Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr has officially been crowned the BET International Artist of the Year 2025, making history as one of the youngest female African artists to receive the prestigious honor. The award was announced last night during the BET Awards 2025 ceremony in Los Angeles, USA.
Known for her vibrant voice, Afro-pop sound, and empowering presence, Ayra Starr beat out other global heavyweights in the category, including UK’s Central Cee, South Africa’s Tyla, and France’s Aya Nakamura.
The 22-year-old star, signed to Mavin Records, took the stage in an elegant black gown and delivered an emotional speech thanking her fans, her label, and the entire African music community.
> “This award is for every African girl chasing a dream,” she said. “Thank you to BET for giving African music the global stage it deserves.”
Since bursting onto the scene with hits like Bloody Samaritan and Rush, Ayra Starr has consistently raised the bar, blending Afrobeats with global pop influences. Her latest album "The Year I Turned 21", released earlier this year, topped charts across Africa, Europe, and parts of the U.S.
The BET win marks a major milestone in her career and solidifies her as a leading voice in the global Afrobeat wave. Fans across Africa and the diaspora have taken to social media to celebrate her victory, with the hashtag #AyraStarrBETWinner trending in several countries.
EIIGHANA AFRICA congratulates Ayra Starr on this well-deserved recognition and continues to celebrate the unstoppable rise of African talent on the world stage.
Stay tuned to eiighanaafrica.com for more updates on African stars making global impact.