MASTER CHEF NIGERIA PREMIERES WITH N73M PRIZE POT
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By: Balogun Ibrahim
MasterChef has officially arrived in Nigeria. Produced locally by African media powerhouse Primedia, MasterChef Nigeria marks the country’s first adaptation of the globally acclaimed reality cooking show. The series promises to reshape Nigeria’s culinary scene and provide aspiring home cooks with a platform to showcase their creativity and take their skills to the next level.
According to a statement from the organizers, the winner of MasterChef Nigeria will take home N73 million, earning the title of the nation’s first-ever MasterChef. Entries for the competition are now open, with a deadline set for 27 February 2026.
The show will air on DStv’s Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family, joining the ranks of the global MasterChef franchise, which is represented internationally by Banijay Entertainment, the company behind hit series like Big Brother and Survivor.
The agreement for the Nigerian edition was facilitated by Banijay Rights, the distribution arm of Banijay Entertainment.
The MasterChef format, created by Franc Roddam and first launched in 1990, has launched the careers of countless culinary talents across 70 countries, while celebrating the distinct food culture of each region. Recognised by Guinness World Records as the most successful cooking show globally, the franchise has aired over 700 seasons and 16,000 episodes to date.
“MasterChef Nigeria marks a landmark moment for Nigerian television, showcasing the country’s rich cuisine, innovative food culture, and vibrant culinary heritage like never before,” said Tamara van Eeckhoven, Managing Director of Primedia Africa. “The show will discover, mentor, and nurture talent with the potential to become Nigeria’s next generation of top chefs. We urge all passionate home cooks aspiring to make their mark in the dynamic Nigerian food industry to participate in this exciting competition.”
Commenting on the launch, Kemi Omotosho, Chief Executive Officer of Africa Magic, said, “MasterChef Nigeria demonstrates our ongoing dedication to producing high-quality local content that highlights the richness of Nigerian culture and creativity to audiences across Africa and beyond.”
Sarah Mottershead, Vice President for Middle East, Africa, Israel, Greece & Cyprus at Banijay Rights, added, “We are extremely proud that this globally acclaimed culinary format continues to expand worldwide. Through our partnership with Primedia, Nigerian audiences are in for an extraordinary experience as they enjoy their first taste of this iconic series.”
In MasterChef Nigeria, home cooks from all corners of the country will face a series of culinary challenges testing originality, technique, flavour mastery, and presentation. Contestants will create both traditional and modern dishes, showcasing Nigeria’s rich culinary heritage while meeting international culinary standards.
Judges – renowned Nigerian chefs to be announced soon – will evaluate each challenge to identify the strongest and weakest dishes. The last cook standing will be crowned MasterChef Nigeria and take home the ₦73 million grand prize.
To participate, entrants must be Nigerian citizens aged 18 or older, hold a valid passport, and must not have worked professionally as a chef.
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