Ayra Starr Wins Best International Act at 2025 BET Awards

Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr has achieved a major career milestone by winning the Best International Act award at the 2025 BET Awards, held in Los Angeles and hosted by comedian and actor Kevin Hart.

The 21-year-old star edged out top contenders, including South Africa’s Tyla, Ghana’s Black Sherif, and fellow Nigerian singer Rema, to claim her first-ever BET Award—a testament to her rising global influence and unique Afro-fusion sound.

A Star on the Rise

Since bursting onto the scene with her breakout hit “Bloody Samaritan”, Ayra Starr has become a powerhouse in African pop music. Her consistent international recognition at the BET Awards began in 2022, with the following nominations:

• Best New International Act – BET Awards 2022

• Best International Act – BET Awards 2023

• BET Her Award (for “Commas”) – BET Awards 2024

• Best New Artist, Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, and Best International Act – BET Awards 2025

Winning this year’s Best International Act cements her status as a global music force and a beacon of African excellence on the world stage.

Celebrating Black Excellence

The BET Awards, known for spotlighting Black excellence and cultural innovation, drew top stars from music, film, sports, and television. The 2025 edition delivered unforgettable moments and celebrated game-changing artistry from across the globe.

While Ayra Starr made history for Nigeria, Kendrick Lamar emerged as the night’s biggest winner, securing four awards, including:

• Album of the Year – GNX

• *Best Male Hip Hop Artist

• Video of the Year – “Not Like Us”

• Best Collaboration – “Luther” feat. SZA

From iconic legends to new-school trailblazers, the night reflected the vibrant heartbeat of contemporary Black culture.