Big Brother Naija Season 11 officially began on Sunday with the unveiling of the first 24 housemates set to compete for the show’s record-breaking ₦160 million grand prize.
During the live premiere hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, the contestants were introduced to viewers, shared brief details about their personalities and ambitions, and made their way into Biggie’s house.
The launch marks the beginning of another highly anticipated edition of Nigeria’s biggest reality television show, with more housemates expected to join the competition as the premiere continues.
The first batch of contestants features a diverse mix of professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives, and entertainers drawn from different parts of Nigeria. From streamers and chefs to pharmacists, actors, fashion designers and web developers, the housemates enter the competition with varying personalities, backgrounds and strategies, all hoping to emerge as the winner of the lucrative cash prize.
Several contestants made it clear that they are entering the house with a singular focus on winning, while others admitted they are open to finding love or simply looking forward to the experience.
Their introductions revealed a combination of confidence, ambition, humour and competitive spirit, qualities expected to shape relationships and rivalries throughout the season.
Among those unveiled was 24-year-old Lagos-based streamer Tram, who described himself as determined and uninterested in romance, insisting his only goal is victory. Martins, a 30-year-old visual storyteller and model from Kogi State, said he was swapping the runway for Biggie’s house in search of fun, while joking about his supposed ability to read minds.
Abi, a chef and model from Osun State, promised to bring confidence, humour and plenty of energy into the house, while Chimsom Chuka, a 27-year-old pharmacist from Anambra State, described himself as patient, funny and authentic, adding that he thrives under pressure. Benue-born web developer Keivo also expressed confidence in his abilities, saying he enjoys gaming, painting and drawing and remains open to finding love.
Mercedes, a massage therapist and concierge business owner from Delta State, said she would compete with ambition and “boss energy,” while event planner Kamsy promised style, humour and enough drama to keep viewers entertained.
Lagos dancer and choreographer Sultex highlighted his confidence and passion for gaming, football and table tennis, while Abuja-based freelance teacher and web developer Aikou said he values honesty and is ready to give love another chance.
The female contestants also include Flora, a makeup entrepreneur, Bells, a resilient food lover still in love with her high school sweetheart, and 21-year-old Temi Nkem, who declared she would play strictly by her own rules. Lagos on-air personality Gerald described himself as an open book determined to enjoy every moment, while sales entrepreneur and model Oyin said she hopes to prove that first impressions can be misleading.
Other contestants introduced during the launch were Sheba, a gym enthusiast and mother; fashion model Araga, who described himself as the “last loverboy standing”; Port Harcourt writer Ricky; fashion designer Nomy from Anambra; civil engineer and designer Barry; Neche, who promised brains, beauty and confidence; actor Yusuf from Kogi; musician Goddessa from Abia; photographer and student Bluethophia from Adamawa; and entrepreneur and actor Cassi from Abia, who admitted his overly organised nature could become a challenge in the house.
Organisers of the TV show confirmed that additional housemates are expected to be unveiled as the live launch show progresses. Viewers can follow the reality show around the clock on DStv Channel 198 and GOtv Channel 49 as the contestants begin their journey toward the ₦160 million grand prize.
