Ayra Starr Dazzles With BET Awards Triumph

Nigerian Afropop sensation Ayra Starr has cemented her place on the global stage after winning “Best International Act” at the 2025 Black Entertainment Television (BET) Awards on Monday, 9 June.

The 22-year-old songstress beat out stiff competition from global stars including fellow Nigerian Rema, South Africa’s Tyla, and eSwatini’s Uncle Waffles at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, California.

Her win makes her the youngest Nigerian ever to claim the honour and only the second Nigerian woman, after Tems, to do so.

Despite strong representation across multiple categories, Starr was the sole African winner of the night. Artists such as Burna Boy and Shallipopi were also nominated but came up empty-handed.

The awards – which marked their 25th edition – were hosted by comedian Kevin Hart, who last hosted the ceremony in 2011. The night belonged to American rapper Kendrick Lamar, who went home with multiple awards, including “Album of the Year” and “Video of the Year”.

Ayra Starr now joins an elite list of Nigerian BET winners, including Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer for Afrobeats on the world stage.

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