
- Central Cee Feat. Lil Baby – Band4band
- Chase & Status, Stormzy – Backbone
- Darkoo Feat. Dess Dior – Favourite Girl
- Jordan Adetunji – Kehlani
- Leostaytrill – Pink Lemonade
- Odeal – Soh-Soh
This year’s MOBO Awards promise to showcase the best in Black music globally, with a strong African presence signaling the continent’s growing influence on the international stage.
