Afrobeats Ascent sees Ayra Starr win Best International Act at the 2025 BET Awards, making history for Nigeria.
Afrobeats Ascent defines the moment Ayra Starr stepped onto the global stage. The 22‑year‑old Mavin Records singer secured the Best International Act award at the 2025 BET Awards in Los Angeles.
She triumphed over tough competition, including Rema, Tyla, Black Sherif, and Uncle Waffles. This victory makes her the youngest Nigerian to earn the title and the only African winner at the ceremony.
Ayra’s win crowns her stellar BET night, where she led Nigeria with three nominations—the most among her compatriots.
The ceremony took place on June 9 at the Peacock Theatre, hosted by Kevin Hart. It also featured Kendrick Lamar’s sweep of five major awards.
Known for her breakout hit “Rush” and signature smoky vocals, Ayra has steadily built a global following. This BET win cements her status as Afrobeats’ next major export.
Ayra joins an elite group of Nigerian internationals—Tems, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido—who have previously won in this category.
This afrobeats ascent highlights the genre’s explosive rise worldwide. With her first BET Award secured, Ayra Starr sets the bar higher for African female artists.
From Lagos to LA, Ayra’s win signals Nigeria’s growing influence in global music. Expect even bigger moves from this rising star.
