FACES OF BBN CHAMPIONS
Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) reality TV show has captivated Nigerian audiences since its inception in 2006, launching the careers of numerous contestants and transforming them into household names.
This famous Nigerian reality TV show, based on the global Big Brother franchise, features an unseen figure known as “Big Brother” who guides contestants through tasks, rules, and challenges.
The goal is to win a grand prize, which includes cash and other rewards, by avoiding eviction through public voting.
Housemates live in the Big Brother house for a period, typically between 10-12 weeks. They come from various backgrounds, including music, acting, business, and more.
How The Show Works
Housemates from different tribes, backgrounds, religions and races live together in an isolated house, cut off from the outside world while being continuously monitored by cameras.
The housemates’ goal is to win a grand prize by avoiding eviction through public voting. Each week, housemates face nomination for eviction, and viewers vote to save their favourites. The last contestant or the one with the most votes is declared the winner.
Meet Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) Winners From 2006 Till Date
Since its inception, BBNaija has produced nine winners. Let’s take a look at their journeys:
Katung Aduwak (Season 1, 2006, No Theme)
The first-ever winner of Big Brother Nigeria is Katung Aduwak who took home a whopping sum of $100,000.
New Telegraph reports that Katung Aduwak is a filmmaker and media expert.
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Efe Ejeba (Season 2, 2017, See Gobbe)
Efe became the second winner of Big Brother Naija with a winning prize of #25 million.
See Gobbe Season was brought back after a long hiatus and Efe won with his “Based on Logistics” catchphrase and pursued a music career afterwards.
Miracle Igbokwe (Season 3, 2018, Double Wahala)
The Double Wahala season was known for its intense drama and confrontations and was won by Miracle Igbokwe in 2018.
Miracle’s calm demeanour earned him the top spot during the season. He later obtained his commercial pilot license.
Mercy Eke (Season 4, 2019, Pepper Dem Gang)
Pepper Dem Gang Season four of the reality TV show was full of controversies and bold personalities.
Mercy Eke won the season with a price of ₦60 million making her the first female to have won the reality TV show since inception.
Following her win, Mercy made history as the first female winner and became a successful media personality.
Olamilekan Agbeleshe known As Laycon (Season 5, 2020, Lockdown)
This season tagged, the Lockdown happened during the COVID-19 pandemic and was a major success.
Olamilekan Agbeleshe, better known as Laycon’s intelligence and musical talent captivated audiences. He ventured into music after the show and also further his education due to his love for knowledge.
Hazel Oyeze Onou Known as White Money (Season 6, 2021, Shine Ya Eye)
Shine Ya Eye season 6 edition of the reality TV show was marked by a mix of strategies and personalities with drama following the “Wide Card” deployment which threw viewers to suspense and anticipation of what the season will hold.
Whitemoney’s charisma and cooking skills won fans over during the show making him the winner of the Season 6 edition of the show.
He, however, pursued his music and business career afterward.
Ijeoma Josephina Otabor Popularly Known as Phyna, (Season 7, 2022, Level Up)
Phyna’s outspoken personality made her a standout during the show.
After the reality show, she pursued her acting career.
Ilebaye Precious Odiniya Widely Known as GenZ Baddie, (Season 8, 2023All Stars)
Ilebaye Odiniya is the winner of the eighth season of the Big Brother Naija Reality TV show tagged All-Stars seasons.
Baye won the All-Stars season with a record-breaking prize.
Kingsley Sule, popularly known as Kellyrae (Season 9, 2024)
Kellyrae entered the show with his wife, Kassia Sule who was evicted in the penultimate week of the just concluded reality TV show.
His strategic gameplay earned him the top spot.
Kellyrae won with a prize of ₦100 million (₦60 million cash, SUV, and other sponsored prizes)
The Impact Of Big Brother Naija
BBN has significantly influenced Nigerian entertainment, launching careers and providing a platform for talented individuals.
With its engaging format and suspenseful challenges, the show remains a favorite among audiences.