The recently concluded 2025 AAEA Music Awards in Nairobi was a night of triumph for Nigerian music, as several of its biggest stars took home major accolades.
One of the standout winners of the evening was Wizkid, whose soulful collaboration with American singer Brent Faiyaz, Piece of My Heart, clinched the award for Best Afro-R&B Song.
The smooth blend of Afrobeat rhythms and contemporary R&B stylings earned widespread acclaim and solidified Wizkid’s continued reign as a genre-pushing artist.
“Music has always been about connecting hearts, and I’m honored this piece resonated with so many,” Wizkid said in a pre-recorded message.
Rising star Darkoo, who has been a prominent figure among UK-based African artists, was awarded Best Diasporan Act.
Her hit single Favourite Girl, especially the remix featuring Rema, has become an anthem across clubs and radio stations in London and Lagos alike.
In her acceptance speech, she beamed with gratitude. “Being a British-Nigerian artist means representing two worlds, and I’m so proud to be doing that with music.
This award is for every African girl chasing her dream abroad,” Darkoo said, drawing cheers from the audience.
Another major win came in the form of Asake’s genre-bending single MMS featuring Wizkid, which won Best Afro-Native Song.
The track, a highlight from Asake’s third studio album Lungu Boy, marries Yoruba-rooted musical elements with contemporary Afrobeat production.
Speaking backstage, Asake expressed his excitement: “This one means a lot. It’s not just music—it’s culture, it’s roots, and I’m glad the world is listening.”
The collaboration with Wizkid proved to be a masterstroke, as both artists showcased how modern soundscapes can still be deeply rooted in African heritage.
Ayra Starr, the ever-shining Mavin Records superstar, continued her winning streak by taking home the award for Best Female Artist in West Africa.
Her powerful performances, fashion-forward image, and string of hits over the past year have made her one of Africa’s most influential pop stars.
“I dedicate this award to every young girl who dares to dream. Africa is beautiful, and we are just getting started,” Ayra declared on stage, holding her award aloft with a sparkle in her eyes.
Her presence underscored a broader shift where female artists are taking center stage in the continent’s music revolution.
In the street-pop scene, Seyi Vibez was recognized as Best Male Artist in West Africa, a testament to his prolific run and undeniable connection with the streets.
With his heartfelt lyrics and streetwise storytelling, Seyi has become the voice of a new wave of Nigerian music. “They said I wouldn’t make it, but God did,” he said emotionally during his acceptance speech.
“This is for the trenches, for those who never gave up.” His win further affirms the rising influence of street-born sounds in shaping mainstream African music.
OdumoduBlvck, whose name has become synonymous with raw, expressive, and unapologetic rap, was awarded Best Rapper in West Africa.
Known for his fierce lyrical prowess and genre-defying approach, OdumoduBlvck continues to carve a distinct path for African hip hop. He walked up to the stage dressed in his signature anti-establishment style, quipping, “Na me be the voice of the streets, and we no dey beg.”
His win was widely celebrated online, especially among fans who have long hailed him as the new vanguard of African rap music.
The night also belonged to global heavyweights like Davido and Chris Brown, whose collaboration Hmm, off Brown’s 11:11 album, was awarded Best Global Collaboration.
Meanwhile, Burna Boy, the African Giant himself, bagged the coveted Best Overall Male Artist of the Year, a nod to his unrelenting global presence and impact.
“This is for Africa. We no dey look back,” Burna Boy said with fire in his voice. Grammy winner Tems took home Best Global Female African Artist, while Tanzanian icon Diamond Platnumz was honored as Best Global African Male Artist.
South African breakout star Tyla also made her mark by winning Best Southern African Act, capping off a night that celebrated the diverse, powerful, and unifying voice of African music on the world stage.
