Nigerian Afrobeats sensation, Ayra Starr, has clinched the prestigious Best International Act award at the 2025 BET Awards, solidifying her place as one of Africa’s leading music exports.
The 22-year-old singer, born Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, edged out stiff competition from South Africa’s Tyla, Ghanaian star Black Sherif, and fellow Nigerian artist Rema to claim the top prize in her category. The win adds to the growing global recognition of African music and cements Ayra Starr’s position as a major player in the international music scene.
The 2025 BET Awards ceremony, which took place on Monday night at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, celebrated outstanding achievements in Black entertainment and culture, spanning music, film, sports, and more. The event was hosted by comedian Kevin Hart, who brought his signature energy and humor to the show.
Ayra Starr’s triumph is the latest milestone in her fast-rising career. She had previously earned nominations for Best New International Act in 2022, Best International Act in 2023, and the BET Her Award in 2024 for her hit single “Commas.” Just last month, she became the first Nigerian female artist to surpass one billion views on YouTube.
The night also saw rapper Kendrick Lamar dominate the awards, taking home four major accolades including Album of the Year for GNX, Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Video of the Year for “Not Like Us,” and Best Collaboration with SZA for their song “Luther.”
Full List of Winners at the 2025 BET Awards:
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist: SZA
Best Male R&B/Pop Artist: Chris Brown
Best Group: Future & Metro Boomin
Best Collaboration: “Luther” – Kendrick Lamar & SZA
Best Male Hip Hop Artist: Kendrick Lamar
Best Female Hip Hop Artist: Doechii
Video of the Year: “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
Video Director of the Year: Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
Best New Artist: Leon Thomas
Album of the Year: GNX – Kendrick Lamar
Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award: “Rain Down on Me” – GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music
Best Actress: Cynthia Erivo
Best Actor: Denzel Washington
Best Movie: Luther: Never Too Much
YoungStars Award: Blue Ivy Carter
Sportswoman of the Year: Angel Reese
Sportsman of the Year: Jalen Hurts
BET Her Award: “Heart of a Woman” – Summer Walker
Best New International Act: TxCT (South Africa), Ajuliacosta (Brazil)
Best International Act: Ayra Starr
Viewer’s Choice Award: “Residuals” – Chris Brown
Ayra Starr’s victory marks a proud moment for Nigeria and for Afrobeats music globally, reinforcing the continent’s impact on the international stage.
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