MTN and Ultima Studios Launch New Reality Show to Discover the Next Afrobeats Star
MTN Nigeria has officially thrown its weight behind the Afrobeats movement with the launch of a brand new music reality competition. Next Afrobeats Star is not just another talent show. It is a cultural statement, a growth platform, and an open door for young Nigerian creatives with dreams of music stardom.
Unveiled at the MTN Rooftop Event Centre in Ikoyi on August 2, 2025, this new reality show signals a bold commitment to unearthing raw musical talent and turning it into global success stories.
A Platform for Progress
According to Onyinye Ikenna Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer at MTN Nigeria, the show was born out of a deeper purpose.
Next Afrobeats Star is our commitment to progress, she said during the launch. We want every Nigerian, regardless of where they come from, to feel connected, seen, and heard. Afrobeats is a global force, but we believe the journey is just beginning.
The goal is clear. Connect raw talent with real opportunity. The show is designed to give everyday Nigerians the chance to not only showcase their gifts but also access professional development, mentorship, and life changing record deals.
Power Partnerships and Life Changing Deals
The show is powered by a strong collaboration between MTN Nigeria, Ultima Studios, and ONErpm, one of the fastest growing global music companies. Together, they are offering more than just a trophy.
The grand prize is a $100,000 music deal, made possible through a partnership with U Records. Even more, the top four finalists will receive music deals worth between $25,000 and $75,000. For emerging talents, this could be the kind of launchpad that changes everything.
This effort aligns closely with the Nigerian Government’s Destination 2030 strategy, which is focused on positioning Nigeria as Africa’s capital of creative excellence.
This is not just about entertainment, Ikenna Emeka explained. It is about economic growth, cultural pride, and global recognition.
What Makes This Show Different
Femi Ayeni, CEO of Ultima Studios, is no stranger to creating unforgettable TV moments. His studio has been behind some of Nigeria’s most successful reality shows, including Project Fame and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.
But this time, something different is happening.
For the first time, we are having top producers create original songs for the contestants, Ayeni said. Covers will still be performed, but original tracks will be what determines a contestant’s growth on the show.
Producers on board include Andre Vibez, Puffy Tee, Sarz, and P Prime. These are names that carry serious weight in the Afrobeats industry.
How to Enter Next Afrobeats Star
The competition is open to all Nigerians. Registration is simple. To begin, text NAS to 13013 using an MTN line. You will receive a unique code and a link to the official website, where you will fill out your registration.
Oluwabori Richards, Head of Content at Ultima Studios, shared further details. Once on the site, applicants can choose from 10 to 12 beats produced by the four major producers. Contestants are to record their own music using one of those instrumentals and upload it to the portal.
Entries will be reviewed by A and R executives from ONErpm. This ensures that only the best talents move forward.
Auditions will take place both digitally and physically in cities like Jos, Enugu, and Lagos. From there, 300 contestants will be shortlisted to move on to the first official round known as The Trial. That will be the first time they perform before a panel of judges.
Creating Pathways Beyond Fame
Beyond the lights, stage, and cameras, MTN’s mission is to create access. This show is not just about winning. It is about building careers and equipping young Nigerians with the tools to succeed in a fast evolving industry.
MTN believes the future of Afrobeats belongs to the streets, villages, cities, and dreams of everyday people. The company is betting big on that future and on the talents who are yet to be discovered.
About MTN Nigeria
MTN Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest providers of communications services, connecting over 84.7 million people in communities across the country with each other and the world. Guided by a belief that everybody deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life, MTN Nigeria’s leadership position in coverage, capacity, and innovation has remained constant since its launch in 2001. MTN Nigeria is part of the MTN Group – a multinational telecommunications group, which operates in 16 countries in Africa and the Middle East.
To learn more about MTN Nigeria and its various initiatives, visit: www.mtn.ng
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Lakinbofa Goodluck
Public Relations Manager,
MTN Nigeria Communications Plc
Telephone: +234 803 200 0224
Email: Lakinbofa.goodluck@mtn.com
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