MasterChef Launches Nationwide Search for Nigeria’s Top Home Cook as ₦73M Up for Grabs
MasterChef has officially arrived in Nigeria. Brought to the country by African media giant Primedia, MasterChef Nigeria is the inaugural local adaptation of the world’s most renowned reality cooking show. This programme is set to revolutionise Nigeria’s culinary scene and transform the lives of passionate home cooks eager to showcase their creative talent in the kitchen.
The winner of MasterChef Nigeria will walk away with an astonishing ₦73 million and will make history as Nigeria’s first MasterChef. Entries are now open for this life-changing opportunity, with the closing date set for 27 February 2026.
MasterChef Nigeria will be broadcast on DStv’s Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family channels. It is part of the global MasterChef franchise, which is represented internationally by Banijay Entertainment. Banijay is also the powerhouse behind iconic series such as Big Brother and Survivor.
The deal for this new version was negotiated by Banijay Rights, the global distribution arm of Banijay Entertainment.
Created by Franc Roddam and first launched in 1990, the MasterChef format has propelled the careers of countless culinary stars across 720 countries, showcasing each territory’s unique food culture. Recognised by Guinness World Records as the most successful cookery show in the world, it has aired over 700 seasons and 16,000 episodes to date.
“MasterChef Nigeria is a major Nigerian television milestone that will celebrate the country’s exquisite cuisine, innovative food culture and vibrant culinary traditions as never before, whilst unearthing, mentoring and nurturing talent with the potential to become Nigeria’s next generation of distinguished chefs,” said Tamara van Eeckhoven, Managing Director at Primedia Africa. “We encourage all home cooks who want to make a name for themselves in the dynamic Nigerian food industry to enter this profound competition.”
Commenting on the launch, Kemi Omotosho, Chief Executive Officer of Africa Magic, said: “MasterChef Nigeria reflects our continued commitment to investing in premium local content that showcases the richness of Nigerian culture and creativity to audiences across Africa and the world.”
Sarah Mottershead, VP Middle East, Africa, Israel, Greece & Cyprus at Banijay Rights, added: “We are incredibly proud this world-beating culinary format continues to expand its global footprint. Through our wider partnership with Primedia, Nigerian viewers are set for a real treat when they get their first taste of this iconic TV experience.”
In MasterChef Nigeria, diverse home cooks from across the country will compete in a series of food-making challenges designed to test originality, technique, flavour mastery and presentation. Throughout the season, contestants will prepare both traditional and contemporary dishes, drawing inspiration from Nigeria’s rich culinary heritage while demonstrating global culinary standards.
At each challenge, the MasterChef Nigeria judges – esteemed Nigerian chefs who will be announced in due course – will evaluate the dishes to determine the best and least successful servings. Ultimately, the last contestant standing will be crowned MasterChef Nigeria and awarded the ₦73 million prize.
We are proud to partner with MasterChef Nigeria as the Headline Sponsor of its first-ever edition in the country. MasterChef is a globally respected platform that celebrates culinary excellence, creativity, and skill—values that align strongly with Power Oil’s commitment to quality and healthier cooking. – Adeola Amosun, Group Media Manager, Tolaram
Home cooks wishing to enter MasterChef Nigeria must be Nigerian citizens aged 18 or above, hold a valid passport, and have not earned a living as professional chefs.
Interested applicants can submit their entries through the official website www.masterchefnigeria.com, where the complete eligibility requirements and the application form are available.