The global cooking franchise MasterChef is launching its Nigerian edition. African media company Primedia is bringing the format to the country, marking the first local adaptation of the internationally recognised reality cooking competition.
Accorring to the organisers,the winner of MasterChef Nigeria will receive a ₦73 million prize and be crowned the first Nigerian champion of the franchise. Applications are now open and will close on February 27, 2026.
To be eligible, applicants must be Nigerian citizens aged 18 or older, hold a valid passport, and must not have worked as professional chefs. Entries can be submitted via the official application portal, where full requirements and guidelines are provided.
The show is scheduled to air on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family on DStv as part of the global MasterChef franchise. The format is distributed internationally by Banijay Entertainment, with rights for the Nigerian version negotiated through its distribution arm, Banijay Rights.
Created by Franc Roddam and first launched in 1990, MasterChef holds the Guinness World Record as the world’s most successful cookery television format. Commissioned in more than 70 markets, the show has produced hundreds of seasons and thousands of episodes worldwide, spotlighting home cooks and local food cultures across different countries.