Meet 10 ex-BBNaija winners as season 11 begins

As Big Brother Naija returns for its 11th season, the reality television show has once again opened the door to a new generation of housemates hoping to emerge as Nigeria’s next winner.

Season 11 premiered on Sunday, July 26, 2026, and PUNCH Online had earlier reported the profile and profession of all the contestants.

The new season comes nearly two decades after Katung Aduwak became the first winner of the original Big Brother Nigeria in 2006.

Since then, the franchise has produced a succession of winners whose victories have made them household names and, in several cases, launched careers in entertainment, business and others

From Katung’s historic triumph to Imisi Ayanwale’s victory in Season 10, each edition has produced its own defining personality and memorable story.

As the latest batch of housemates begins its journey in the house, here is a look at all the previous winners of the show, from the first season in 2006 to the most recent champion before the commencement of Season 11.

Full list of BBNaija winners from 2006 to 2025

1. Katung Aduwak — Season 1 (2006)

Katung Aduwak made history as the first winner of the reality show, then known as Big Brother Nigeria.

He defeated Francisca Owumi in the final.

2. Efe Ejeba — Season 2, See Gobe (2017)

Michael Efe Ejeba won the show’s return season in 2017, defeating Bisola Aiyeola.

His catchphrase, “Based on logistics,” became strongly associated with his campaign.

3. Miracle Igbokwe — Season 3, Double Wahala (2018)

Pilot and model Miracle Igbokwe won the third season, with Cynthia “Cee-C” Nwadiora finishing as runner-up.

4. Mercy Eke — Season 4, Pepper Dem (2019)

Mercy Eke became the first female winner of the modern BBNaija era when she won the Pepper Dem season in 2019. Mike Edwards was the runner-up.

5. Laycon — Season 5, Lockdown (2020)

Olamilekan “Laycon Agbeleshe won the Lockdown season.

His victory remains one of the most dominant in the show’s history, with 60 per cent of the final votes, according to reports based on the official finale results.

6. Whitemoney — Season 6, Shine Ya Eye (2021)

Hazel Oyeye Onou, popularly known as whitemoney won the sixth season, defeating Liquorose in the final.

7. Phyna — Season 7, Level Up (2022)

Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna emerged as the winner of the Level Up season, with Bryann finishing as runner-up.

8. Ilebaye — Season 8, All Stars (2023)

Ilebaye Odiniya won the All Stars edition, defeating former winner Mercy Eke in the final.

9. Kellyrae — Season 9, No Loose Guard (2024)

Kingsley Kellyrae Sule won the No Loose Guard season, with Wanni Danbaki finishing as runner-up.

10. Imisi — Season 10, 10/10 (2025)

Opeyemi Imisi Ayanwale became the 10th BBNaija winner after emerging victorious in the 10/10 season.

Precious “Dede” Ashiogwu finished as runner-up.