Opeyemi Ayanwale, better known to fans as Imisi, has been crowned the winner of Big Brother Naija Season 10. At just 24, she says embracing vulnerability and staying authentic were the keys to her victory.
In an exclusive interview with The Punch, the reality star described her win as both “surreal” and “overwhelming.” “It’s an incredible feeling,” she said. “I haven’t fully processed everything yet.”
When asked about the strategy behind her success, Imisi didn’t hesitate. “If people say being myself was a strategy, then fine. But really, I was just living my truth in that house. And I think people connected with that.”
Looking back on her time in the house, Imisi shared some of her favorite memories — from making fellow housemates laugh to heartfelt diary sessions and the camaraderie built during arena games. One standout moment? “When Big Brother complimented my gele, I felt seen. It meant the world to me.”
Though thrilled about her own win, she was quick to praise fellow finalists. “Kola, Isabella, Dede — they’re amazing. If any of them had won, I’d have been just as happy.”
As for the prize money, Imisi is taking a cautious approach. “There’s no rush. I want to invest wisely and make it count in the long run.”
Her next chapter is still unfolding, but Nollywood is firmly on her radar. “I know I can act — my housemates saw it too,” she said, expressing her desire to work with film industry icons like Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham, Mo Abudu, and Bimbo Ademoye.
The show’s aftermath has brought plenty of surprises, including support from some of those same celebrities. “I just got my phone back last night. The love I’ve seen… it’s overwhelming. I was genuinely shocked.”
While the BBNaija house wasn’t without its tensions — especially with fellow housemate Faith — Imisi says she holds no grudges. “Forgiveness has happened. Reconciliation? We’ll see. If it comes naturally, that’s fine.”
The nickname “Ijoba 606,” coined by housemate Kulture, has caught fire online — and Imisi is fully embracing it. “It’s mine now. I’m owning it proudly.”
Though fame can be a tough road, Imisi says she’s determined to stay grounded, leaning on mentors and keeping close ties to her roots. “Ebute Meta is still home. No matter what happens, our family house will always be there.”
The first thing she did after stepping off the BBNaija stage? Pray. “I just needed a moment to thank God.”
Asked if she’d do anything differently if given another chance, Imisi responded without hesitation: “Nothing. I’d still be myself — maybe more evolved, but always authentic.”
Looking ahead, she’s open to exploring acting roles, launching business ventures, and even picking up new skills like sewing — all while staying true to her core values of faith, growth, and purpose.
And would she return to the Big Brother house if invited? “Yes, definitely. I now understand better what it takes to live with different personalities under one roof.”
“This journey has taught me that absolutely anything is possible — if you believe,” Imisi said in closing.
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