New Wave of Nigerian TV

Long gone are the days when television in Nigeria was all about News, Soap Opera, News, and more News. A new wave of TV program has been born. Reality TV is becoming a trend in Nigeria, and young Nigerians are taking every advantage of this opportunity. The Real Estate undergraduate of University of Lagos who emerged the winner of the 4th Guider’s Ultimate Search, set in Jos, pocketed a sum of N5million and the key to an SUV. The contestant in second place was rewarded with N2million while the contestant in 3rd place received N1million for her effort and another N1million for being the first female in the top three. The show is basically a test of endurance. The contestants are put through rigorous and life-endangering tasks to test their endurance level and, as with many reality shows, a cut (an eviction) is made at the end of each phase. They, however, say the contestants are searching for treasures. The host for the just-concluded season is veteran actor Bob Manuel-Udokwu. Gulder Ultimate Search is, of course, sponsored by Gulder Lager. The first season was aired in 2004 and was set in Lagos as the Snake Island. The next year’s was set in Cross River’s Obudu Ranch Resort. Next, the show went to the Big Heart of the Nation, Edo State, setting in NIFOR.

One of the contestants of this season, Anthony Mudiaga, died while shooting. May his soul rest in peace, and may the Lord comfort his friends and family.