By Ruth Gbaka
Nigerian singer Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, achieved a historic milestone at the 2025 MOBO Awards held in Newcastle, United Kingdom.
She became the first woman in 16 years to win the Best African Music Act award and the first African female artist to secure the Best International Act title.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Ayra Starr expressed gratitude to her supporters, stating, “This is my first MOBO. I am actually shaking right now. Thank you so much to everybody who supported me—my team, my amazing MOB-STARS, my label MAVINS, my producers, my mother. Thank you, MOBOs.”
These accolades underscore Ayra Starr’s rising prominence in the global music scene, following her breakthrough with the 2021 hit single “Bloody Samaritan” under Mavin Records.
Her innovative blend of Afrobeats and R&B continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
