See Highlights from the 2025 MOBO Awards + Full List of Winners

26 February 2025 Leave a comment

Last night was a night to remember for Nigerian-British star Darkoo, and Ayra Starr. The stars took home awards at the 27th MOBO Awards, held at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena. The ceremony, which celebrates music of Black origin across genres like hip hop, R&B, Afrobeats, jazz, and grime, brought together some of the biggest names in the industry for a night of wins, emotional speeches, and more.

Darkoo walked away with Best Female Act, her first ever MOBO win, and also won Song of the Year for “Favourite Girl” featuring Dess Dior. In her speech, Darkoo thanked God, her parents, her team, and her fans for their support.

“I just want to say thank you to God. Big up my mum, my dad, for loving me, for accepting me. Big up my team, thank you for believing in me. Thank you to my fans, thank you so much.”

Watch her acceptance speech below:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGO79QCou2Y/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Afrobeats star Ayra Starr made history as the first woman in 16 years to win Best African Music Act. She did not stop there as she also won Best International Act. In her speech, she thanked everyone who had supported and believed in her.

Watch Darkoo’s performance

Watch Odeal’s performance

See the full list of winners from the 2025 MOBO Awards:

Best male act

Bashy
Winner: Central Cee
D-Block Europe
Ghetts
Nemzzz
Sampha

Best female act

Cleo Sol
Winner: Darkoo
Jorja Smith
Little Simz
Nia Archives
Raye

Album of the year

Winner: 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”
WINNER: Darkoo Feat. Dess Dior – “Favourite Girl”
Jordan Adetunji – “Kehlani”
Leostaytrill – “Pink Lemonade”
Odeal – “Soh-soh”

Best newcomer

Chy Cartier
Elmiene
Fimiguerrero
Flowerovlove
Jordan Adetunji
Len
Leostaytrill
Myles Smith
Winner: Odeal
Pozer

Video of the year

Meekz – “Mini Me’s” (Directed By Kc Locke)
Winner: Mnelia – “My Man” (Directed By Femi Bello)
Raye – “Genesis” (Directed By Otis Dominique & Raye)
Sampha – “Only” (Directed By Dexter Navy)
Skepta – “Gas Me Up (Diligent)” (Directed By Steveo)
Unknown T Feat. Loyle Carner – “Hocus Pocus” (Directed By Felix Brady)

Best R&B/soul act

Cleo Sol
Elmiene
Flo
Jaz Karis
Jorja Smith
Nippa
Winner: Odeal
Sasha Keable
Shae Universe
Sinead Harnett

Best alternative music act

Winner: ALT BLK ERA
Bob Vylan
Hak Baker
Kid Bookie
Native James
Spider

Best grime act

Chip
D Double E
Duppy
Kruz Leone
Manga Saint Hilare
Winner: Scorcher

Best hip hop act

Winner: Bashy
Cristale
Headie One
Nines
Potter Payper
Skrapz

Best drill act

163Margs
Central Cee
Headie One
Kairo Keyz
K-trap
Winner: Pozer

Best international act

Asake
Winner: Ayra Starr
Beyoncé
GloRilla
Kendrick Lamar
Latto
Megan Thee Stallion
Nicki Minaj
Tems
Tyla

Best performance in a TV show/film

Angela Wynter As Yolande Trueman In “Eastenders”
Caroline Chikezie As Noma In “Power Book II: Ghost”
Diane Parish As Denise Fox In “Eastenders”
Dionne Brown As Queenie In “Queenie”
Ghetts As Krazy In “Supacell”
Winner: Jacob Anderson As Louis In “Interview With The Vampire”
Jasmine Jobson As Jaq In “Top Boy”
Josh Tedeku As Tazer In “Supacell”
Kingsley Ben-adir As Bob Marley In “Bob Marley: One Love”
Tosin Cole As Michael In “Supacell”

Best media personality

Winner: 90’s Baby Show
AJ Odudu
Chuckie Online
Craig Mitch
Henrie Kwushue
Madame Joyce
Micah Richards
Specs Gonzalez
The Receipts Podcast
Zeze Millz

Best African music act

Asake
Winner: Ayra Starr
Bnxn & Ruger
King Promise
Odumodublvck
Rema
Shallipopi
Tems
Tyla
Uncle Waffles

Best Caribbean music act

Popcaan
Winner: Shenseea
Skillibeng
Spice
Valiant
Yg Marley

Best jazz act

Amy Gadiaga
Blue Lab Beats
Ego Ella May
Winner: Ezra Collective
Kokoroko
Yussef Dayes

Best electronic/Dance act

Eliza Rose
Nia Archives
Pinkpantheress
Salute
Shygirl
Winner: Tsha

Best producer

Ceebeaats
Inflo
Winner: Juls
M1onthebeat
P2j
Sammy Soso

Best gospel act

Winner: Annatoria
Imrhan
Limoblaze
Reblah
Still Shadey
Volney Morgan & New Ye

MUSIC, NEWS

Tems at F1, Ayra Starr’s MOBO Wins, Tyla’s Vogue Cover—The Girls Are Taking Over!

26 February 2025 Leave a comment

Tems, Ayra Starr, and Tyla dominated this week. Tems performed at F1 livery for Aston Martin, Ayra Starr made history with double MOBO wins, and Tyla stunned on British Vogue.

The week isn’t even over yet, and it’s already been filled with wins, celebrations, and moments worth talking about from the women leading the music scene across the continent. Tems, Tyla, and Ayra Starr (two Grammy winners and a double MOBO Award winner) have all been in the spotlight with a winning streak.

It’s been one good thing after another, so much so that it’s hard to know where to start. But let’s begin with Tems. Last week, she made a power move by joining San Diego FC’s ownership group as a club partner alongside Issa Rae. Then she gave us the music video for ‘Boy O Boy,’ and if you’ve seen it, you probably haven’t stopped talking about the moment she picked up a grown man and dropped him on the floor—who knew she had that kind of strength? And just when we thought she was done, she took centre stage at The O2 Arena in London to perform live at the unveiling of Aston Martin’s 2025 racing car for Formula 1 car livery event.

For Tyla, the moment was all fashion. The South African star graced the cover of British Vogue’s March issue, and she absolutely owned it—the styling, the colours, the attitude, the presence. The interview was just as good, giving us a glimpse into her world as she continues to soar.

Then there was Ayra Starr, making history at the MOBO Awards. It had been 16 years since a female artist won Best African Music Act, but she broke that streak and took the award home. And that wasn’t all—she also won Best International Act, winning both of her nominations. Everything na double double! She’s also in New Balance’s lifestyle 740s campaign, alongside Jaden Smith, adding another highlight to an already incredible week.

From music to fashion and even sports, the women came through and owned the moment thai week. Wouldn’t you agree?

Bellanajia/Trendznigeria

MUSIC, NEWS

Seyi Vibez Opens the Year with “Children of Africa” EP

26 February 2025 Leave a comment

Seyi Vibez is kicking off the year with a brand-new EP, “Children of Africa“. It’s his first project of 2025, and as always, he’s coming in strong. The four-track EP packs in everything fans love about his sound, from street-hop to emotion and that spiritual touch he’s known for.

This time, he’s got a surprise in the mix. One of the tracks, “Macho”, features American rapper NLE Choppa. The rest, “Mario Kart“, “Shaolin“, and “Happy Song“, stay true to Seyi’s signature style.

Speaking of switching things up, Seyi Vibez has also been rocking a bold new look. Platinum blonde hair, zig-zag plaits, and colourful grills have replaced his usual style, making sure all eyes are on him.

Listen to “Children of Africa” EP below.

Bellanaija/Trendznigeria

FASHION, MUSIC

Joeboy Stuns in a Monochrome Green Suit—A Bold Fashion Statement We Love

26 February 2025 Leave a comment

Joeboy’s bold green suit is a masterclass in monochrome styling, proving that menswear can be both daring and cool.

Don’t you just love green? And isn’t it even better when your favourite celebrities pull off monochrome looks you’ve been wondering how to style?

Joeboy is showing us exactly how to rock an all-green outfit with easy charm. His suit is a bright shade of green, featuring a well-tailored blazer and matching trousers. He pairs it with black shoes and white socks, a combination so sleek that we’re already taking notes for future white-and-green styling. He finishes off the look with some accessories—a watch, rings, bracelets, and earrings that add just the right touch of personality.

The entire outfit is bold and striking, with a fresh and confident energy. There’s something undeniably cool about men embracing bold colours, and Joeboy does it so well.

Fresh off the release of his latest single ‘SMH,’ he’s getting ready for his third studio album while also serving some serious style inspiration.

See his photos below.

Bellanaija/Trendznigeria

MUSIC, NEWS

Tyla Opens Up on British Vogue, Viral Met Gala Look & Love Life on Jennifer Hudson Show

26 February 2025 Leave a comment

Tyla joins Jennifer Hudson for an exclusive first look at her British Vogue cover, opening up about her Flintstones-inspired fashion, Met Gala look, and Victoria’s Secret performance.

Tyla was at The Jennifer Hudson Show where she got an exclusive first look at her British Vogue cover, and she had plenty to say! She talked about her Flintstones-inspired fashion, making a statement at the Met Gala, and taking the stage for her Victoria’s Secret performance—yes, those wings were real! She also spilled on working with Sabrina Carpenter and shared her dream collaborations.

She couldn’t hide her excitement about being on the March issue of British Vogue, calling it an unforgettable experience. From working with an amazing team to personally picking her outfits and colours, she was hands-on every step of the way.

Of course, she had to chat about her latest remix of “Push 2 Start” with Sean Paul—who she says was the perfect fit for the track.

And when it came to her love life, she had the best response. In a game segment, Jennifer asked her to describe it in three words, and Tyla simply said, “My love life.” The moment had Jennifer and the audience cracking up!

From her grand entrance through the Spirit Tunnel to the nonstop laughs and cheers, Tyla clearly had a blast on the show.

Watch the full video below!

Bellanaija

MUSIC, NEWS

Skales Infuses Rhythm and Passion into Another One

26 February 2025 Leave a comment

Skales come through with “Another One,” a song that’s all about attraction and rhythm. Produced by Kemuel Emmanuel, Bobberry MIX, and Ibk Sleek, it brings a smooth and engaging feel from start to finish.

From the first line, “Nothing sweet pass ileke,” he draws you in, linking beauty, movement, and desire. It’s a song that captures the feeling of being drawn to someone, that pull you can’t ignore. “My body no fit to dey one place when I set my all eye on your face,” he sings, making it clear this is more than just admiration. The hook, “Change your style, another one,” keeps the vibe playful, perfect for the dance floor.

ART & CULTURE, NEWS

RMD Expands Legacy with Global Deals for Radio Voice and Revelations

26 February 2025 Leave a comment

Renowned Nollywood actor Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) is taking his legendary career to new heights by producing two movies in collaboration with Nile Media Entertainment.

Having excelled as an actor, lawyer, and former commissioner, RMD is now stepping behind the scenes as a producer, marking an exciting new phase in his storied career. With an exclusive global distribution deal with Nile Entertainment Group, he is expanding his influence beyond acting, ensuring his productions reach audiences worldwide.

From Screen Icon to Producer: RMD Explores New Horizons

For decades, RMD has been a symbol of excellence in Nollywood, but now he’s stepping into a new role behind the scenes as a producer.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Nile group (@the.nilegroup)

His company, RMD Productions, has secured a groundbreaking partnership with Nile Entertainment to distribute two eagerly awaited films, Radio Voice and Revelations.

The Impact on Nollywood

Announced via Nile Entertainment’s official social media platforms, this partnership highlights Nollywood’s expanding global influence.

As a leading distributor specializing in African content, Nile Entertainment provides a strategic platform for RMD’s films to reach international audiences.

Nile Group CEO Moses Babatope emphasized that this collaboration is about more than just box office success—it’s a step toward greater global recognition for Nollywood.

“As part of their first productions, RMD Productions has delivered the rare alchemy of crafting stories rooted in Nigerian experiences that speak to universal human emotions. Our data shows audiences worldwide hunger for authentic voices, and these two projects deliver that authenticity while maintaining production quality that competes in the global market.”

The Films: Radio Voice and Revelations

The first of the two films, Radio Voice, is set for release on April 11, 2024. The redemption drama follows a former sex worker who finds a second chance at life through a struggling radio station while battling the ghosts of her past. RMD describes it as “a story that speaks to redemption without cliché.”

Meanwhile, Revelations, set to premiere in August 2025, is a deeply emotional cross-cultural drama shot in both Nigeria and Utah, USA. The film follows a Nigerian-American couple as they navigate infertility, cultural pressures, and long-hidden secrets that put their marriage and careers at risk.

Revelations has already gained international acclaim, securing multiple awards at the Utah International Film Festival. The film also marks the feature debut of RMD’s son, Oghenetega Mofe-Damijo, a Towson University graduate whose performance has received critical praise.

Sharing his thoughts on the project, Oghenetega said,

“We approached Revelations by blending cinematic traditions rather than replicating either Hollywood or Nollywood formulas. The non-linear narrative structure mirrors how cultural identity actually works; fragmentary, contradictory, and constantly evolving. Working alongside my father taught me that authentic storytelling requires both technical precision and emotional honesty.”

Strategic Release Plan

Recognizing the global appeal of these films, RMD Productions and Nile Entertainment have crafted a carefully planned rollout strategy. Radio Voice will first premiere in cinemas across West Africa before expanding to international diaspora markets, while Revelations will debut at a prestigious international film festival ahead of its commercial release.

This thoughtful approach signals a shift in Nollywood’s distribution strategy—RMD isn’t just producing films; he’s ensuring they reach and resonate with audiences worldwide.

Pulse/Oluchi-Voice of Nigeria

ART & CULTURE

Circuits Unveils Film Veterans’ Dignity Fund

26 February 2025 Leave a comment

Circuits, Africa’s premier virtual cinema platform, has launched the Film Veterans’ Dignity Fund—a first-of-its-kind initiative in Nigeria designed to recognize the contributions of veterans who have shaped and contributed to Nigeria’s film industry.

The fund, which targets film veterans from aged 70 and above, offers a monthly stipend for life as well as a comprehensive health insurance programme currently provided by Nem Health Insurance.

Between 30 January and 1 February 2025, ceremonies held in Lagos and Ibadan saw the very first three Veterans honoured for their enduring influence on Nollywood.

Among the distinguished recipients were; Chief Pete Edochie, MON; Idowu Philips, popularly known as Iya Rainbow; and Chief Lere Paimo, MFR.

Each honouree was presented with a commemorative award recognizing their significant contributions to the Nigerian film industry, received their first monthly stipend, and was enrolled in a comprehensive health insurance programme.

In a video interview during the event, Idowu Philips, popularly known as Iya Rainbow, expressed her gratitude for the initiative.

Many have promised to look after our legacy, but Circuits is the only one who has truly kept their word. It is heartening to finally receive this long-awaited recognition.”

In his video interview, Chief Pete Edochie praised the initiative, saying it was a great honour to have his work in social development through films recognized.

He mentioned that the monthly payments he receives feel like retirement benefits, leaving him very happy and proud to see his lifelong work acknowledged.

In his interview, Chief Lere Paimo, MFR, expressed his gratitude to Circuits and praised their efforts in honouring veterans like himself.

He stated that this award holds greater significance than any he has received before

The launch has also resonated with other seasoned players in the industry. Notably, acclaimed actress Kate Henshaw has publicly championed the cause, praising the initiative for its timely recognition of Nollywood’s stalwarts.

The announcement has garnered widespread support on social media, with many expressing admiration for the commitment to honouring the pioneers who have laid the foundations of Nigerian cinema.

The Film Veterans’ Dignity Fund arrives at a time when Nollywood is enjoying renewed global interest, and its establishment is being viewed as an important step in preserving the cultural and historical heritage of the industry.

By offering both financial security and healthcare support, the initiative provides a meaningful legacy for those who have dedicated their lives to storytelling in Nigeria.

pulse

OTHER NEWS

UNICEF Implements Machine Learning for Immunisation in Africa

26 February 2025 Leave a comment

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) implements machine learning to speed up immunisation programs across Central and West Africa.

This initiative is part of the Reach the Unreached (RTU) pilot, which was launched in Cameroon, Chad, Guinea, and Mali.

The program leverages machine learning technologies to break down population data and estimate vaccination coverage more accurately.

RtU is working in collaboration with the Frontier Data Network (FDN). UNICEF officials highlight that this approach has enabled regional and country office teams to map over 1.1 million unreached children.

The goal is to provide participating countries with detailed information to identify regions at risk of falling behind and address child rights inequities, starting with immunisation and birth registration.

“While the spread of granular population estimates and vaccination coverage datasets is beneficial and potentially game-changing, their impact on improving health programming and outcomes will only be realised if integrated into existing information systems and decision-making processes at the country level,” said Rocco Panciera, UNICEF geospatial health specialist.

Manuel Garcia-Herranz, FDN’s principal researcher, emphasised that without technology, experts lack insights into how data bias and algorithmic inequalities affect combined population estimation and vaccination coverage models.

“Even for single models, understanding performance across different socioeconomic contexts is challenging,” Garcia-Herranz said.

VON

OTHER NEWS

Vice-President Shettima Seeks More Support For Local Enterprises

26 February 2025 Leave a comment

Vice President Kashim Shettima has pledged President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to the health and survival of Nigerian enterprises, describing them as catalysts for a sustainable economic future.

He said this during a tour of a private company, SecureID Smartcard and Digital Solutions, in Lagos to mark its 20th anniversary.

The Vice President described the company as a shining example of Nigeria’s industrial and technological potential.

He commended the company as the country’s leading smartcard manufacturing company for its two decades of excellence in manufacturing and digital solutions.

Vice President Shettima praised the company’s evolution from a local startup to a continental leader in digital solutions. It is now capable of producing 200 million cards annually, including Nigeria’s international passports and voter identification cards.

He said, “This enterprise embodies the promise of what our nation can achieve when our innovative minds are given the support to compete with the rest of the world. From a humble local startup to a continental leader, SecureID has proven that Nigerian businesses can stand tall on the global stage with vision, dedication, and hard work.”

Emphasizing that economic growth is inseparable from enterprise development, the Vice President noted that “time and again, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has demonstrated beyond words that the health and survival of our enterprises are the true catalysts of a vibrant economy.

“We can no longer afford to pay lip service to support businesses, regardless of their scale, the VP stated, citing examples of government interventions designed to spur industrial expansion, including fiscal reforms and the Manufacturing Sector Fund, which encourages investment in key industries.”

He maintained that the Tinubu administration has introduced strategic measures to bolster the nation’s economy, ensuring that enterprises like SecureID can thrive and drive national development.

“SecureID is proof that Nigeria is not just a consumer nation but a creator of world-class solutions. This is the standard we must uphold to transform our economy, create opportunities, and raise the living standards of millions of Nigerians,” the Vice President stated.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to fostering an environment where businesses can flourish, Senator Shettima assured that the administration is ready to help local industries fulfil their potential.

“We will continue to support enterprises by fostering an environment where innovation thrives and where every citizen has the opportunity to succeed,” he added.

The highlight of the occasion was the tour of the company’s production facility by the Vice President, accompanied by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Kadri Hamzat, and other dignitaries present at the event.