Nigerian Afrobeats sensation, Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, has cemented her global music status by winning Best International Act at the 2025 BET Awards, becoming the youngest Nigerian artist to achieve this feat at just 22 years old.

The award ceremony, held at the iconic Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Monday night, celebrated Black excellence across music, film, sports, and culture. Hosted by the ever-vibrant Kevin Hart, the night was filled with energy, satire, and unforgettable performances.

Ayra Starr triumphed over a competitive field that included South Africa’s Tyla, Ghana’s Black Sherif, and fellow Nigerian chart-topper Rema. This win marks a significant milestone in her career, especially following a string of past nominations: Best New International Act (2022), Best International Act (2023), and BET Her Award (2024) for her hit single “Commas.”

With three nominations in 2025 alone, Ayra Starr’s growing influence in the global music industry is undeniable. Her BET victory is not just a personal triumph; it is a moment of pride for the entire African music scene, especially as Afrobeats continues to captivate global audiences.

The evening’s biggest winner was rapper Kendrick Lamar, who took home four major awards, including Album of the Year for GNX and Video of the Year for Not Like Us, solidifying his reign as a hip-hop heavyweight.

Full list of key winners from the 2025 BET Awards:

Best Female R&B/Pop Artist – SZA Best  Male R&B/Pop Artist – Chris Brown 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 Album of the Year – GNX – Kendrick Lamar Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award – “Rain Down on Me” – GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music Best Actress – Cynthia Erivo Best Actor – Denzel Washington Best Movie – Luther: Never Too Much YoungStars Award – Blue Ivy Carter Sportswoman of the Year – Angel Reese Sportsman of the Year – Jalen Hurts BET Her Award – “Heart of a Woman” – Summer Walker Best New International Act – TxCT (South Africa), Ajuliacosta (Brazil) Best International Act – Ayra Starr Viewer’s Choice Award – “Residuals” – Chris Brown