The profile of the judges who will evaluate each participant in the Nigeria Idol Contest this year. Here are the four judges.
IK Osakioduwa
Nigerian Idol is going big this season – and one of Africa’s foremost television talents Ikponmwosa “IK” Osakioduwa is set to host!
Not only is he tall, dark and handsome, but rumour has it IK is so good-looking, anyone who has ever laid eyes on him has never shed a single tear thereafter.
IK is not only an endearing television personality, but he also is a respected radio presenter too. Popularly known for his memorable presenting work on Big Brother Africa, The Voice Nigeria, the AMVCAs and Rhythm FM, IK is arguably one of the hardest working men in television today.
Ever the consummate professional, when IK is not memorising and perfecting scripts, he keeps himself busy with Highlights With IK and Comedy Nites, shows produced by his own company, Lite Communications Ltd.
Not only does IK have a long track record of setting the standard and scaling new heights in live broadcasting, but he is also renowned for his charisma, razor-sharp wit and versatility. We are left in no doubt that IK’s distinctive ability to bring humour, warmth and respect to any conversation will be just the right tonic to help our stars-in-waiting break out of their shells – and straight into the big time!
IK is the true definition of the phrase: “It takes a little patience and faith, but it’s worth the wait in the end”. And why is that? Our host has previously auditioned for the Nigerian Idol presenter gig but was unsuccessful then. Today, IK couldn’t be happier to take the baton, forge forward and help Naija find her newest Idol.
DJ Sose
DJ Sose is one of the most recognisable faces in Nigerian entertainment today – and his amazing face tattoo has a lot to do with it. Luckily, DJ Sose is not just a walking canvas. This talented muso has earned his stripes in the cutthroat world of music too.
A connoisseur of a diverse range of music artforms such as afro beats, jazz, hip hop, rock and house, Sose’s keen ear for music has kept dancefloors burning across Naija and the globe at large, for many years.
He has performed at music festivals and television shows in different countries and was even named the official deejay for Nigeria‘s first Saturday late-night show, Highlites with IK.
Apart from curating magical musical experiences that combine genres and eras across the sonic spectrum, Sose also pays it forward by helping others on their path to music success by managing their music projects.
He is not only street smart; but book smart too! He has a degree in Business Information Systems from the University of Hertfordshire, and a diploma in Film and Video Production from Cavendish College, both in the United Kingdom.
He has also published a comic book called Beatz, where the protagonist is bestowed with the power to stop bullies.
A graduate, a walking work of art, a smiter of bullies and a musical genius? What a guy! We can’t wait to have Sose’s expertise on the set of Nigerian Idol as we unearth Naija’s next superstar.
Obi Asuka
With a wealth of experience in the entertainment and corporate world, Obi Asika is a Nigerian treasure.
As founder of Dragon Africa and co-founder of Social Media Week: Lagos, Asika has mastered the art of excellence and continues to inspire and blaze a trail across many industries including music, television production, marketing and communication, as well as event production.
Asika joined the board of trustees of the Nigerian Olympic Committee in December 2020 and is the former vice-chairman of Kwara United, a Nigerian Premier League football club.
Having carved a niche for himself with his involvement in television shows and events like the Nigerian World Cup Village for FIFA 99, Big Brother and Channel O Eviction Parties, the Calabar Music Festival and many more, we’re super thrilled to see this accomplished mover and shaker on the Nigerian Idol judging panel this season 3.
Sheyi Shay
Seyi, or Shay? Which one of her multi-talented faces will be taking a seat at the judges’ table in season 6 of Nigerian Idol?
With a personality and work ethic to match, it’s a no-brainer that Shay’s first love is media and entertainment. Born in London on 21 December 1985, Shay, real name Deborah Oluwaseyi Joshua, began her foray into music at the tender age of six – and like the hardworking queen she is, had toured 13 major cities in Japan during her first music tour at just 15.
Her hit songs Gimmie Love (The Remix) featuring American superstar Teyana Taylor, Irawo, Yolo Yolo, and Murda (amongst many others), are engraved in the hearts and minds of music lovers across the country and world. Shay is currently signed to Universal Music Publishing and continues to deliver hit after hit.
Besides slaying in fashion and music, this all-round entertainer has taken her talents to the silver screen too. She recently made her acting debut in the film Lara and the Beat.
Shay has also featured in New York Times reporter Dionne Searcy’s book: In Pursuit of Disobedient Women, where she is highlighted as one of the most interesting women Searcy has ever met. Hands up if you can’t wait to see Seyi Shay on Nigerian Idol season 6!
