The world-famous reality cooking show, MasterChef Nigeria, has officially arrived in Nigeria, opening a nationwide search for the country’s best home cook.
The winner will take home ₦73 million and the historic title of Nigeria’s first MasterChef.
Brought to the country by African media giant Primedia Africa, MasterChef Nigeria is set to transform the local culinary landscape and provide a platform for passionate home cooks to showcase their creativity and skill. The competition is now open for entries, which close on February 27, 2026.
The series will air on DStv’s Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family channels and forms part of the global MasterChef franchise, represented internationally by Banijay Entertainment, the producer behind iconic shows such as Big Brother and Survivor.
Since its creation by Franc Roddam in 1990, MasterChef has aired over 16,000 episodes across 720 territories, earning recognition from Guinness World Records as the world’s most successful cookery show.
“MasterChef Nigeria is a major television milestone that will celebrate the country’s exquisite cuisine and vibrant culinary traditions while unearthing and mentoring the next generation of distinguished chefs,” said Tamara van Eeckhoven, Managing Director of Primedia Africa.
CEO of Africa Magic, Kemi Omotosho, added that the show reflects a commitment to premium local content that showcases Nigerian culture to audiences across Africa and globally.
Also, VP at Banijay Rights, Sarah Mottershead, said the partnership with Primedia will deliver an iconic TV experience to Nigerian viewers.
Contestants from across Nigeria will face a series of challenges testing originality, technique, flavor mastery, and presentation, preparing both traditional and contemporary dishes inspired by Nigeria’s culinary heritage.
Esteemed Nigerian chefs, soon to be announced as judges, will evaluate each dish, and the last cook standing will win the ₦73 million prize.
MasterChef Nigeria’s first edition is proudly sponsored by Power Oil, whose leadership praised the show for celebrating culinary excellence and creativity.
To enter, applicants must be Nigerian citizens aged 18 or older, hold a valid passport, and must not have worked professionally as a chef. Interested home cooks can apply through the official website: www.masterchefnigeria.com, where eligibility requirements and application forms are available
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