Back in the day, TV was a big source of entertainment, especially because there were so many shows and programmes to choose from. These shows, most times, brought the whole family together in the living room. One of such programmes is Nigerian Idol. This music competition wasn’t just a show; it was a spark that ignited dreams in many Nigerians.
The first season of the show aired in October 2010, with the theme, “Live Your Dream, Accept No Limitation.” It produced the first ever Nigerian Idol, Yeka Onka and has gone on to make other superstars like Mercy Chinwo, Moses Obi Adigwe, Evelle, K-Peace, Kingdom Kroseide and Victory Gbaka.
Over the past 8 seasons, Nigerian Idol has featured different Afrobeats icons as judges. The judges, with their personalities and aura, are major sources of inspiration to the talents and delight to the audiences.
Season one had a trio of Yinka Davies, Audu Maikori and Jeffrey Daniel. Season two saw Audu Maikori replaced with Charly Boy. Femi Kuti replaced Charly Boy in season 3. Season four saw Darey Art Alade, Nneka, and Dede Mabiaku as judges. In season five, Yinka Davies returned as a judge to replace Nneka. In season six, Obi Asika, Seyi Shay and DJ Sose were selected to be the judges with IK Osakioduwa serving as host. In seasons 7 and 8, Simi, D’banj, and Obi Asika were seated as judges.
Season 9 is set to premiere on the 21st of April with the judges being a mix of familiar and new faces. Omawumi who was a guest judge in season 7, Ric Hassani who came in for a guest artiste performance in season 8 and veteran artiste 9ice, will be leading the search for the next Nigerian Idol. It could not have been a better selection, as they are all established artistes with hit songs and industry recognition.
This season promises to be a daring one as hinted by the theme: “Dare To Dream”. The contestants certainly have to be competitive, headstrong and extremely talented to actualise a dream of becoming the next Nigerian Idol.
The show often kicks off with the auditions which is usually a delight, as many contestants try to convince the judges that they deserve a coveted spot on the show. However, only 11 contestants will make the cut for the live show.
The show will end with one winner, in a classic winner-takes-all-all fashion, but not without some heartwarming performances, surprise guest appearances, and unique mentoring moments, which all contribute to the love and followership it gets from the audience.
Nigerian Idol will air on DStv and GOtv. To catch all the thrilling moments from this season, stay connected by dialling *288# to recharge, reconnect, or upgrade your subscription.
