MultiChoice Nigeria has officially announced the return of Big Brother Naija for its ninth season, set to premiere on July 28, 2024.
The much-anticipated reality TV show will feature housemates entering the house in pairs, with the grand prize set at N100 million, a reduction from the previous N120 million. Additionally, the winner will receive a brand-new SUV.
Details and Duration
Season 9 of Big Brother Naija will be broadcast on MultiChoice’s DStv for 71 days, from July 28 to October 6. The show will debut across all of MultiChoice’s Africa Magic channels on DStv, following auditions where contestants had to apply in pairs.
Expectations and Highlights
Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels at MultiChoice provided an overview of the upcoming season during the press conference held in Lagos, on July 16, 2024. She emphasized that this season promises to be exciting and drama-filled, with new elements to keep viewers engaged.
“The ninth season of the Big Brother Naija show will be going beyond drama, bringing in different blends of unique entertainment,” Tejumola stated.
She revealed that housemates will face the challenge of participating in pairs for house tasks and hinted at intriguing twists and dynamics to be revealed during the premiere.
Tejumola also mentioned that the Big Brother Naija Buzz, hosted by Toke Makinwa, will offer fans behind-the-scenes insights. She highlighted that the show will not feature the traditional head of the house challenge and will include new twists introduced by Big Brother.
Regular features like the pool party and Saturday night party will continue, with the show airing 24 hours a day.
Engagement and Viewer Participation
Tope Oshunkeye, Head of Marketing at MultiChoice, introduced some interactive elements for viewers.
The “Lock-in” game will allow viewers to predict winners of the immunity challenge, with correct predictions earning ?1 million each.
Screen Time Distribution
John Ugbe, CEO of MultiChoice Nigeria, addressed concerns regarding the distribution of screen time among housemates, a topic of frequent criticism from past participants and fans. Ugbe explained that equal screen time is not feasible in an entertainment setting, comparing it to a movie where equal time for every actor is impractical.
He emphasized that the cameras will focus on activity rather than maintaining equality in screen time, encouraging housemates to be authentically themselves to stand out.
Hosts and Schedule
Ebuka Obi-Uchendu will return as the host of the main show, while Toke Makinwa will continue to host the weekly recap show on Showmax, Big Brother Naija Buzz.
The show promises a blend of entertainment, emotion, and drama, keeping viewers hooked throughout its run from July 28 to October 6, 2024.
Stay tuned for the premiere on July 28 to witness the start of an exciting new season of Big Brother Naija, packed with surprises and unique entertainment.