Big Brother Naija: A Chronicle of Winners

Since its inception in 2006, Big Brother Naija has captivated audiences across Nigeria and beyond, transforming ordinary individuals into household names overnight. As we look back at the past winners, we celebrate their unique journeys, the challenges they overcame, and the impact they’ve made in their respective fields.

1. Katung Aduwak (Season 1 – 2006)
Katung Aduwak, the first-ever winner of Big Brother Nigeria, set the stage for what would become a cultural phenomenon. Hailing from Zonkwa, Kaduna State, Aduwak’s victory in the inaugural season paved the way for future contestants. Today, he is a director at Campfire Media and has made his mark in the media industry.

2. Michael Efe Ejeba (Season 2 – 2017)
Efe Ejeba, popularly known as Efe, emerged victorious in the second season of Big Brother Naija, themed “See Gobe.” His victory came 11 years after the first season, and he has since become an ambassador for entertainment and creative industries in Plateau State.

3. Miracle Ikechukwu Igbokwe (Season 3 – 2018)
Miracle Igbokwe, a qualified pilot from Imo State, won the hearts of viewers in the third season, themed “Double Wahala.” His victory led to his appointment as the Education Ambassador for his native Imo State.

4. Mercy Eke (Season 4 – 2019)
Mercy Eke made history as the first woman to win Big Brother Naija in the fourth season, themed “Pepper Dem.” Her victory marked a significant milestone for female contestants, and she has since become an entrepreneur and a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.

5. Olamilekan Agbeleshe (Laycon) (Season 5 – 2020)
Laycon, the winner of the fifth season, themed “Lockdown,” quickly amassed a significant following due to his relatable personality. He has since become the youth ambassador of Ogun State and won the Artist of the Year Award at the 2020 Naija Traffic Awards.

6. Hazel Oyeye Onou (Whitemoney) (Season 6 – 2021)
Whitemoney, the winner of the sixth season, themed “Shine Ya Eye,” proved that he could “collect all the money.” His victory solidified his position as a fan favorite and a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.

7. Phyna (Season 7 – 2022)
Phyna, the winner of the seventh season, themed “Level Up,” emerged as a fan favorite and a symbol of perseverance. Her victory marked a significant milestone for contestants from diverse backgrounds.

8. Ilebaye (Season 8 – 2023)
Ilebaye, the winner of the eighth season, themed “All Stars,” brought together former winners and contestants for a thrilling competition. Her victory solidified her position as a fan favorite and a symbol of resilience.

As we celebrate the past winners of Big Brother Naija, we recognize their unique journeys and the impact they’ve made in their respective fields. From Katung Aduwak’s pioneering victory to Ilebaye’s recent triumph, each winner has left an indelible mark on the Big Brother Naija house and the hearts of viewers across Nigeria and beyond.