By Fasuyi Tolulope Samuel
A young Nigerian lady has taken to social media to share her surprising and disappointing experience at the 2025 Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) auditions.
In a video now making rounds online, she claimed that all hopefuls were asked to pay a ₦1,600 registration fee upon arrival—something she described as unnecessary and exploitative.
According to her, the audition venue was already packed when she arrived, with hundreds of enthusiastic Nigerians hoping to be selected for the next season of Africa’s most-watched reality TV show.
However, she felt the process lacked transparency and fairness.“They asked us to come as our real selves,” she said, “but it felt like only people dressed in revealing clothes were getting attention. If they already know the type of people they want, why waste everyone’s time?”
She alleged that the BBNaija organizers may have already picked their housemates before the open audition, suggesting that the physical screening was only a formality.
“I’m not bitter or angry,” she continued, “I knew it was a 50/50 chance. But if you’re planning to audition for BBNaija in the future, just be aware. ₦1,600 from each person adds up, especially if there are thousands auditioning. It just didn’t feel right.”
The video has sparked a mix of reactions online, with many expressing shock over the alleged payment and questioning the fairness of the process.
Big Brother Naija is Nigeria’s biggest reality TV show and a spin-off of the global Big Brother franchise. First airing in 2006, it features housemates from across the country living together under constant surveillance, with weekly evictions and a grand prize awarded to the last person standing.
The show has produced stars in entertainment, fashion, and business, making it a highly coveted platform for young Nigerians.
As of now, the organizers of BBNaija have not responded to the lady’s allegations or the reported registration fee.
