Nigerian South African-based technology entrepreneur and the Executive Producer of the Big Brain Naija reality television show, Charles Awuzie, has stated the TV show will trigger a revolution in the creative and entertainment sectors of Nigeria.

Awuzie, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gemsbok Group and convener of the Evolve X Conference, recently made this known during the unveiling of the Big Brain Naija show in Tinapa, Calabar.

He stated that the show aims to redeem the Nigerian youths by showcasing and celebrating their creativity through intellectual and informative entertainment that parents will be happy to watch with their children, and well-meaning Nigerians and businesses will be happy to partner with.

“A society that celebrates big brains will have more big brains that will create big solutions, and that is what we need in the Nigeria of today,” he said.

He further said that Big Brain Naija is an innovative show every Nigerian youth will desire to associate with, adding, “This is an idea that burns in me like fire shut in my bones.”
While commenting on sponsorship and partnership for the reality TV show, he said more organisations and governments are stepping forward to support the project.

Awuzie however said that they are intentionally staying away from the other brand, adding, “We are not a competition to anyone. Big Brain Naija is an alternative to the status quo.”

He seized the opportunity to thank Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State who has offered automatic employment to the runner-ups of the show.

Senator Izunaso, representing Imo West Federal Constituency and chairman of the Board of Directors of the Big Brain Naija project, described the project as a groundbreaking innovative initiative whose goal is to create an environment where brilliance thrives.

The senator added that the reality show is a platform to aspire, challenge, nurture and celebrate the immense intellectual potential within the Nigerian youth.

“It will spotlight young minds ─ who possess the drive to excel ─ not just in academics, but also in creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” the senator said.

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Big Brain Naija project, Ossai Ilome, noted that the TV show seeks to unveil Africa’s next celebrity geniuses.

Ilome added that the mission and vision of the project is to empower “Nigeria’s brightest minds to transform groundbreaking ideas into global brands and position Nigeria as a global hub for innovation and talent.”

Representative of Zenith Bank, Mr Chibuzor Onwyzuruike, stated that when they received the memo for sponsorship of the Big Brain Naija show, they saw a shift from the status quo and will be funding part of the show.

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ekom ─ who represented the Cross River governor, Senator Bassey Out ─ commended the Big Brain Naija project team and pledged legislative support to ensure the success of the project.

Mrs Edidiong Amos, GIS consultant and CEO of Cizoti Nigeria, in her markers, stated that Big Brain Naija is “packaged to celebrate the talent and creativity of our young people.”
The Big Brain reality TV show will be open to 36 Nigerian contestants, aged 18-55 years, drawn from across the country.

The show will feature 36 episodes including comedy and roasters, infotainment, games, talent shows, pitch sessions, a food show, a genius day, and a one-day president.

According to the organisers, Big Brain Naija will be a pre-recorded show aired on satellite and online video-streaming platforms.

The organisers added that they will develop web and mobile applications to grant viewers access to vote and comment on the various episodes of the show.