BBNaija Season 11 Begins: Meet the 24 Housemates Competing for Record ₦160 Million Grand Prize

The race for the biggest prize in Big Brother Naija Season 11 is officially underway after the reality show returned on Sunday night with 24 new housemates ready to battle for a record ₦160 million reward over the next 72 days.

Hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, this year’s edition is themed “Everything Is For The Taking”, also known as “Show Ya Sef.” Organisers have promised a season packed with fresh twists, a redesigned house and higher stakes as contestants from different backgrounds compete for the coveted title. The winner will receive ₦100 million in cash alongside an SUV, making it the largest prize package in the show’s history.

The premiere introduced viewers to a diverse cast that includes entrepreneurs, lawyers, broadcasters, engineers, students, creatives and business owners. Among the first to enter the house was Tram, a 24-year-old streamer from Lagos, who declared that he was focused solely on winning the competition rather than finding love. He was followed by Temi Nkem, a 21-year-old model raised in London, who described herself as independent and determined.

One of the biggest talking points of the launch came from Abi, a 25-year-old chef and model from Osun State, whose revelation that she is married quickly sparked conversations across social media. Another contestant drawing attention was Martins, a 30-year-old visual storyteller from Kogi State, who openly admitted that he is already in a relationship despite joining the reality show.

The remaining housemates include 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 hinted at building alliances and exploring romantic connections, others insisted their only objective is to win the grand prize.

Away from the contestants, viewers were also introduced to a completely redesigned BBNaija house featuring an eye-catching “upside-down” concept with bold colours and luxury interiors. According to MultiChoice, the house took months to conceptualise and build before being transformed into a fully equipped television production facility.

The production setup includes 52 robotic PTZ cameras, seven handheld cameras, 59 microphones, 36 antenna blades and 19 speakers, ensuring continuous coverage of activities throughout the season. MultiChoice also revealed that the annual production creates employment for more than 1,000 Nigerians, including engineers, electricians, carpenters, decorators, camera operators, caterers and technical support staff.

Executive Head of Content and Channels for West Africa, Atinuke Babatunde, said Season 11 builds on the show’s tradition of authentic storytelling while introducing new personalities, bigger rewards and unpredictable twists designed to keep audiences entertained until the finale. The season succeeds the 2025 edition, which was won by Imisi.