The search for the Next Afrobeat Star, aimed at nurturing emerging talents through professional development, mentorship, and exporting Nigerian music across the world, continues with more than 50 contestants making it to the finals.

The event, which was birthed by MTN Nigeria and Ultima Studios, launched the talent hunt program “Next Afrobeats Star,” a music reality competition aimed at identifying and developing emerging Afrobeats talent.

Oluwabori Richards, Head of Content, Research, and Development at Ultima Limited, expressed joy about the Afrobeats Star competition, saying it was apt to launch a project that grooms and harvests emerging artists.

He stressed that the competition will feature online registration and in-person auditions for the finals in Lagos.

Contestants who made it to the finals will be given deals worth $25,000 to $75,000, and the winner will receive a $100,000 music deal and a pre-recording contract.

The competition is hoped to engage the youths, create jobs, and improve the economy.