By Prosper Mene
As anticipation builds for the 10th season of Big Brother Naija (BBNaija), former housemate Tolani Shobajo, popularly known as Tolanibaj, has dished out a lifeline of advice to aspiring contestants. The reality TV star and DJ, who rose to fame during the 2020 Lockdown edition, shared a video on her TikTok page, delivering five key survival tips for those vying for a spot in the iconic Big Brother house.
Drawing from her experience in Season 5 and the All-Stars edition, Tolanibaj emphasized the importance of clarity and confidence for contestants entering the house. “Know who you are and what you bring to the table,” she urged, encouraging aspirants to showcase their unique personalities to stand out in the competitive environment.
Her second tip focused on appearance, advising housemates to always look their best. “Your style can attract fashion endorsement deals,” Tolanibaj noted, highlighting how a polished image could open doors to post-show opportunities.
In her third and perhaps most candid point, Tolanibaj cautioned against mistaking housemates for friends. “Your housemates are not your real friends; they are teammates and colleagues,” she stressed. Reflecting on her own journey, she advised contestants to stay grounded and return to their true friends and family after the show, as relationships formed in the house may not last.
Her fourth tip stressed the need for a solid plan for life after BBNaija. Tolanibaj warned that the spotlight fades quickly and urged contestants to prepare for the future, noting that prize money payouts are gradual and should not be relied upon for reckless decisions. “The real challenge begins after eviction or when the show ends,” she said.
Finally, Tolanibaj encouraged aspiring housemates to approach relationships in the house with caution, reminding them to stay strategic and focused on their goals.
Her advice is timely as hundreds of hopefuls prepare for auditions, with the promise of a ₦100 million prize and other rewards like cars and endorsement deals up for grabs.
While we await BBNaija Season 10, Tolanibaj’s words serve as a timely reminder for contestants to stay authentic, strategic, and prepared for the whirlwind of fame that awaits.
