The tenth season of Big Brother Naija, tagged “10 Over 10,” will go down as one of the most compelling and culture-shaping editions in the history of Nigerian television. Premiering on June 25, 2025, with 29 housemates, the season unfolded with unprecedented emotion, cultural conversations, and powerful storytelling that pushed the boundaries of reality TV.
After more than three months of intense competition, Imisi Ayanwale, a 23-year-old fashion designer from Oyo State, emerged the winner on October 3, 2025, walking away with a record ₦150 million grand prize in cash and sponsored gifts. But the real triumph of BBNaija Season 10 went far beyond the cameras, parties, and confessions; it became a mirror of modern Nigerian society, revealing its values, contradictions, and yearnings.
Imisi’s Unlikely Rise to Stardom
Imisi, born Opeyemi Ayanwale, entered the BBNaija house as a quiet fashion designer with a modest following. By the finale, she had become a national sensation, loved for her calm strength, emotional intelligence, and compassion. Unlike contestants who thrive on controversy, Imisi chose authenticity and empathy. Her fan base, “Ijoba 606,” mobilized millions online, demonstrating how social movements now thrive in the entertainment space.
Inside the house, she was often the voice of reason, mediating conflicts and supporting others through personal struggles. Her story symbolized the show’s deeper message: that integrity and emotional balance can outshine theatrics.
A Season of Firsts and Bold Conversations
The “10 Over 10” edition broke several records. It featured the largest number of housemates in BBNaija history and introduced a ₦150 million prize pool, cementing the show’s place as Africa’s biggest reality TV franchise.
Yet, what truly set the season apart was its fearless exploration of social issues. For the first time, Big Brother Naija became a platform for open dialogue on mental health, gender identity, polyamory, and emotional trauma—topics rarely addressed on mainstream Nigerian television.
Faith, a standout contestant, openly identified as polyamorous, challenging societal norms on love and relationships. His interactions with Joanna ignited nationwide debates about fidelity and freedom. Similarly, Jason Jae’s emotional struggle between loyalty to his partner outside and his bond with Sultana became a highlight of the season.
Moments like Bright Morgan and Mide’s debate on open relationships revealed the show’s intellectual depth, while Emy’s emotional revelation about surviving sexual assault transformed a wager task into a heartfelt national conversation on trauma and resilience.
Drama, Twists, and Genuine Emotion
Big Brother Naija Season 10 delivered high-stakes entertainment. From unexpected evictions to explosive fights, the drama never waned. The “Red Telephone Prank,” which led to a fake eviction, dominated online discussions for days.
But beneath the chaos were raw, human moments. Housemates like Femi, who struggled with a throat condition that affected his speech, found comfort and solidarity from fellow contestants. It was a moment that captured the essence of the season, compassion over competition.
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Meanwhile, personalities like Zita and Kuture brought balance through humor and mischief. Zita evolved from a quiet presence into a strategic mastermind, while Kuture’s quick wit made him a fan favorite.
Love, Lessons, and the Game of Hearts
Every BBNaija season thrives on romance, and “10 Over 10” was no exception. From Kayikunmi and Isabella’s short-lived romance to the tangled triangle of Dede, Kola, and Doris, the season was full of heartbreak and passion.
However, the emotional rollercoaster went beyond gossip. Contestants learned painful but valuable lessons about authenticity, loyalty, and fame. Imisi’s eventual win stood as proof that truth and quiet strength can still win hearts in an age of spectacle.
The Cultural Impact of BBNaija 10/10
Since its debut in 2006, Big Brother Naija has evolved into a national institution that mirrors youth culture; its language, fashion, and moral debates. The 2025 season continued that tradition, sparking discussions that reached universities, religious circles, and online forums.
The show’s open conversations on identity, trauma, and emotional wellness resonated deeply with millions of Nigerians. It proved that reality television, when handled with authenticity, can provoke thought as much as it entertains.
A Perfect 10 in Every Sense
By the time Big Brother Naija Season 10 concluded, it had lived up to its name; ten times the drama, emotion, and creativity. It balanced competition with compassion and spectacle with sincerity.
In crowning Imisi Ayanwale, the show reaffirmed its core message: that in a world driven by image and noise, authenticity remains the ultimate strength.
As the curtains closed on October 3, 2025, “10 Over 10” was more than television, it was a generational statement about love, resilience, and the human need to be seen and understood.
And at the center of it all stood Imisi Ayanwale, the young designer who stitched her name into Nigerian pop culture, one authentic moment at a time.
