Big Brother Naija (BBNaija Season 11) returned in grand style on Sunday with the official launch of its 11th season, introducing 24 contestants who will compete over the next 72 days for the biggest reward in the history of the reality television show.
Hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, the new season is themed “Everything Is for the Taking,” popularly known as “Show Ya Sef.” Organisers say viewers should expect fresh twists, tougher competition and exciting entertainment as the contestants battle for the coveted title.
The winner of this year’s edition will receive a prize package worth ₦160 million, comprising ₦100 million in cash and a brand-new SUV, making it the richest reward since the show debuted.
The contestants come from diverse backgrounds, with participants drawn from professions including law, broadcasting, engineering, entrepreneurship, modelling, content creation, business and the creative industry.
Meet the Housemates
The first contestant to enter the house was Tram, a 24-year-old streamer from Lagos, who declared that his mission is to win the competition rather than pursue a romantic relationship.
He was followed by Temi Nkem, a 21-year-old model raised in London, who described herself as confident and determined to live life on her own terms.
One of the biggest moments of the premiere came when Abi, a 25-year-old chef and model from Osun State, disclosed that she is married, a revelation that immediately sparked conversations among viewers on social media.
Another contestant who attracted attention was Martins, a 30-year-old visual storyteller from Kogi State, who openly admitted that he is already in a relationship before entering the house.
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.
While some contestants revealed plans to build alliances and social connections inside the house, others insisted they intend to remain focused on the competition and avoid distractions.
New House, Bigger Production
This season also features a redesigned BBNaija house with an eye-catching “upside-down” concept, blending vibrant colours with luxury interiors to reflect the unpredictable nature of the competition.
According to the organisers, the construction of the house takes several months, beginning with concept development before progressing through design, sourcing and construction to transform an empty structure into a fully functional television production facility.
Situated beside the live studio in Lagos, the house is equipped with 52 robotic PTZ cameras, seven handheld cameras, 59 microphones, 36 antenna blades and 19 speakers to ensure uninterrupted coverage throughout the season.
The organisers also disclosed that the annual production creates employment opportunities for more than 1,000 Nigerians, including engineers, electricians, carpenters, decorators, camera operators, caterers, technical personnel and other support staff.
Speaking on the new season, Atinuke Babatunde, Executive Head of Content and Channels for West Africa, said Season 11 builds on the show’s tradition of authentic storytelling while introducing higher stakes, new twists and a dynamic mix of contestants expected to keep audiences engaged until the finale.
The launch immediately dominated conversations across social media, with viewers already debating contestants’ personalities, relationships and possible winners after the opening night.
Season 11 succeeds the 2025 edition of the show, which was won by Imisi.
Full list of BBNaija Season 11 housemates
Tram – 24-year-old streamer from Lagos State.
Temi Nkem – 21-year-old model raised in London.
Martins – 30-year-old visual storyteller and model from Kogi State.
Abi – 25-year-old chef and model from Osun State.
Chimsom Chuka – 27-year-old pharmacist from Anambra State.
Keivo – 27-year-old web developer from Benue State.
Mercedes – 26-year-old massage therapist and concierge business owner from Delta State.
Kamsi – 24-year-old event planner from Imo State.
Sultex – 24-year-old dancer and choreographer from Lagos State.
Aikou – 25-year-old freelance teacher and web developer from Abuja.
Flora – 30-year-old make-up artist from Delta State.
Bells – 22-year-old undergraduate from Akwa Ibom State.
Gerard – 23-year-old from Lagos State.
Oyin – 22-year-old sales entrepreneur and model from Ogun State.
Sheba – Professional broadcaster.
Araga – 29-year-old fashion model.
Ricky – 33-year-old writer from Rivers State.
Nomy – 26-year-old fashion designer from Anambra State.
Barry – 26-year-old civil engineer and fashion designer from Abuja.
Neche – 25-year-old lawyer from Anambra State.
Yusuf – 25-year-old from Kogi State.
Goddessa – 30-year-old musician from Abia State.
Bluethopia – 22-year-old photographer and model from Adamawa State.
Cassi – 26-year-old forex trader and actor from Abia State.
