MTN Nigeria Kicks Off Next Afrobeats Star Season 2 with ₦225 Million Prize

MTN Nigeria has started the second season of its music reality show, Next Afrobeats Star (NAS). The grand prize is now a ₦225 million recording deal and a brand-new car.

The telecom company made the announcement on Monday. They confirmed that entries opened on 18 July and will close on 17 August. This competition, done with Ultima Studios and ONErpm, aims to find and grow new Afrobeats talent in Nigeria.

Bigger Grand Prize

MTN stated that the winner will take home a recording deal worth ₦225 million. This will cover music production, marketing, distribution, and accommodation, plus a new car.

The first runner-up will get a ₦150 million recording deal. The second, third, and fourth runners-up will receive packages of ₦100 million, ₦75 million, and ₦50 million, respectively. Contestants will be judged by music producers Puffy Tee, Ragee, Andre Vibez, and Masterkraft.

What the Organisers Say

At the launch, Emamoke Ogoro, MTN Nigeria’s General Manager for Brands and Communication, said the competition shows the company’s commitment to giving young Nigerians chances in the creative industry. She noted that contestants from the first season gained national attention, released original songs on global streaming platforms, and kept full ownership of their work.

“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,” Ms Ogoro said.

Femi Ayeni, CEO of Ultima Studios, called Next Afrobeats Star “more than a television programme.” He pointed out that it provides a way into the music business for new artists who need investment and professional help.

Looking Back at Previous Success

In the first edition, Ayo Benzi won a ₦150 million recording deal. Other finalists like Dave Cash, Kaeko, Somto O’Laker, and Lucky Yay! also got recording contracts. MTN reports that these winners have since released original music on major streaming platforms.

How to Apply

Those interested can register by texting ‘NAS’ to 13013. There is a registration fee of ₦600. After that, applicants will get a link to finish their registration and upload their audition entries.

Regional auditions will happen in Lagos, Jos, Enugu, and Benin. Shortlisted contestants will move on to the televised parts of the competition, which will include rounds like Trials, Versus, Pick Me, Live Shows, and the Grand Showdown. The final winner will be chosen by public voting.