As anticipation builds for the 10th season of the popular reality TV show Big Brother Naija, former housemate Tolanibaj has shared a set of practical and honest tips for those hoping to enter the house this year.
In a recent video message posted on her TikTok page, the ex-BBNaija star didn’t hold back. She gave aspiring contestants a reality check, warning them to stay grounded, be authentic, and plan. Her message serves as both encouragement and a wake-up call.
“Be yourself, but don’t be boring”
Tolanibaj’s first piece of advice is simple: be real.
“Don’t go in there and be boring,” she warned. “Nigerians won’t like it, and it won’t work in your favour.”
She encouraged housemates to show their true personalities, rather than trying to act or pretend. Viewers, she noted, can easily tell when someone is not being genuine.
Dress to impress, every day counts
Tolanibaj emphasised that while the house may feel like just another home, it’s actually a stage. She urged contestants to look good every day.
“Dress up daily. It might seem silly since you’re just inside a house, but remember, it’s still a show,” she explained. “This is your chance to attract fashion brands.”
She added that housemates should take control of their appearance. Even though the organisers provide outfits for Saturday night parties, she advised bringing personal clothes in case the provided ones don’t suit their style.
“Girls, do your makeup every day. Guys, dress well too. Always be camera-ready.”
“Housemates are not automatically your friends”
One of Tolanibaj’s strongest warnings was about relationships inside the house. She reminded hopefuls that fellow contestants are not necessarily their friends.
“Just because you’re living with people for a few months doesn’t mean they are your friends. They’re your teammates, your colleagues, not family,” she said firmly.
She explained that while some housemates do form genuine friendships, most don’t last beyond the show. Once the cameras stop rolling, many contestants realise that the bonds they thought were real were just temporary.
“If you’re lucky to make a true friend in the house, that’s great. But don’t be shocked if things change outside. Go back to the real people who know and support you.”
Plan for life after the show
Tolanibaj didn’t sugarcoat what comes after BBNaija. She stressed the importance of planning for the future before stepping into the house.
“Have a plan for after the show. The organisers won’t check on you once it ends. You’re on your own,” she said bluntly.
She also advised housemates not to rely too heavily on prize money. According to her, even if a contestant wins millions, the money often comes in parts, not all at once.
“If you win ₦10, ₦20 million, it won’t drop in your account in one day. You may get ₦200k or ₦500k every week. So, plan and don’t depend on that money alone.”
“The real game begins after eviction”
Finally, Tolanibaj reminded aspirants that the real journey starts once they leave the house, whether as winners or evictees.
“If you win, that’s amazing. But if not, it’s not the end,” she said. “What matters is what you do after the show.”
She urged contestants to stay focused, build their brand, and use the exposure to create a solid future.
Reality check before the reality show
Tolanibaj’s message comes as a timely reminder that Big Brother Naija is more than just a show, it’s a career launchpad. However, success requires more than just screen time. Authenticity, strategy, appearance, and post-show planning all play a major role.
As BBNaija Season 10 draws near, aspiring housemates would do well to take her words to heart. In a show where millions are watching, how you play the game and what you do after makes all the difference.
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