Big Brother Naija has kicked off its 11th season, unveiling 24 housemates who will compete over the next 72 days for a record grand prize worth ₦160 million, the biggest reward in the reality show’s history.
Hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, the new season, themed “Everything Is For The Taking”, also known as “Show Ya Sef”, premiered on Sunday night with a redesigned house, fresh twists and a diverse cast drawn from across Nigeria.
The eventual winner will receive ₦100 million in cash and an SUV, as organisers promise a season with higher stakes and intense competition.
The contestants come from a range of professions, including lawyers, entrepreneurs, engineers, broadcasters, students, creatives and business owners, all vying for the coveted title.
Among the first housemates introduced was Tram, a 24-year-old streamer from Lagos, who said he was entering the competition with one goal.
“I’m here to win, not to find love,” he declared during his introduction.
Another early entrant,
Temi Nkem, a 21-year-old model raised in London, described herself as someone who lives life on her own terms.
One of the biggest talking points of the launch came from Abi, a 25-year-old chef and model from Osun State, whose revelation that she is married quickly sparked reactions on social media.
Similarly, Martins, a 30-year-old visual storyteller from Kogi State, disclosed that he is already in a relationship, adding to the early conversations surrounding the contestants’ personal lives.
Other housemates include Chimsom Chuka, Keivo, Mercedes, Kamsi, Sultex, Aikou, Flora, Bells, Gerard, Oyin, Sheba, Araga, Ricky, Nomy, Barry, Neche, Yusuf, Goddessa, Bluethopia and Cassi.
Several contestants outlined different approaches to the competition, with some planning to build alliances and others insisting they would focus solely on winning the grand prize.
The season also introduces a newly redesigned BBNaija house built around an “upside-down” concept, featuring bold colours and luxury interiors designed to reflect the unpredictable nature of the game.
According to MultiChoice, transforming the property into the BBNaija house takes months of planning, design and construction before it becomes a fully equipped television production facility.
The Lagos-based house is fitted with 52 robotic PTZ cameras, seven handheld cameras, 59 microphones, 36 antenna blades and 19 speakers, allowing continuous live coverage throughout the season.
The organisers said the annual production employs more than 1,000 Nigerians, including engineers, carpenters, electricians, decorators, camera operators, technical crews and caterers.
The Executive Head of Content and Channels for West Africa, Atinuke Babatunde, said the new season builds on the show’s legacy.
“Season 11 builds on the programme’s legacy of authentic storytelling with higher stakes, new twists and a fresh mix of personalities expected to keep audiences entertained until the finale,” she said.
The launch immediately dominated conversations on social media, with viewers debating contestants’ personalities, relationships and predicting early favourites.
Season 11 succeeds the 2025 edition, which was won by Imisi.
