MTN Nigeria Unveils Next Afrobeats Star Season 2: Who Will Take the Crown?
MTN Nigeria has announced the second season of the Next Afrobeats Star music competition, following the success of its inaugural edition. The competition returns with an expanded prize package and a renewed search for Nigeria's next Afrobeats star.
Expanded Prize Package for Season 2
This year's edition features an impressive prize package. The winner will receive a recording deal valued at ₦225 million, covering music production, marketing, distribution, and accommodation, alongside a brand new car. The first runner-up will receive a recording deal valued at ₦150 million, while the second, third, and fourth runners-up will receive recording deals valued at ₦100 million, ₦75 million, and ₦50 million, respectively.
The prize package has been expanded to provide more opportunities for emerging artists, according to Emamoke Ogoro, General Manager, Brands and Communication, MTN Nigeria. "The size of the door it opens is the most significant change," she said. "We are opening that door even wider by connecting grassroots talent to a national stage."
A Platform for Discovering and Developing New Music Talent
MTN Nigeria's Next Afrobeats Star is more than a television program; it is a real pipeline into the music business. The competition has already introduced audiences to exceptional talents, including Ayo Benzi, who won a ₦150 million recording deal in Season 1. The success of Season 1 has validated the belief that Nigeria is overflowing with extraordinary music talent.
The competition is produced in partnership with Ultima Studios and ONErpm, and contestants will be guided and evaluated by an esteemed panel of judges comprising acclaimed producers and songwriters Puffy Tee, Ragee, Andre Vibez, and Masterkraft. Femi Ayeni, Chief Executive Officer of Ultima Studios, said Season 2 will build on the success of the inaugural edition while creating even greater opportunities for emerging artists.
Entries Now Open for Season 2
Entries for Next Afrobeats Star Season 2 opened on July 18, 2026, and closes on August 17, 2026. Interested contestants can register by sending NAS to 13013. A registration fee of ₦600 applies. Participants will then receive a link to complete their registration, upload their entry, and begin the audition process.
Regional auditions will take place in Lagos, Jos, Enugu, and Benin before shortlisted contestants progress to the competition stages, where they will work with leading music producers and mentors. Throughout the competition, contestants will compete in the Trials, Versus, Pick Me, Live Shows, and the Grand Showdown, with viewers deciding the eventual winner through public voting.
A Commitment to Empowering Young Nigerians
MTN Nigeria's Next Afrobeats Star reflects the company's commitment to empowering young Nigerians by creating platforms that transform talent into opportunity. The initiative reflects the company's commitment to creating opportunities for young Nigerians through creativity, innovation, and strategic partnerships that support the country's growing creative economy.
As Afrobeats continues its global rise, MTN Nigeria remains committed to ensuring that the next generation of Nigerian music stars has the opportunity to be discovered, developed, and celebrated.
Source: NotJustOk
