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After an electrifying contest, Ayodeji Benson, aka Ayo Benzi, emerged the winner of new reality TV show, Next Afrobeats Star, smiling home with a grand prize of N150 million.
The competition, which began with over 15,000 participants from three regional auditions in September 2025, culminated in a high-energy finale featuring five finalists: Ayo Benzi, Dave Cash, Kaeko, Somto O’Laker, and Lucky Yay, each delivering standout performances that reflected weeks of intense training, mentorship and artistic growth.
At the end of the finale held at Ultima Studios, Lekki, Lagos, on Sunday, December 14, 2025, Ayo Benzi clinched the top spot, securing a N150 million music deal.
Dave Cash, the first runner-up, went home with N100 million, followed by Kaeko, with N75 million, Somto O’Laker with N50 million, and Lucky Yay with N25 million, underscoring the platform’s commitment to celebrating and rewarding multiple talents.
While the show lasted, producers and hit-makers, including Sarz, Puffy Tee, P. Prime and Andre Vibez, guided the contestants through songwriting, performance, stage presence and the realities of the industry.
Ayo Benzi was part of Puffy Tee’s team, a mentorship experience that played out strongly at the grand finale. Reflecting on his journey, Ayo Benzi described it as a defining moment in his career and expressed appreciation for the support he received throughout the competition.
The finale also featured special appearances and performances from music stars Iyanya and Bella Shmurda, adding to the celebratory atmosphere and reinforcing the show’s connection to the wider Afrobeats ecosystem.
