Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr has officially cemented her place on the global stage by winning the Best International Act award at the 2025 BET Awards, held last night in Los Angeles.
The 21-year-old Afropop star beat out an impressive lineup of nominees, including Tyla (South Africa), Rema (Nigeria), Uncle Waffles (Eswatini/South Africa), Joé Dwèt Filé (France/Haiti), Mc Luanna (Brazil), and Black Sherif (Ghana) — all leading figures in their respective countries and musical genres.
A Victory for Nigeria and Afrobeats
With this win, Ayra Starr becomes one of the youngest Nigerian female artists to ever take home a BET Award, following in the footsteps of music legends like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Tems.
Taking to the stage in a stunning outfit that turned heads on the red carpet earlier, Ayra dedicated her award to African women, young dreamers, and the “entire Afrobeats movement.”
“This is for every young girl who dares to dream from a small city with a big voice. Thank you BET, and thank you to my fans across the world. Nigeria, we did it again!”
Her acceptance speech received a standing ovation and quickly went viral online, with fans praising her humility, elegance, and powerful message of empowerment.
A Star in Full Bloom
Ayra Starr, signed to Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records, has had a breakout year with her second studio album dominating charts across Africa, Europe, and even cracking the Billboard Global 200. Her fusion of Afrobeat, pop, and soulful vocals has earned her comparisons to Rihanna, while still carving out a distinct sound that’s entirely her own.
Her international collaborations with artists like Chris Brown, Kelly Rowland, and Central Cee have pushed her sound into new markets — and now, a BET trophy adds another milestone to her meteoric rise.
Tough Competition, Major Win
Ayra’s win was especially notable given the fierce competition. South Africa’s Tyla, fresh off her Grammy win and global hit “Water,” was widely seen as a front-runner. Rema, with his viral smash “Calm Down” and global tour success, also had a strong claim. Meanwhile, Uncle Waffles, Black Sherif, and the others brought incredible diversity and talent to this year’s nomination list.
Yet, it was Ayra’s consistency, global appeal, and undeniable artistry that clinched the win.
Africa to the World
Ayra Starr’s BET victory is more than just a personal achievement — it’s another loud signal that African music is not just influencing the global soundscape but dominating it. From Lagos to Johannesburg, from Accra to Paris, the African wave is unstoppable.
Social Media Erupts
Minutes after her win, hashtags like #AyraStarrBETWin, #BET2025, #AfrobeatsToTheWorld, and #AfricanExcellence began trending across Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. Fans, fellow artists, and celebrities flooded timelines with congratulatory messages, fan art, and video reactions.
Even BET’s official page posted:
“The Celestial Being herself! Congratulations to @ayrastarr on winning Best International Act. Africa, stand up!”
What’s Next for Ayra?
With a BET Award now under her belt, Ayra Starr is expected to continue her international tour and possibly tease a deluxe version of her latest album. Industry insiders also hint at a Grammy campaign underway for 2026.
Ayra Starr’s victory is a testament to talent, timing, and tenacity. She’s not just the future of African music — she’s the now.
Congratulations, Ayra. The world is yours.
Written By Joe Brens
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