Africa's favourite reality show, “Big Brother Naija”, returned on Sunday. And guess what?
This year, it's going to be double the fun and double the drama, literally. For the first time ever, contestants entered the house in pairs, setting the stage for some wild alliances and even wilder showdowns.
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane. Previous seasons have been nothing short of entertaining: “See Gobe” (2017) was the drama-packed season that got everyone talking with its unforgettable twists and turns.
From explosive fights to surprising alliances, the season set the bar high for reality TV.
“Pepper Dem” (2019) served up plenty of spice with its dramatic housemates and jaw-dropping moments. Highlights included the infamous "fake eviction" and the intense love triangle that kept viewers glued to their screens.
“Lockdown” (2020) was a game-changer, with the show navigating the challenges of the pandemic. It brought us some of the most memorable personalities and drama, setting new standards for the show.
“Shine Ya Eye” (2021) had fans on the edge of their seats with its mix of glamorous contestants and shocking eliminations. The season's stand-out moments included unexpected twists and high-stakes competition.
“All Stars” (2023) reunited fan favourites and past winners, creating a nostalgic yet fresh experience. The drama was heightened by the return of familiar faces, making headlines with every new episode.
But forget everything you know from previous seasons where the housemates strolled in solo. This time, “Big Brother” has shaken things up. No more lone wolves, we're talking besties, family members and even partners, teaming up to play the game.
Dr Busola Tejumola, Executive Head, Content & Channels, West Africa at MultiChoice, said during a media briefing: "What we asked for this year was for pairs to enter, which is a first. Individuals usually enter as singles, but this year, we asked for people to come with their friends, besties, family members, wives, husbands, partners, to enter the show together as a pair."
With a diverse mix of contestants and a whopping N100 million (over ZAR 1 million) in cash and prizes on the line, the stakes are higher than ever.
Tejumola is pumped about the season, saying: "We are delighted to introduce a brand-new season of ‘Big Brother Naija’. The excitement on social media and the curiosity about this ninth season have been incredible."