After 70 days in the Big Brother House (BBNaija), 21-year-old Temi Nkem has made history as the winner of Big Brother Naija Season 11, becoming the first diaspora-born housemate to claim the reality show’s crown. 

Nkew, whose real name is Temitope Chigbue, was announced as the winner on Sunday, October 4th, 2026, emerging ahead of fellow finalists Aikou and Sheba to take home the grand prize package valued at N160 million. The package includes N90 million in cash, a brand new SUV and other sponsored prizes. 

Her victory also places her among the women who have won the Nigerian reality show, joining Mercy, Phyna, Ilebaye, and Imisi as the fifth female BBNaija champion.

Temi’s win marks a significant moment for diaspora-born Nigerians who have participated in the show over the years. Since the franchise began in 2006, several housemates born outside Nigeria have entered the Big Brother house, including Uriel Oputa and Kolapo Omotosho, who was a finalist in Season 10. None, however, had gone on to win the show until Temi. 

For years, diaspora-born housemates have been recurring part of the BBNaija cast, bringing different backgrounds and experiences into the house but falling short of the ultimate prize. Temi’s victory changes that record, making her the first to take the title home. 

Big Brother Naija housemate Temi Nkem expressing joy after being announced winner of the 90 million naira cash prize.

Who Is Temi Nkem?

Her real name is Temitope Chigbue. Born and raised in London, England, her father hails from Ibusa in Delta State, and her mother is from Ebute Metta in Lagos State. 

Before BBNaija, she studied Accounting and Finance alongside a treasury qualification in the United Kingdom and was also a lifestyle content creator. 

In the house, everyone knew Temi for her bold personality, her distinct British accent, and her catchphrase “Chakam.” She survived nominations, a fake eviction twist, and 10 weeks of tasks to reach the final night which started with 24 housemates on July, 26, 2026. 

Her victory showed how support from both sides can make a difference. Inside and outside Nigeria, her fans, whom people call “Terminators,” voted to keep her in the house every week. Ultimately, her final vote of 25.87% ahead of Aikou’s 23.68% proved that when home-based and diaspora votes unite, it can elevate a person to the top.

WRITTEN BY DEBORAH KAMARA