Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr cemented her global ascent by winning the Best International Act at the 2025 BET Awards, held on June 8, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
The 23-year-old singer, born Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, captivated audiences with her soulful performance of “Rush” and “Comma,” earning thunderous applause and her second consecutive BET accolade, following her 2024 win in the same category.
Starr’s victory over contenders like South Africa’s Tyla and Brazil’s Annenberg highlighted Afrobeats’ growing dominance, as Nigeria’s cultural export continued to reshape global music narratives. The awards, hosted by Taraji P. Henson, celebrated Black excellence, with Starr’s win marking a historic moment for African artists.
Starr, signed to Mavin Records, dedicated her award to her fans, known as “Sabigirls,” crediting their support for her meteoric rise. Her sophomore album, The Year I Turned 21, featuring hits like “Last Heartbreak Song” with Giveon, dominated charts, earning her nominations for Best New Artist and Album of the Year, though Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us clinched the latter.
The ceremony saw Burna Boy win Best Male Hip-Hop Artist, while Davido and Asake joined Starr in a performance medley, showcasing Nigeria’s musical depth. Social media buzzed with praise for Starr’s ethereal stage presence, with fans hailing her as “Africa’s Beyoncé.” BET’s Connie Orlando lauded Starr’s authenticity, noting her role in elevating African voices. The win, broadcast live on BET and Paramount+, underscores Nigeria’s cultural influence, as Starr prepares for a European tour, solidifying her status as a global icon.