Masterchef Nigeria hunts for home cooks, offers N73m prize

The world’s most celebrated cooking competition has arrived in Nigeria, promising fame, fortune and a shot at culinary immortality.

MasterChef Nigeria, the first local edition of the globally acclaimed MasterChef franchise, has officially opened entries, kicking off a nationwide hunt for the country’s most talented home cook. At stake is a staggering N73 million grand prize and the coveted title of Nigeria’s first-ever MasterChef.

Brought to Nigeria by African media powerhouse Primedia, the show is poised to reshape the country’s culinary landscape when it premieres on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family. Entries close on February 27, 2026.

The franchise is represented globally by Banijay Entertainment, the production giant behind hit formats such as Big Brother and Survivor, with the Nigerian deal negotiated by Banijay Rights.

Created by Franc Roddam and first launched in 1990, MasterChef is officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the most successful cookery show in the world, boasting over 700 seasons and 16,000 episodes worldwide.

“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.

“We encourage all home cooks who want to make a name for themselves in the dynamic Nigerian food industry to enter this profound competition.”

said Tamara van Eeckhoven, Managing Director at Primedia Africa.

Kemi Omotosho, Chief Executive Officer of Africa Magic, added: “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, said: “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.”

The competition will see amateur cooks battle through intense culinary challenges testing originality, technique, flavour and presentation. Only one contestant will emerge victorious.

To qualify, applicants must be Nigerian citizens aged 18 or older, possess a valid passport and must not have earned a living as professional chefs.