The 26-year-old culinary star, Favour Bessan, widely known as “Chef Favy” on social media, clinched the historic crown during the MasterChef Nigeria Season 1 Grand Finale broadcast on July 19, 2026.
Her victory marks a monumental moment for Nigerian television and the country’s growing culinary scene.
A Well-Deserved Win
Favy walked away with the staggering ₦73 million cash prize and the coveted debut MasterChef Nigeria trophy.
The showdown saw her defeat fellow finalist Fads in a gruelling two-hour, three-course meal cook-off under the watchful eyes of judges Chef Stone and Chef Eros.
Her journey wasn’t without its highlights. Earlier in the season, she made further history as the very first contestant to earn the MasterChef Nigeria Immunity Pin—an achievement that proved essential for her path to the finals.
A Victory for Warri and Home Cooks Everywhere
Proudly representing Warri throughout the 13-week competition, Favy dedicated her emotional victory to aspiring home cooks across the country. Her consistent excellence and strategic cooking secured her place as the nation’s first-ever MasterChef champion.
While she runs her culinary and baking business—Favy Grills Pastries N More—out of Agbarho, Delta State, she moved to Lagos for the MasterChef competition, representing Shomolu during the show’s run. Her proud Delta roots and Niger Delta heritage heavily inspired her cooking throughout the season.
“Chef Favy” is widely known by her social media handle @favours_epiphany and has already built a loyal following of food enthusiasts. With her historic win, she has not only secured her place in culinary history but also inspired a new generation of Nigerian home cooks to chase their dreams.
