Nigeria: Ayra Starr vs Tyla debate sparks online clash between Nigerian and South African fans
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
A cultural debate between Nigerian and South African social media users flared up this week after Rihanna posted a viral Met Gala clip featuring Ayra Starr’s song
The post reignited comparisons between Nigerian star Ayra Starr and South African singer Tyla, with fans on X, formerly Twitter, debating their fame, influence, and global reach. Both artists have previously said there’s no rivalry between them.
Many Nigerian users rallied behind Ayra Starr, criticizing what they called unprovoked attacks from South African fans.
danielesibiza wrote, “Ayra getting whacked over Tyla is so stupid cause they don’t even have beef. Why can’t we enjoy two African artists at the same time?”
EhisOjeks argued that Nigeria’s deep pool of talent sometimes holds individual artists back, while South Africa’s smaller scene allows fans to fully back Tyla. “South Africa have just tyla, so they are fully behind her,” he said.
Others framed it as a broader competition, with @treazyblaq posting, “Ayra Starr vs Tyla is another proof of Nigeria beating South Africa at everything over and over again.”
Yetundeale also recalled AfroChella 2021, when Ayra introduced Tyla to a global audience, calling for more unity.
South African users defended Tyla’s global status and questioned the comparisons.
Teenmanoble said, “Tyla has never used her platform to speak against what her South African people are doing to other Africans. That’s why Rihanna ignored her ass and picked Ayra’s side.”
Navistakadiri dismissed the idea that Ayra’s link to Rihanna makes her bigger, writing, “Ayra fans thinking she being friends with Rihanna makes her a bigger star than Tyla!? The global superstar TYLA!?”
BrunoSigwela pushed back on the rivalry itself: “If Ayra Starr’s greatness is determined by the interactions she had with Rihanna, then I’ve got news for yall. Oh, Tyla the star you are.”
Barbiestarves added, “Rihanna doesn’t see Ayra as a threat so it’s easy for her to like her. Tyla is a STAR that’s why Rihanna is threatened.”
Despite repeated calls from fans to support both artists, the online debate remains divided. Both Ayra Starr and Tyla have said in past interviews that they respect each other and don’t see themselves as rivals.
The exchange highlights how African music’s global rise has also intensified fan competition, with social media turning every nod from international stars into a flashpoint for national pride.
