Nigerian Afrobeats star Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, is set to take Nigerian music to another major international stage after being announced as the headliner for the American Express Halftime Show at the NFL London Game.
The National Football League (NFL) announced the singer’s selection on its official website, describing the award-winning performer as a “generational talent” while highlighting her strong connection with audiences in London and around the world.
Ayra Starr will perform during the highly anticipated clash between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Jacksonville Jaguars, giving the Nigerian singer an opportunity to showcase Afrobeats to a global sports audience.
The performance is expected to further strengthen the growing relationship between African music and major international entertainment platforms, with Nigerian artistes increasingly securing prominent stages outside the continent.
The singer also confirmed the news through a post on her official Instagram account, expressing excitement about performing in London and representing her fans, whom she affectionately calls “Starrgirl”.
“I am so excited to perform at the NFL halftime show in London. London is one of my favourite places in the world and to bring Starrgirl to the NFL global stage is a dream come true for me. I can’t wait to see you guys there!,” she wrote.
The NFL London Game has become an important fixture in the league’s efforts to expand its international audience, with London serving as one of the key destinations for American football outside the United States.
For Ayra Starr, the halftime appearance adds another major international milestone to a career that has seen her emerge as one of the leading young voices in contemporary African music.
Her selection also underscores the increasing global visibility of Nigerian music, as Afrobeats continues to find audiences across Europe, North America and other parts of the world.
With her performance scheduled to take place in London, Ayra Starr is expected to bring her energetic stage presence and Afrobeats sound to the NFL audience, potentially introducing her music to millions of football fans watching the game around the world.