Former Big Brother Naija housemate and reality television star Tacha Akide has urged the organisers of the popular Nigerian reality show to consider taking a temporary break and developing new ideas before returning to the screen.

The media personality made the suggestion during an appearance on Arise 360 on Arise News, where she discussed the changing entertainment industry and the growing influence of social media. According to Tacha, the programme needs to rethink its approach to remain attractive to audiences whose viewing habits have evolved over the years.

Tacha explained that the circumstances that helped BBNaija gain widespread attention in its earlier seasons are no longer the same. She argued that social media platforms now provide Nigerians with an endless stream of trending discussions, celebrity controversies and personal stories, creating more competition for reality television. Using the public interest surrounding the family issues involving music duo P-Square as an example, she noted that online conversations can sometimes attract more attention than events unfolding inside the reality show’s house. In her view, the programme must recognise this shift and find ways to compete in the increasingly crowded entertainment space.

The reality star also suggested that temporarily suspending the programme could help build anticipation for its eventual return. She believes giving viewers time away from the show may encourage them to appreciate it more when it comes back with a refreshed concept. Tacha stressed that the goal should not simply be to continue producing new seasons, but to offer something that feels different and exciting enough to capture public interest. She urged the organisers to think beyond familiar formats and explore creative approaches that could renew viewers’ enthusiasm for the franchise.

Tacha rose to prominence during the 2019 edition of Big Brother Naija, tagged Pepper Dem, although her journey ended following her disqualification after a physical altercation with fellow housemate Mercy Eke. Despite her early exit, she has remained a recognisable figure in Nigerian entertainment, building her public profile through social media, fashion and broadcasting. Her experience as a former contestant gives her comments an additional perspective, as she has witnessed the attention the show can generate and the lasting influence it can have on participants’ careers.

Her remarks have renewed conversations about how Big Brother Naija can maintain its relevance as digital content continues to compete with traditional television for audience attention. While the programme has established itself as a major platform for discovering new entertainment personalities, Tacha believes its future success will depend on its willingness to embrace significant changes. She called on the organisers to develop a more compelling and innovative experience that reflects the interests of contemporary Nigerian audiences, arguing that a fresh direction could help the show regain excitement and strengthen its appeal when it returns.