MasterChef has officially landed in Nigeria. Brought to the country by African media giant Primedia, MasterChef Nigeria, the inaugural local adaptation of the globally renowned reality cooking competition, is set to transform the Nigerian culinary landscape and spotlight passionate home cooks.
According to a statement from the organisers, the winner of MasterChef Nigeria will take home ₦73m and become the first-ever Nigerian MasterChef. Entries are now open, with the closing date set for February 27, 2026.
The show will air on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family on DStv.
MasterChef Nigeria forms part of the global MasterChef television franchise, represented internationally by Banijay Entertainment, the content powerhouse behind hit series such as Big Brother and Survivor.
The Nigerian deal was negotiated by Banijay Rights, the global distribution arm of Banijay Entertainment.
Created by Franc Roddam and first launched in 1990, the MasterChef format has been produced in over 70 countries. Recognised by Guinness World Records as the most successful cookery show in the world, the franchise has aired more than 700 seasons and 16,000 episodes globally.
Speaking on the launch, Tamara van Eeckhoven, Managing Director at Primedia Africa, described MasterChef Nigeria as a major television milestone.
“MasterChef Nigeria will celebrate the country’s exquisite cuisine, innovative food culture and vibrant culinary traditions, while unearthing and nurturing talent with the potential to become Nigeria’s next generation of distinguished chefs,” she said.
She encouraged aspiring contestants to seize the opportunity to gain national recognition in Nigeria’s growing food industry.
Chief Executive Officer of Africa Magic, Kemi Omotosho, said the show reflects the broadcaster’s commitment to premium local content.
“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,” she said.
Sarah Mottershead, Vice President, Middle East, Africa, Israel, Greece and Cyprus at Banijay Rights, said the expansion of the format into Nigeria underscores its global appeal.
In the competition, selected home cooks from across the country will participate in culinary challenges designed to test originality, technique, flavour mastery and presentation. Contestants will prepare both traditional and contemporary dishes inspired by Nigeria’s diverse food heritage while meeting global culinary standards.
Judges, who are yet to be announced, will evaluate each challenge and determine which contestants advance. The last contestant standing will win the MasterChef Nigeria title and the ₦73m prize.
Eligibility requirements state that applicants must be Nigerian citizens aged 18 or older, hold a valid passport and must not have earned a living as professional chefs.
