Ayra Starr shines on the global stage as she clinches the 2025 BET Award for Best International Act, marking her first-ever win.
The Nigerian star’s victory signals a bold leap for Afrobeats, celebrating her rise from breakout sensation to worldwide music powerhouse.
Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr has added a major milestone to her blossoming career by winning the Best International Act at the 2025 BET Awards. The chart-topping singer earned her first-ever BET trophy at the high-profile ceremony held on Sunday night, marking a significant moment not just for her, but for African music on the global stage.
Ayra triumphed in a competitive category that featured heavyweights like Tyla from South Africa, Ghanaian rapper Black Sherif, and fellow Nigerian star Rema. Her victory is being hailed as a defining moment in her journey from rising star to global music force.
The BET Awards, which celebrate outstanding talent and cultural impact in entertainment, especially within the Black community, recognized Ayra’s consistent contributions to music since her breakout. Hosted by comedian Kevin Hart, this year’s show gathered top names across music, film, sports, and television, spotlighting the voices shaping the future of entertainment.
Ayra Starr’s win didn’t come overnight. Since 2022, she’s been on BET’s radar with multiple nominations, including Best New International Act (2022), Best International Act (2023), and a BET Her Award nod in 2024 for her empowering anthem Commas. In 2025 alone, she secured nominations in three major categories, Best New Artist, Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, and Best International Act, with the latter earning her the win.
With her unique blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and pop, Ayra has captivated audiences worldwide and continues to elevate Nigerian music on the international scene. Her recognition by BET reflects both her artistry and the global reach of African talent.
Elsewhere during the ceremony, Kendrick Lamar stole the spotlight with four wins, including Album of the Year, Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Video of the Year for Not Like Us, and Best Collaboration with SZA on Luther.
Ayra Starr’s historic win is a proud moment for Nigerian entertainment, reinforcing her place as one of the leading voices of the next generation.
