Nigeria is now home to one of the biggest cooking franchises in history, MasterChef, a format widely recognized for changing lives and shaping careers for millions globally.
Produced by Primedia in partnership with Power Oil, the franchise debuts in the country, creating a platform for visibility, growth, and the opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s diverse food culture, local talent, and inspire the next generation of home cooks.
Set to premiere in April, the first season aims to establish the foundation for the franchise’s success and possible return seasons in the country. Here is everything known so far about MasterChef Nigeria.
The Type of Contestants
Contestants will be selected based on culinary skills, enthusiasm, drive, a passion for food, and a desire to transform their lives. The competition is open strictly to enthusiastic amateur home cooks or individuals who cook regularly, are comfortable in the kitchen, and possess strong recipes and culinary techniques. Final selections will be made by producers with the guidance of culinary experts.
The show prioritizes home cooks. Professional or certified chefs, such as Hilda Baci, are not eligible to compete. This approach strengthens the reality aspect of the competition, as contestants are not expected to have prior media training or on-camera experience. Influencer home cooks are also eligible to apply.
Applications closed on February 27, with physical auditions ongoing. Filming is scheduled to take place from March 15 to April 2, 2026, with final participation confirmed for shortlisted candidates.
The Competition
According to the organizers, MasterChef Nigeria will challenge contestants to push beyond their limits, refine their craft, and compete at the highest level. The kitchen becomes a battleground where ambition, discipline, resilience, and creativity intersect, allowing everyday cooks to emerge as standout talent.
Ten home cooks from across the country will compete before three celebrity judges. Throughout the season, contestants will face a series of challenges designed to test their culinary skills, creativity, and consistency. Ultimately, one contestant will remain and be crowned Nigeria’s MasterChef.
The Prize Pot
The winner of MasterChef Nigeria will receive a cash prize of ₦73 million, along with the title of MasterChef Nigeria.
Judges: Chef Eros and Chef Stone
Two of the three celebrity judges have been announced, with the third yet to be revealed.
Tolulope Eros, popularly known as Chef Eros, is the founder of Cooking Jar and Ìlè Eros restaurant in Lagos. Trained in both local and international culinary techniques, he is known for reimagining traditional Nigerian dishes with contemporary presentation while maintaining global standards. Beyond the kitchen, he is a culinary entrepreneur and mentor committed to promoting African cuisine internationally. He has won a Los Angeles Area Television Academy Emmy for his work with Rebel Kitchens and has hosted notable personalities, including actor Michael B. Jordan, whom he served Nigerian cuisine.
Chef Stone, a culinary entrepreneur and cookbook author, is the founder of Red Dish Culinary School, with branches in Lagos and Abuja, where he trains aspiring chefs in technical skills and kitchen leadership. Known for his emphasis on flavour profiling and mentorship, he is expected to bring structure and discipline to the judging panel.
Both judges bring significant experience in the global food industry, positioning them to guide and evaluate emerging Nigerian culinary talent effectively.
Broadcast Details
All episodes of MasterChef Nigeria will be available both online and on Africa Magic. The season is scheduled to premiere on Sunday, April 26, 2026, and will run until July 19, 2026, airing at 7:00 p.m.
Nigeria becomes the 71st country and the second African country to host the MasterChef franchise. With expectations high, the show will follow a real-time competition format defined by time constraints, pressure, and structured judging, as home cooks compete to prove their ability to perform under intense conditions.
The show will stream on both online and television platforms, with anticipation building around how the judges will identify the next Nigerian culinary star.