BBNaija Season 11 Begins as 24 Housemates Chase Record ₦160m Prize

Big Brother Naija returned on Sunday with the launch of its 11th season, introducing 24 housemates who will compete over the next 72 days for a record grand prize worth ₦160 million.

Hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, this year’s edition is themed “Everything Is For The Taking,” also known as “Show Ya Sef,” and promises fresh twists, bigger rewards and a newly redesigned house.

The winner of Season 11 will receive ₦100 million in cash and an SUV, making it the biggest prize package in the history of the reality TV show.

The new contestants come from diverse backgrounds, including entrepreneurs, lawyers, engineers, students, broadcasters, creatives and business owners, each hoping to emerge as this season’s champion.

Among the first housemates introduced was Tram, a 24-year-old streamer from Lagos, who declared that his sole mission is to win the competition rather than pursue romance.

He was followed by Temi Nkem, a 21-year-old model raised in London, who described herself as someone who lives life on her own terms.

One of the night’s biggest talking points was Abi, a 25-year-old chef and model from Osun State, whose revelation that she is married quickly sparked conversations on social media.

Another contestant, Martins, a 30-year-old visual storyteller from Kogi State, also drew attention after revealing he is already in a relationship despite joining the reality show.

The remaining housemates are Chimsom Chuka, Keivo, Mercedes, Kamsi, Sultex, Aikou, Flora, Bells, Gerard, Oyin, Sheba, Araga, Ricky, Nomy, Barry, Neche, Yusuf, Goddessa, Bluethopia and Cassi.

During the premiere, contestants shared different strategies for navigating the competition, with some planning to build alliances and others insisting they would focus solely on winning the prize.

The organisers also unveiled a newly redesigned BBNaija house featuring an “upside-down” concept with bold colours and luxury interiors to reflect the unpredictable nature of the season.

According to MultiChoice, the house was built over several months and equipped with advanced production technology, including 52 robotic PTZ cameras, seven handheld cameras, 59 microphones, 36 antenna blades and 19 speakers to ensure uninterrupted live coverage.

The organisers added that the annual production provides employment for more than 1,000 Nigerians, including engineers, carpenters, electricians, decorators, camera operators, technical crews and caterers.

Executive Head of Content and Channels for West Africa, Atinuke Babatunde, said the new season builds on the show’s legacy with higher stakes, fresh personalities and new twists designed to keep viewers entertained until the finale.

The premiere immediately generated widespread reactions on social media, with fans discussing contestants’ personalities, relationships and early favourites to win the competition.

Season 11 succeeds the 2025 edition, which was won by Imisi.