In a few days from now, precisely Sunday, July 28, Nigeria’s biggest reality TV show, Big Brother Naija (BBNaija), will commence its ninth season with unprecedented twists and turns.
For 71 days, paired housemates are expected to entertain Nigerians and Africa at large via the TV screens.
Hereunder are five twists and turns to expect in the BBNaija Season 9 reality TV show:
1. Season 9’s Theme Is Centred Around Duos:
It was recently disclosed at the BBNaija media briefing that the criteria for selecting contestants for the season was based on the mindset ‘better as pairs.’
“What Biggie has asked for this year is for audition in pairs, which is the first time this is happening. This year, we asked for people to come with their friends, besties, family members, wives, husbands, and partners, to enter the show together as a pair. That was the selection criteria,” said Dr. Busola Tejumola, the Executive Head, Content & Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice.
2. The Grand Prize is worth N100m:
Although the 2024 season’s theme is yet to be revealed, Dr. Tejumola revealed that the prize to be won this year is valued at N100 million, which includes a cash prize and an SUV. Though there are a number of sponsors already on board for the 9th season, it is not yet clear if there would be any additional sponsored prizes due to recent controversies about a previous season.
3. Head of House (HoH) Challenge will see a Major Twist:
Unlike in the previous seasons, the Head of House challenge will see a major twist with new activities set for primetime. Dr. Tejumola said, “Right after the launch show on Sunday, a new activity will start. This season has high stakes. It’s going to move fast, and it will unravel right from Sunday night when we launch the show.
“Immediately after we meet the housemates, the main business starts as the Custodian Challenge will start at 9 pm on Sunday. Now restyled as the HoH Ballot, the process to select the first HoH will hold at 10am on Monday, July 29, 2024. This will be followed by the Custodian Lock-In, then the Immunity Challenge and nominations.”
The twists and turns coming this season are the organisers’ way of upping the game’s innovative format and it promises to deliver fresh dynamics and unforgettable entertainment.
4. Fave Lock-In is Making a Comeback:
Contestants do not only get to win, but fans can also participate with the Fave Lock-In. With the Fave Lock-In, viewers can make their predictions of the pairs they think will win the Immunity Challenge and some lucky fans will get rewarded with N1million weekly.
5. Guinness is the 9th Season’s Gold Sponsor:
Guinness is returning as a sponsor of Big Brother Naija reality TV show, but this time, as a gold sponsor. However, there are other brands on the long sponsorship list.
The season premiere is set for Sunday, July 28, 2024, across all Africa Magic channels, after which viewers can follow all the drama and excitement on DStv Channel 198 and GOtv Channel 49. Readers can also join the conversation using the hashtag #BBNaijaS9 on social media handles.