Nigeria’s Afrobeats star, Sarah Aderibigbe, professionally known as Ayra Starr, has become the first African artist to headline a halftime show at a National Football League (NFL) International Game.
She recently performed at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium during the NFL game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, October 11, in London, United Kingdom.
The Sabi Girl hitmaker sang several of her hit songs including “Heaven Baby” which has taken over the social media space.
Before her performance, the 24-year-old said she was excited about the opportunity to perform as the event. She added that London is one of her favourite places in the world.
In her words, “I am so excited to perform at the NFL halftime show in London,” she said in a statement published by the league. 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!”
The “Rush” hitmaker noted that it was important for artistes to speak for the culture of the people.
She said, “At the end of the day, as artists, we speak for the culture and we speak for the people that listen to us,” she said. “And we have to represent any way that seems fit, that they need.”
Ayra Starr’s performance was part of the NFL’s 2026 International Games entertainment programme, which features a record seven halftime shows across seven countries and four continents as the league expands its international reach.
