Nigerian music star Ayra Starr achieved a historic milestone by winning the Best International Act at the 2025 BET Awards, held at the Peacock Arena in Los Angeles. The 22-year-old singer, born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, became the first Nigerian woman to claim this prestigious award, solidifying her position as a leading figure in the global rise of Afrobeats. Her victory in this category, previously won by artists like Burna Boy and Tems, underscores her growing influence and the increasing prominence of Nigerian music on the world stage.
Ayra Starr faced fierce competition in the Best International Act category, including fellow Nigerian artist Rema, South Africa’s Tyla, and other global talents such as Aya Nakamura, Raye, Benson Boone, and Karol G. Her win was a testament to her unique blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and pop, showcased in hits like “Rush” and her critically acclaimed sophomore album, The Year I Turned 21. The award, presented during a star-studded ceremony hosted by Taraji P. Henson, highlighted Starr’s ability to resonate with audiences worldwide, further cementing Nigeria’s dominance in the international music scene.
In addition to her win, Ayra Starr was nominated in two other categories: Best New Artist, which was won by Leon Thomas, and Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, where she competed against heavyweights like Beyoncé, SZA, and Kehlani, with SZA ultimately taking the award. Despite not winning these additional categories, her nominations reflect her versatility and broad appeal across genres. Her performance at the BET Awards pre-show, where she delivered an electrifying rendition of her hit single “Rush,” captivated audiences and set the tone for her historic night.
Ayra Starr’s journey to this achievement began with her breakout in 2021, when her self-titled EP and subsequent single “Rush” from her debut album 19 & Dangerous garnered widespread acclaim. “Rush” became a global anthem, earning her a Grammy nomination and making her the youngest Nigerian female artist to achieve such recognition. Her sophomore album, released in 2024, featured collaborations with artists like Giveon and Asake, further showcasing her ability to blend cultural authenticity with universal appeal.
The BET Awards, broadcast live on BET and Paramount Global networks, celebrated Black excellence across music, film, and culture, with performances from artists like Megan Thee Stallion, Ice Spice, and Childish Gambino. Ayra Starr’s win was a highlight of the evening, drawing praise from fans and industry peers on social media platforms like X, where users lauded her as a trailblazer for African music. Posts on X described her victory as “a win for Nigeria” and “proof that Afrobeats is taking over the world,” reflecting the pride and excitement surrounding her achievement.
This milestone comes amidst a banner year for Ayra Starr, who has been recognized as one of Apple Music’s 10 Artists to Watch in 2025 and has seen her music dominate streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences, from Lagos to Los Angeles, has positioned her as a cultural ambassador for Nigeria and a role model for young artists. Her win also follows in the footsteps of other Nigerian artists like Tems, who won the same award in 2022, and Burna Boy, who has claimed it multiple times, signaling a consistent Nigerian presence in the category.
Beyond her musical achievements, Ayra Starr’s win carries cultural significance, highlighting the global impact of Afrobeats and the role of Nigerian artists in shaping contemporary music. Her acceptance speech, though brief, emphasized gratitude to her fans, family, and team at Mavin Records, the label that has nurtured her career since her debut. She dedicated the award to her supporters, noting their role in her journey from a young artist in Benin City to an international star.
The 2025 BET Awards also recognized other notable winners, including Kendrick Lamar, who swept categories like Album of the Year for New Blue Sun and Best Male Hip-Hop Artist, and Beyoncé, who won Best Female Hip-Hop Artist. The event’s focus on cultural excellence resonated with Ayra Starr’s win, as her music embodies the vibrancy and innovation of African artistry. Her victory is expected to inspire a new generation of African artists to pursue global recognition while staying rooted in their cultural heritage.
Ayra Starr’s historic win at the 2025 BET Awards marks a pivotal moment in her career and for Afrobeats as a genre. As she continues to break barriers and redefine what it means to be an international artist, her influence is poised to grow even further. With upcoming projects and international tours planned, Ayra Starr’s trajectory suggests that this BET Award is just the beginning of her ascent to global superstardom.
