Several Nigerian music stars have been nominated for the 2026 Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards, showcasing the country’s growing influence in global music. Wizkid, Davido, Tiwa Savage, Rema, Ayra Starr, Adekunle Gold, and Shallipopi were all shortlisted in the Best African Music Act category, alongside Joshua Baraka, Moliy, and South African singer Tyla, according to the official nominations shared on Thursday via MOBO’s Instagram page. Ayra Starr also secured a nod in the Best International Act category, competing with global heavyweights including Cardi B, Gunna, Kehlani, and Vybz Kartel. Other notable nominees include: 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 One’s 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 ft. Jorja Smith – Crush, Fred Again, Skepta & Plaqueboymax – Victory Lap, Jim Legxacy & Dave – 3x, Olivia Dean – Man I Need, Pinkpantheress – Illegal, Raye – Where Is My Husband! Best Newcomer: DC3, EsDeeKid, Finessekid, Jim Legxacy, Kwn, Namesbliss, Nia Smith, Sekou, Skye Newman, YT Additional categories cover Video of the Year, Best R&B/Soul Act, Best Alternative Music Act, Best Grime Act, Best Hip-Hop Act, Best Drill Act, Best Caribbean Music Act, Best Jazz Act, Best Electronic Act, Best Gospel Act, Best Producer, as well as Best Performance in a TV Show/Film and Best Media Personality. The MOBO Awards continue to highlight Black talent worldwide, celebrating achievements across African and international music scenes. The complete nominations list is available on the official MOBO Instagram page.
