Next Afrobeat Star 2.0: MTN, Ultima raises winning bet for N225 million recording contract, others

MTN Nigeria and Entertainment Company, Ultima Studios, have unveiled the second season of the Next Afrobeats Star Talent Competition and increased the winner’s recording contract prize from N150 million to N225 million.

Organizers said while speaking to the media on Saturday in Lagos that the winner will also receive a brand new Mercedes-Benz SUV.

The organizers added that the first, second and third runners-up would earn recording contracts worth N100 million, N75 million and N50 million respectively.

“Next Afrobeats Star (NAS)” is a leading Nigerian music reality show organized by MTN Nigeria and Ultima Studios to discover and mentor emerging global music talent.

Speaking at the inauguration, Emamoke Ogoro, General Manager, Brand and Communications, MTN Nigeria, said the competition was designed to bridge the gap between musical talent and sustainable careers by giving emerging artists access to industry opportunities.

Ogoro said that unlike conventional talent shows where contestants perform existing songs, Next Afrobeats Star contestants are expected to create and perform original music, helping them build lasting careers beyond the competition.

He said all contestants’ songs will be released on major global streaming platforms, ensuring wider exposure and commercial opportunities for young artists.

According to her, six contestants from MTN’s grassroots talent discovery platform, along with one wildcard contestant, will join the main competition for the first time, expanding access for emerging talent nationwide.

Ogoro said applications will remain open until August 17, urging aspiring musicians to take advantage of the platform to launch professional careers in the music industry.

Previously, Ultima Studios head of content and development, Richard Oluwabori, said entries could be submitted physically during the regional auditions or online through the competition website using downloadable tools.

Oluwabori said contestants must be Nigerian citizens, at least 18 years old, possess strong musical talent and be willing to perform in front of live audiences.

He said the hearings will be held in Lagos from August 15 to August 17; in Benin from 21 August to 23 August; in Jos from August 28 to August 30 and Uyo from September 4 to September 6.

According to him, the top 200 contestants will perform before a panel of judges comprising returning judges, Obi Asika and ID Cabasa, along with new judges Masterkraft and Big Bird.

Oluwabori said songs performed during telecasts will be released immediately on streaming platforms, eliminating the wait until the end of the competition.

He expressed confidence that the second edition will attract significantly more entries and deepen opportunities for emerging Afrobeat talent across Nigeria.