Nigerian music stars have once again made a strong showing in the 2026 Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards nominations, highlighting the country’s global impact in music.
Wizkid, Davido, Tiwa Savage, Rema, Ayra Starr, Adekunle Gold, and Shallipopi were all nominated in the Best African Music Act category, alongside Joshua Baraka, Moliy, and South African singer Tyla, the awards’ official Instagram page revealed on Thursday.
Ayra Starr also secured a nomination in the Best International Act category, competing with international heavyweights like Cardi B, Gunna, Kehlani, and Vybz Kartel.
Other notable nominations 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
The awards also recognize talent in categories such as 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, and honors for Best Performance in a TV Show/Film and Best Media Personality.
The MOBO Awards continue to celebrate excellence in Black music and entertainment, both in Africa and across the globe. The full list of nominees is available on MOBO’s official Instagram page.