The Nigerian reality TV show ‘40 and Fabulous’ is set to empower women over 40 to showcase their talents and fulfill their dreams in the entertainment industry.
At a press conference in Abuja, the chief executive officer of Mother of Models International and creator of the 40andFabulousNaija reality TV show, Ambassador Jolly Nnenna Abani, described the show as more than entertainment, noting that it was designed to educate, heal, and reposition and empower women aged 40 and above in society.
“40andFabulousNaija is not just a show, it is a movement. It is therapy, empowerment, and a second chance for women who need healing to become whole again,” she said.
The reality TV show, which operates as a non-governmental organisation, provides training, empowerment, and opportunities for women, children, and older people across communities.
According to Abani, the project seeks to challenge stereotypes that often sideline women over 40, including single mothers, divorcees, widows, and survivors of abuse.
She lamented the difficulties the programme has faced in securing airtime on major platforms despite significant investment in its first two seasons.
“We are not asking for free airtime. What we are asking for is a fair commercial arrangement, a purchase of airtime so our content can reach the audience it deserves,” she said.
Season 3 of the show will feature both women and men, with women living in the house while men join on weekends to network, party, and showcase their businesses. Auditions are currently ongoing, with interested participants asked to text 40 to 205 for registration details.
Highlighting the show’s broader purpose, she questioned why family-oriented programmes that promote positive values are sidelined while “destructive” content dominates screens.
“Strong women build strong nations. When you look at the kind of content being pushed into our society today, you will see how damaging some of it is. But we bring something different — content that can heal families and make society better,” she said.
Abani expressed optimism that Season 3 would be a turning point for the show. “Anticipate a season filled with hope, progress, and greatness,” she told journalists.
