Elevated experiences celebrating the culture through dance and rhythm
Elevated experiences celebrating the culture through dance and rhythm
The hunt for Nigeria’s next breakout star is officially on. MTN Nigeria has launched Season 2 of Next Afrobeats Star (NAS), the reality music competition that’s proving to be more than just another talent show—it’s becoming a legitimate launchpad for emerging artists in Africa’s most vibrant music scene.
Following a successful inaugural season that discovered genuine talent and transformed contestants into working artists, the telecommunications giant is going even bigger this time around. Produced alongside Ultima Studios and ONErpm, Season 2 comes with an expanded prize structure that should have aspiring Afrobeats artists across Nigeria reaching for their phones. The winner walks away with a ₦225 million recording deal that covers everything from production and marketing to distribution and accommodation, plus a brand new car. But here’s what makes this competition different: even the runners-up aren’t going home empty-handed. The first runner-up secures a ₦150 million deal, while the second, third, and fourth runners-up receive recording packages valued at ₦100 million, ₦75 million, and ₦50 million respectively.
Season 1 proved the competition’s credibility, with winner Ayo Benzi and finalists Dave Cash, Kaeko, Somto O’Laker, and Lucky Yay! all walking away with recording contracts and releasing music now available on major streaming platforms. “Our contestants did not simply gain exposure; they released original music now available on major global streaming platforms,” said Emamoke Ogoro, General Manager of Brands and Communication at MTN Nigeria. “They left the competition owning their intellectual property, with industry credentials and meaningful relationships in a music industry that now knows their names.” This year’s contestants will be evaluated by an impressive panel of industry heavyweights including producers and songwriters Puffy Tee, Ragee, Andre Vibez, and Masterkraft.
Registration opened on July 18, 2026, and runs until August 17, 2026. Aspiring stars can enter by texting NAS to 13013 (₦600 registration fee applies), then following the link to upload their audition material. Regional auditions will hit Lagos, Jos, Enugu, and Benin before the competition moves through its various stages—Trials, Versus, Pick Me, Live Shows, and the Grand Showdown—with the public ultimately deciding who takes home the top prize. As Afrobeats continues its global takeover, platforms like this are ensuring the next generation of Nigerian artists has the support system to turn raw talent into sustainable careers.
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