As the Nigerian Idol reality show clocks a decade, DANIEL ANAZIA, takes a look at its impact in the country’s entertainment sector.
It’s not gain saying, Nigerian Idol, the country’s premier music reality show and a version of the Idol series franchise, has been a launching pad for talented young singers, providing a platform for them to showcase their skills and compete for the coveted title.
The music reality show is the second Idol franchise for Nigeria as it was already part of Idols West Africa, which was also shot and produced in Stockholm, Sweden. Its first season was in 2010, during the 50th Independence anniversary of Nigeria with the tagline “Live Your Dream, Accept No Limitation.”
Since its inception in October 2010, the show has discovered, nurtured and launched the careers of numerous exceptional musical talents in the country, providing a platform for them to showcase their skills and shine on national and international stages. Many past contestants have gone on to achieve significant success in the music industry, releasing hit songs, collaborating with top artistes, and even winning prestigious awards.
By providing a platform for young singers to showcase their talents, the music reality show has helped to identify and promote new talents, driving innovation and creativity in the music industry.
Nigerian Idol has not only been a launching pad for musical careers but also a source of entertainment for millions of viewers. The show’s unique blend of talent, competition, and drama has captivated audiences, making it one of the most popular music reality shows in Nigeria.
According to the Chief Executive Officer, West Africa, MultiChoice, John Ugbe, “Nigerian Idol has become a powerful platform for investing in the Nigerian entertainment industry, and has grown to become a vehicle for aspiring exceptional singers who can make a mark.”
“The industry is projected to reach $14.82 billion by 2025, and we need to be deliberate about its trajectory and how young Nigerians will contribute to that future. Nigeria is rich with creative ingenuity and music talent that can shape the world, and we are proud to play a role in actualising this dream for thousands across the country. We are interested in doing even more,” he added.
A Legacy of Talents
As the show celebrates its 10th season, it’s a fitting moment to reflect on its impact on the Nigerian music industry and the talented individuals who have emerged from the competition. Its impact extends beyond the individual contestants, as it has also contributed to the growth and development of the Nigerian music industry as a whole.
On March 27, 2011, 26-year-old Onyekachi Elizabeth Gilbert Onwuka known by the stage name Yeka Onka from Ohafia, Abia State was announced the winner of maiden edition over fellow competitor Naomi Oyintare Mac Ebiama better known as Naomi Mac. She was awarded a cash-prize in the sum of N7.5 million, a recording contract with Sony, a car and an all-expense-paid trip to South Africa.
For the creation of the winning song, the two finalists collaborated with rapper, songwriter and award-winning producer Jesse Garba Abaga, known professionally as Jesse Jagz. The judges for the Season 1 include singer, dancer, lyricist, vocalist, Yinka Davies.
Looking to the Future
As the show celebrates its 10th anniversary, the organisers and fans alike are excited to see what the future holds, reflecting on the journey, celebrating the triumphs, challenges, and unforgettable moments that have made it an integral part of the Nigerian music landscape.
The judges —Omawumi, Ric Hassani and singer and songwriter, Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk better known as Iyanya— alongside the host, IK Osakioduwa, are putting their knowledge to the test in a hilarious trivia showdown!
