BBNaija S9: Who are the housemates?

by: Moridiyat Ariya

Big Brother Nija, formerly Big Brother Nigeria, is the Nigerian version of the American television series Big Brother. It is a reality TV show where housemates are isolated from the outside world for 71 days but are constantly watched by cameras.

They compete for a huge sum of money and other prizes by avoiding eviction. At intervals, viewers vote for their favorite housemate, and those with the least support are evicted.

The reality show has had 8 seasons in the past, with this edition being the 9th.

This season, themed “No Loose Guard”, started on Sunday, July 28, 2024. The organizers have announced a grand prize of N100 million among others. The unveiling took place in Lagos and, as with other editions, was hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu.

The housemates were revealed in pairs, including two sets of twins, making it a first in the show’s history, watched by millions of viewers.

The 14 pairs of 28 housemates are already in the Big Brother house, buzzing with energy as they familiarize themselves with each other — and the environment.

Now, let us get to know the housemates:

CHEKAS (CHIZOBA AND ONYEKA)

Chizoba, 31, is a software developer from Anambra State. Onyeka, 28, is a lawyer and entrepreneur, also from Anambra State. The duo bonded as sisters when Onyeka, the younger sister, was born. As sisters, they intend to support each other and prioritize their mutual goals. They both aim to win the cash prize and fully experience the show.

NELITA (ANITA AND NELLY)

Nelly, 29, is a chef and entertainer from Abia State. Anita, 28, is a specialist practitioner from Imo State. They met at a beauty audition in Owerri, Imo State, and instantly connected. As friends, they intend to seize opportunities in the Big Brother house, showcase their talents, and embrace challenges.

SHATORIA (SHAUN AND VICTORIA)

Shaun, 28, is a model, entrepreneur, and actor from Edo State. Victoria is a travel consultant and commercial model from Imo State. Shaun and Victoria met in Dubai, which led to a strong connection between them. As friends, they want to step out of their comfort zones, embrace personal growth, and connect with different people.

WANNI & HANDI (HANDI AND WANNI)

Wanni and Handi, 27, are twin DJs from Kaduna State. The twin sisters are full of energy, passion, and an unbreakable bond. Their relationship started at birth, resulting in an inseparable bond. They aim to experience the Big Brother house together, entertain viewers with their energy, and compete for the cash prize.

ZINWE (ZION AND CHINWE)

Zion, 26, is a fashion designer and model from Edo State. Chinwe, 30, is a beauty and skincare entrepreneur. They have been dating for six months, having met at a friend’s bachelor party. They intend to seize any life-changing opportunity, embrace the adventure, and compete for the prize.

BETA (TJAY AND BEN)

Ben, 29, is a club influencer from Delta State. Tjay, 33, is a medical doctor from Ogun State. They have been friends for six years and intend to be positive role models for Nigerian youth, gaining fans through their authenticity.

DOUBLEKAY (KASSIA AND KELLYRAE)

Kellyrae, 33, is a professional singer from Delta State. Kassia, 30, is an entrepreneur, also from Delta State. Kellyrae and Kassia got married in February 2024. The couple intends to contribute to creating a good show and showcasing what they have to offer.

STREEZE (TOBY FORCE AND MAYOR FROSH)

Toby, 27, is a content creator and dance artiste from Ondo State. Mayor, 24, is a media director and content creator from Oyo State. They intend to showcase their talent and personality to the world.

TAMI (HANID AND TOYOSI)

Toyosi, 26, is a beautician from Osun State. Damilola, 28, is a nightlife manager, also from Osun State. They met at a TV event in Lagos, which led to an eight-year friendship.

MBADIWE TWINS (OZEE AND OCEE)

Ocee and Ozee are twin brothers, 37, who are lawyers, entertainers, and entrepreneurs from Imo State. Their relationship, rooted in their birth 37 years ago, drives them to challenge themselves, showcase their personalities, entertain, and inspire others.

ACES (TOPHER AND SOOJ)

Topher, 24, is a public relations analyst from Lagos State. Sooj, 23, is a communication specialist from Imo State. They became friends after Sooj interviewed for a job at Topher’s PR firm. They aim to showcase their talents, entertain the audience, and take a break from their usual activities.

FLOURISH (DJ FLO AND RUTHEE)

Ruthee, 32, is an event planner and caterer from Akwa Ibom. DJ Flo, 27, is a DJ from Imo State. They have maintained their friendship for 10 years.

RADICALS (MICHKY AND FAIRME DAVID)

Fairme David, 29, is a professional dancer and content creator from Delta State. Michky, 24, is a gym instructor from Edo State. They met at the gym and intend to share their personalities and talents with the world.

NDI NNE (NNE AND CHINNE)

Chinne, 31, is an entrepreneur from Anambra State. Mary, 22, is also an entrepreneur from Anambra State. They have a close aunt-niece relationship and intend to step out of their comfort zones to fulfill their dreams.

BBN — A look at the past winners

1. Season 1 (2006) – Katung Aduwak

2. Season 2 (2017) – Michael Efe Ejeba

3. Season 3 (2018) – Miracle Igbokwe

4. Season 4 (2019) – Mercy Eke

5. Season 5 (2020) – Olamilekan “Laycon” Agbeleshe

6. Season 6 (2021) – Hazel “Whitemoney” Onou

7. Season 7 (2022) – Josephina “Phyna” Otabor

8. Season 8 (2023) – Ilebaye Odiniya