Next Afrobeats Star Returns! Season 2 Opens Entry For Rising Talents

According to Ireporter Online, organisers of Next Afrobeats Star have announced the return of the music reality competition for its second season, with MTN Nigeria, Ultima Studios and ONErpm unveiling a bigger platform aimed at discovering and nurturing Nigeria’s next Afrobeats sensation.

Following the success of its debut season, the competition has returned with an expanded prize package and a renewed search for talented young artists across the country. Entries for Season 2 opened on July 18, 2026, and will close on August 17, 2026.

The organisers revealed that the winner of the second edition will receive a recording deal worth ₦225 million, covering music production, marketing, distribution and accommodation, alongside a brand-new car.

The first runner-up will secure a recording deal valued at ₦150 million, while the second, third and fourth runners-up will receive deals worth ₦100 million, ₦75 million and ₦50 million respectively.

Contestants will be assessed and mentored by a panel of experienced music professionals, including renowned producers and songwriters Puffy Tee, Ragee, Andre Vibez and Masterkraft, who will use their expertise to identify and develop emerging talents.

The competition will begin with regional auditions in Lagos, Jos, Enugu and Benin, after which selected contestants will advance to different stages where they will collaborate with top music producers and industry mentors.

Participants will compete through various stages, including Trials, Versus, Pick Me, Live Shows and the Grand Showdown, with the eventual winner determined through public voting.

The first season of the competition produced several promising talents, including winner Ayo Benzi, who secured a ₦150 million recording deal, while finalists Dave Cash, Kaeko, Somto O’Laker and Lucky Yay! also received recording contracts.

Speaking on the return of the show, General Manager of Brands and Communication at MTN Nigeria, Emamoke Ogoro, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians by creating opportunities for talented individuals to build successful music careers.

She explained that the first season provided contestants with more than exposure, as participants released original music on major streaming platforms, retained ownership of their works and gained valuable industry connections.

Ogoro added that the second season would focus on creating even greater opportunities by connecting grassroots talents with a wider audience and a stronger platform.

Also speaking on the partnership, Chief Executive Officer of Ultima Studios, Femi Ayeni, said the new season would build on the achievements of the first edition while providing emerging artists with improved support, investment and access to the music industry.

Ayeni described Next Afrobeats Star as more than just a television competition, saying it serves as a pathway for talented Nigerians to transition into professional music careers.

He added that Season 2 would raise the standard with bigger opportunities, greater rewards and a stronger commitment to discovering the next generation of Afrobeats stars.