Organisers of the Next Afrobeats Star, MTN Nigeria, Ultima Studios and ONErpm, have unveiled plans for the second edition of the reality music competition.

The Next Afrobeats Star returns with an expanded prize package and a renewed search for Nigeria’s next Afrobeats star following the success of its inaugural edition, which discovered and rewarded some of Nigeria’s brightest emerging music talents.

Entries for Next Afrobeats Star Season two opened on July 18, 2026 and will be closed on August 17, 2026.

According to the organisers, season two features an expanded prize package that will see the winner receiving a recording deal valued at N225 million, covering music production, marketing, distribution and accommodation, alongside a brand new car. The first runner-up will receive a recording deal valued at N150 million recording contract, while the second, third and fourth runners-up will receive recording deals valued at N100 million, N75 million and N50 million, respectively.

Contestants will be guided and evaluated by an esteemed panel of judges comprising acclaimed producers and songwriters Puffy Tee, Ragee, Andre Vibez and Masterkraft, who will bring their industry expertise to the competition while helping identify and nurture Nigeria’s next Afrobeats star.

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.

Season one introduced audiences to exceptional talents including Ayo Benzi, who won a N150 million recording deal, alongside finalists Dave Cash, Kaeko, Somto O’Laker and Lucky Yay!, all of whom also secured recording contracts.

Commenting on the return of the show, Emamoke Ogoro, General Manager, Brands and Communication, MTN Nigeria, said Next Afrobeats Star reflects the company’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians by creating platforms that transform talent into opportunity. “Season 1 was our proof. Our contestants did not simply gain exposure; they released original music now available on major global streaming platforms. They left the competition owning their intellectual property, with industry credentials and meaningful relationships in a music industry that now knows their names.

“As we return for Season 2, the most significant change is not the size of the prize; it is the size of the door it opens. We are opening that door even wider by connecting grassroots talent to a national stage,” she said.

Also speaking about the partnership, 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.

“When we launched Season 1, we were driven by a simple but powerful belief that Nigeria is overflowing with extraordinary music talent, and that what many young people need is more than applause from friends and family. They need a credible platform, structured support, meaningful investment and a genuine opportunity to succeed. The achievements of our contestants since the first season have validated that belief. Next Afrobeats Star is more than a television programme; it is a real pipeline into the music business. As we launch Season 2, we are raising the bar with bigger opportunities, higher aspirations and even greater rewards for the next generation of Afrobeats stars,” he said. (The Nation News)