Ayra Starr Shines Bright: Nigerian Star Wins Big at 2025 BET Awards

Nigerian afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr achieved a historic milestone at the 2025 BET Awards, winning the coveted Best International Act award. The victory, announced at the star-studded ceremony held at Peacock Arena in Los Angeles, marks her first-ever BET Award and cements her rising status in the global music scene.

The “Rush” singer outshone a competitive field that included Nigeria’s Rema and South Africa’s global breakout star Tyla, finally clinching a trophy after multiple past nominations.

“This is for every African girl who dares to dream,” Starr said in an emotional acceptance speech. “Thank you BET for believing in our sound.”

■ Misses in Other Categories

Despite her big win, Ayra Starr couldn’t replicate the feat in her other two nominations. She lost Best New Artist to American singer-songwriter Leon Thomas, and the Best Female R&B/Pop Artist to SZA, who continues to dominate U.S. charts with her soulful vocals.

Meanwhile, fellow Nigerian superstar Tems, also nominated twice in the BET Her category, saw Summer Walker’s “Heart of a Woman” claim the prize.

■ Kendrick Lamar Steals the Spotlight

The night’s undisputed star was Kendrick Lamar, who swept an impressive five awards out of his ten nominations, including:

■ Album of the Year – GNX

■ Best Male Hip Hop Artist

■ Video of the Year – Not Like Us

■ Best Collaboration – Luther with SZA

■ Video Director of the Year – with Dave Free for Not Like Us

“Hip hop is alive and evolving,” Lamar said while accepting his Album of the Year award. “We do it for the culture.”

■ More Highlights: Chris Brown, SZA, and Sports Stars

Chris Brown won Best Male R&B/Pop Artist and the Viewer’s Choice Award for “Residuals.”

SZA not only beat Ayra Starr in the R&B/Pop category but also took home Best Collaboration alongside Kendrick.

Blue Ivy Carter, daughter of Beyoncé and Jay-Z, won the Young Stars Award, continuing the legacy of excellence in the Carter family.

In the sports arena, Jalen Hurts was named Sportsman of the Year, while Angel Reese earned Sportswoman of the Year honors.

■ Full Circle for Afrobeats

Ayra Starr’s win adds to the growing list of Nigerian artists making global waves. With her name now etched in BET history, she joins the ranks of Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido in elevating Afrobeats on the international stage.