In a dazzling night filled with Black excellence, electric performances, and heartfelt wins, Nigerian music star Ayra Starr reached a career-defining milestone, clinching her first-ever BET Award at the 2025 ceremony held at the Peacock Arena in Los Angeles.
Wearing a radiant smile and a touch of disbelief, the Gen Z Afropop princess stood tall as she was crowned Best International Act, beating out global powerhouses like Rema and South African sensation Tyla. For Ayra, this moment was more than just a trophy; it was a long-awaited validation of years of work, cultural representation, and sonic innovation.
A Moment Years in the Making
Ayra Starr, born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, has been on an unstoppable rise since her breakout hit “Away” caught the world’s attention in 2021. Signed to Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records, she quickly became one of the torchbearers of Nigeria’s new school of Afrobeats artists. But beyond infectious hooks and chart-topping singles, Ayra has proven herself a global force from sold-out shows in Europe to viral fashion moments on red carpets.
While the BET Award is her first major international win, it follows several nominations that previously slipped through her fingers. This time, the stars aligned.
“Ayra’s win is a defining moment not just for her, but for young African women in music,” said a Nigerian music critic in L.A. for the ceremony. “It shows that consistent artistry and authentic storytelling can’t be ignored for long.”
A Night of Near Misses and One Big Win
Though Ayra Starr’s name echoed loudly during the announcements, the evening reminded fans of the fierce competition. She was nominated in two other categories: Best New Artist, which went to rising American star Leon Thomas, and Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, which SZA won.
Meanwhile, fellow Nigerian singer Tems, nominated twice in the Best Her category, lost to Summer Walker. Still, the presence of two Nigerian women in multiple categories is a testament to the growing footprint of African women in global music.
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Kendrick Lamar Leads the Night
While Ayra made history for Nigeria, the biggest winner of the evening was Kendrick Lamar, who scooped an impressive five awards out of his ten nominations, reaffirming his position as one of hip-hop’s most prolific storytellers.
Nigeria to the World
Ayra Starr’s BET win signals much more than a personal achievement. It’s a beacon of inspiration for young African girls with big dreams. It’s a celebration of a sound that continues to unite cultures. And it’s proof that the world is dancing to the beat of Africa.
As Afrobeats continues to dominate charts and stages globally, Ayra’s historic win marks another notch in Nigeria’s belt of cultural exports. From the slums of Surulere to stages in Los Angeles, the world is finally listening, and Ayra Starr is at the microphone.
Full list of winners
Album of the Year
GNX – Kendrick Lamar
Best Male R&B/Pop Artist
Chris Brown
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist
SZA
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
Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award
‘Rain Down on Me’ – GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music
Viewer’s Choice Award
‘Residuals’ – Chris Brown
BET Her
‘Heart of a Woman’ – Summer Walker
Best International Act
Ayra Starr
Best New International Act
TXC (South Africa)
Best Movie
Luther: Never Too Much
Best Actor
Denzel Washington
Best Actress
Cynthia Erivo
Young Stars Award
Blue Ivy Carter
Sportsman of the Year
Jalen Hurts
Sportswoman of the Year Award
Angel Reese
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What award did Ayra Starr win at the 2025 BET Awards?
A: Ayra Starr won Best International Act, her first-ever BET Award.
Q: Who were the other nominees in her category?
A: She competed against major stars, including Rema and Tyla.
Q: Has Ayra Starr been nominated for the BET Awards before?
A: Ayra had been nominated in previous editions but had not won until 2025.
Q: Did she win in any other categories this year?
A: No. She was nominated for Best New Artist and Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, but Leon Thomas and SZA won those, respectively.
Q: Who was the biggest winner at the 2025 BET Awards?
A: Kendrick Lamar, who won 5 out of his 10 nominations.
Q: What does this win mean for African music?
A: It reinforces the global influence of African artists, particularly women, and showcases the increasing international relevance of Afrobeats.
Q: Where were the 2025 BET Awards held?
A: At the Peacock Arena in Los Angeles, California, on Monday, June 9, 2025.