The golden days of Nigerian TV was packed with reality shows that could easily rival anything Love Island has ever served. I miss eagerly waiting for the next episode of Gulder Ultimate Search and swooning over Chidi Mokeme or being stressed out when they randomly replaced him with Bob Manuel Udokwu.
From Maltina Dance All to MTN Project Fame, here are some Nigerian Reality TV shows the TV Gods should consider reviving.
1. Gulder Ultimate Search
Year it aired: 2004
When it ended: 2016 (original run), revival in 2021
Type: Survival reality show
This was one of the most anticipated shows on Nigerian TV. It followed a survival format where contestants faced tough physical and mental tasks while navigating harsh terrain in search of a hidden treasure. Its biggest draw was the genuine survival element that set it apart from other reality shows. It tried to make a comeback in 2021 but unfortunately flopped.
2. MTN Project Fame
Year it aired: 2008
When it ended: 2016
Type: Music reality show
MTN Project Fame was a music academy style music competition that focused on training young singers and showing their growth week after week through live performances. It stood out because viewers could actually watch contestants improve rather than just compete for votes. The show launched in 2008 and ran for several seasons before going off air.
3. Maltina Dance All
Year it aired: 2006
When it ended: 2016
Type: Dancing reality show
Nigeria’s first family dance show, Maltina Dance All, brought families together to learn and perform high-energy dance routines, from hip-hop to salsa to contemporary African dance, all while competing for judges’ scores and public votes. Many viewers connected with it because the family angle made the competition feel warmer and relatable.
4. Who wants to be a millionaire?
Year it aired: 2004
When it ended: 2017
Type: Game reality show
Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Nigeria had viewers on the edge of their seats as contestants answered increasingly tricky questions for huge cash prize. Elements like 50:50 and Phone a Friend, added even more thrill to the show. Hosted by Frank Edoho, it became an instant viewer favorite, turning ordinary Nigerians into millionaires and making quiz night a must-watch TV event.
ALSO READ: 5 Insane Reality Shows We Need Nigerian Versions Of
5. Ultimate Love
Year it aired: 2020
When it ended: 2020
Type: Dating reality show
This was Nigeria’s first attempt at an iteration of Love Island. The show had 16 singles live together in a “Love Pad” under 24-hour surveillance, pairing up and completing tasks to test their compatibility. They were guided by the resident counsellor “Aunty,” as they navigate challenges while viewers vote to keep their favorite couples in the game.
6. Knorr Taste Quest
Year it aired: 2013
When it ended: 2018
Type: Cooking reality show
Knorr Taste Quest was a Nigerian cooking‑reality show sponsored by Unilever (Knorr), which began in 2013. Contestants go through auditions, and the top ones (usually 12) compete in weekly culinary challenges judged by expert chefs.The tasks tested their creativity, cooking skill, and use of ingredients, including mandatory items in certain challenges.
7. Nigeria Got Talent
Year it aired: 2008
When it ended: 2016
Type: Music reality show
Nigeria’s Got Talent is the Nigerian version of the global “Got Talent” franchise, first airing in 2008. The show featured a wide range of performers — singers, dancers, magicians, comedians — with no age limit. Contestants audition across multiple cities, and their acts are judged by a panel of judges. Viewers vote to decide which talents move forward, and winners get significant cash prizes.
8. Amstel Malta Box Office
Year it aired: 2005
When it ended: 2009
Type: Acting reality show
Amstel Malta Box Office (AMBO) was a Nollywood‑focused reality show launched in 2005. The show brought together aspiring actors who went through training and acting challenges under real “studio‑house” conditions. Winners not only got cash and a car, but also a lead role in a Nollywood movie. For example, Ivie Okujaye won AMBO 5 and starred in the brand‑funded film Alero’s Symphony.
