Nigeria’s culinary scene is set for a major milestone as MasterChef Nigeria premieres on Sunday, April 26, 2026, marking the beginning of the journey to crown the country’s first-ever winner of the globally renowned cooking competition.
The show will air at 7 p.m. on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family, alongside a live online watch party streamed on YouTube, allowing audiences across Nigeria to follow the competition in real time.
Organisers said the debut season will feature 10 contestants selected from across the country, representing a diverse mix of culinary talent, creativity, and passion. The participants will compete in a series of high-pressure challenges designed to test their technical skills, innovation, and resilience.
At stake is a grand prize of ₦73 million and the historic title of Nigeria’s first MasterChef winner.
The show, produced by Primedia Group, aims to showcase Nigeria’s rich culinary heritage while blending traditional flavours with modern cooking techniques.
Judging the competition are renowned chefs Chef Stone and Chef Eros, who will evaluate contestants’ performances throughout the series.
Chef Stone said viewers should expect bold, creative dishes that reflect Nigerian identity, while Chef Eros described the competition as intense and a true display of the country’s culinary depth.
The programme is supported by several corporate sponsors, including Power Oil, Indomie, Dano Milk, Malta Guinness, Sonia Tomato, Kiara Rice, and the Golden Penny brand.
Spanning 13 episodes, the show will air weekly on Sundays, with repeat broadcasts scheduled for Wednesdays and Thursdays on Africa Magic channels.
Industry watchers say the launch of MasterChef Nigeria represents a significant boost for the country’s creative and entertainment sectors, while also spotlighting the growing global appeal of Nigerian cuisine.
Viewers have been encouraged to tune in, support their favourite contestants, and be part of what organisers describe as a historic moment for food and entertainment in Nigeria.
