Nigeria’s popular reality TV show, Big Brother Naija (BBNaija), is set to return for its ninth season on Sunday, July 28, 2024.
This season, contestants will compete for a grand prize of N100 million and a brand-new SUV, among other rewards.
The cash prize is N20m less than the N120m won by the winner of the last edition of the popular show.
Last year’s winner, Ilebaye Odiniya, took home a N120 million grand prize during the all-stars (8th) season.
The show’s organiser, MultiChoice Nigeria, assures viewers that this season will uphold the high standards of entertainment and drama that fans have come to expect from the series.
“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 has been incredible,” said Dr Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa at MultiChoice at a press briefing to announce the new season.
“The theme for this season will be announced at the premiere as housemates enter the house in pairs. This innovative format promises to deliver fresh dynamics and unforgettable entertainment.”
The organisers previously announced that this year’s season promises “double drama, relationships, and huge competition.”
They hinted at “new twists and unknown housemates ready to become your new faves,” promising a season filled with shocking twists, explosive drama, and alliances that will keep viewers guessing.
The show’s premiere will air on all Africa Magic channels at 7 pm WAT on July 28. The competition will span a total of 71 days, concluding on October 6, 2024, when the winner will be awarded the N100 million grand prize and the SUV.
According to the organisers auditions for the ninth season began on March 27 and concluded on May 4.
This year’s prize, although N20 million short of the previous one, still promises to be highly coveted.
BBNaija first aired in 2006 but gained massive popularity with its revival in 2017.
The show has since become a staple of Nigerian pop culture, providing a unique platform for contestants to showcase their personalities, talents, and ambitions.
Over the years, BBNaija has evolved to include various themes, twists, and challenges that keep viewers glued to their screens. The show’s ability to adapt and innovate has been a key factor in its enduring popularity.
BBNaija has not been without its controversies. Critics have often pointed to the show’s sometimes explicit content and the behaviour of housemates as problematic.
However, supporters argue that the show reflects real-life dynamics and sparks important societal discussions.
