The Voice Nigeria returns on 27 March

The Voice Nigeria is the local version of international reality TV singing contest The Voice. Put together by UN1TY Limited and Livespot360, the show, which first hit the screens in April 2016, looks to provide a platform for undiscovered singers in the country to showcase their talent. It will reward the ultimate winner with a cash prize, a new car and an international recording contract.

“Since we kicked off registration for The Voice Season 3 in 2020, we have been amazed by the reception that we received,” UN1TY managing director and Season 3 executive producer Akin Salami said. “The array of Nigerian talents we have seen has been nothing short of exceptional and we are excited to show the world the quality of talent and entertainment in Nigeria. 

“With the invaluable support of our sponsors, production partners ITV, Universal Music UK and YouTube, and now, our broadcast partners Africa Magic, AIT, Views TV, and Wazobia TV, we are confident that the talents and the viewing audience are in for a bigger, better and more exciting experience.”

Meanwhile, broadcasters Nancy Isime and Toke Makinwa have been confirmed as hosts for the new season, with musicians Darey, Yemi Alade, Waje and Falz as coaches.

The show’s format features four stages of competition: blind auditions, knockouts, battle rounds and live performance shows. The coaches will each select three talents for their respective teams, thereafter grooming them for the live shows. 

“First and foremost, I’ll be looking out for the passion in the voices that will be on this season of The Voice Nigeria,” Yemi Alade said. “You have to be original in your sound. The music must be true to you. You must be able to tap into the core of your music … I’ll be looking out for those who don't know themselves yet – I’ll help them to find themselves.”

“I’m looking forward to bringing my little wealth of experience,” Darey said. “Hopefully, I can impart as much as possible and guide the super talents we are going to be seeing on The Voice for this season. I want to share, I want to teach, I want to coach and I also want to learn from [the contestants], and so it’s going to be a great process.”

The show’s previous winners are A’rese and Idyl. Season 3 of The Voice Nigeria will air on African Magic Showcase (DStv channel 151), Urban (DStv channel 153), and Family (DStv channel 154, GOTV 2) on Saturdays at 8pm WAT, and on Sundays on AIT, Views TV, Wazobia TV and Wazobia TV Max at 6pm.