MultiChoice Nigeria has announced that the 11th season of Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) will premiere on July 26, 2026, with the eventual winner taking home a record-breaking grand prize worth ₦160 million.
The announcement was made during a media briefing on Wednesday, where organisers revealed that the prize package, consisting of ₦100 million in cash and a brand-new SUV, is the largest ever offered in the history of the reality television show.
The launch show will air from 7:00 p.m. on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family. Fans will also be able to follow the 24-hour live broadcast on DStv Channel 198, GOtv Channel 49, as well as via the DStv Stream and GOtv Stream platforms.
Preparations for the new season began with physical auditions held between May 22 and 24 in Lagos, Abuja and Enugu after shortlisted applicants were invited to participate. Auditions were free and open to Nigerians aged 21 and above with valid means of identification.
Speaking on the upcoming edition, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice, Atinuke Babatunde, said Season 11 would raise the bar with fresh twists, bigger rewards and a dynamic mix of contestants.
She noted that BBNaija has continued to redefine entertainment across Africa through authentic storytelling and engaging personalities, adding that the new season promises more excitement from the opening night to the grand finale.
The organisers also unveiled betting company betPawa as the headline sponsor for Season 11, while Guinness returns as the Gold Sponsor and Minimie joins as an Associate Sponsor.
Head of Local Marketing and Corporate Social Responsibility at betPawa, Borah Omary Ndanyungu, described the partnership as an opportunity to reward fans and enhance audience engagement throughout the season.
Since its revival in 2017, Big Brother Naija has evolved into one of Africa’s biggest entertainment platforms, producing several stars, creating employment opportunities within the creative industry and influencing popular culture across the continent.
Popular media personality Ebuka Obi-Uchendu will return as host for the new season, while viewers will be able to vote for their favourite housemates through the MyDStv and MyGOtv self-service apps. Subscribers can also increase their voting benefits by upgrading or renewing their subscriptions for multiple months.
