Ayra Starr led the charge for Nigeria at the 2025 BET Awards with an impressive three nominations, solidifying her position as one of Afrobeats’ leading voices. Fellow Nigerian stars Seyi Vibez and Shallipopi were also recognized, both earning nominations for Best New Artist.
In a tightly contested category, Ayra Starr emerged victorious as Best International Act, edging out major global contenders, including her Mavin Records labelmate and chart-topping artist Rema.
With this win, Ayra becomes the second Nigerian female artist—after Tems—to take home the prestigious award. She joins an elite group of past Nigerian winners, including 2Baba, D’banj, Ice Prince, Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, and Tems.
The 25th edition of the BET Awards took place on Monday, June 9, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. The ceremony was hosted by comedian and actor Kevin Hart, marking his return to the BET stage after previously hosting in 2011.
Select Winners from the 2025 BET Awards:
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Best Female R&B/Pop Artist – SZA
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Best Male R&B/Pop Artist – Chris Brown
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Best Group – Future & Metro Boomin
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Best Collaboration – “Luther” – Kendrick Lamar & SZA
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Best Male Hip Hop Artist – Kendrick Lamar
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Best Female Hip Hop Artist – Doechii
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Video of the Year – “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
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Video Director of the Year – Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
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Best New Artist – Leon Thomas
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Album of the Year – GNX – Kendrick Lamar
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Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award – “Rain Down on Me” – GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin & Maverick City Music
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Best Actress – Cynthia Erivo
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Best Actor – Denzel Washington
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Best Movie – Luther: Never Too Much
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YoungStars Award – Blue Ivy Carter
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Sportswoman of the Year – Angel Reese (Basketball)
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Sportsman of the Year – Jalen Hurts (Football)
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BET Her Award – “Heart of a Woman” – Summer Walker
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Best International Act – Ayra Starr
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Best New International Act – Ajuliacosta (Brazil)
