Wizkid Wins Best African Music Act at 2026 MOBO Awards

Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Wizkid has won the Best African Music Act award at the 2026 MOBO Awards, marking his seventh career victory at the prestigious ceremony and further solidifying his status as a trailblazer for African music on the global stage.

The announcement came during the 28th edition of the MOBO Awards, held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester—the first time the event has taken place in the city. Hosted by hip-hop icon Eve and comedian Eddie Kadi, the night celebrated 30 years of the MOBO Organisation’s commitment to Black music and culture, with live performances and a star-studded lineup.

Wizkid, born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, edged out a competitive field of nominees that included fellow Nigerians Davido, Rema, Shallipopi, Tiwa Savage, and Adekunle Gold, as well as South African sensation Tyla and others. His win highlights the continued dominance of Afrobeats, a genre he helped propel to international prominence with hits like “Essence,” which became a global anthem during the pandemic.

This latest accolade adds to Wizkid’s impressive MOBO tally. He first won in the category back in 2011, making this triumph a full-circle moment roughly 15 years later. Industry observers note that his repeated success underscores not just commercial achievements but his role as a pioneer who bridged African sounds with Western audiences long before the current wave of global recognition.

The 2026 ceremony also saw strong showings from other Nigerian talents, with Ayra Starr securing a major international honor. The event was live-streamed via Amazon Music UK on Twitch, and a recap program aired on BBC One the following evening.

The MOBO Awards continue to serve as a key platform for highlighting Black and African musical contributions, with this year’s Manchester edition drawing attention to the genre’s evolving global footprint.

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