The Rhythm Nation icon recently announced plans for Unbreakable, her first album in seven years, and an accompanying comeback tour, and now bosses at U.S. network BET will honour her career with the award and a tribute performed by Ciara, Jason Derulo and Tinashe.

BET's President of Programming, Stephen G. Hill, says, "This is Janet Jackson, people! We are excited beyond belief to present her with our inaugural ULTIMATE ICON: Music Dance Visual award and we are thrilled that she chose the BET Awards as the first step on her new road.

"An inspiration to many other artists, Ms. Jackson ('cause I'm nasty) blends music, dance and visuals in unique and groundbreaking ways and we look forward to celebrating her storied history... as well as giving the BET Awards audience a peek into her Unbreakable future."

The show will mark Jackson's first major TV appearance in three years.

She last attended the BET Awards in 2009 to salute her late brother, Michael Jackson, three days after his untimely death.