As Big Brother Naija Season 10 came to an end last week, one element remained as memorable as the drama inside the house: Ebuka Obi-Uchendu’s wardrobe. The show’s long-time host did not only dress to impress this season. He dressed to remind audiences of the rich legacy of Nigerian creativity, paying tribute to cultural figures across music, film, and politics through his weekly fashion choices.
Collaborating with designers such as Atafo, Deji & Kola, Tinathan, Ugo Monye, and Dew, Ebuka turned the live eviction stage into a visual celebration of Nigerian history. Each outfit told a story, reflecting different moments and personalities that have shaped the nation’s popular culture.
For the launch night, he channelled Osofia in London with a nod to comedian and actor Nkem Owoh, wearing a bejewelled jacket and pink trousers that captured the character’s playful charm. He followed with a pink and white agbada inspired by King Sunny Ade, Nigeria’s first Grammy nominee, blending traditional Yoruba style with elegance.
Another memorable moment came when Ebuka wore a newspaper-print three-piece suit in honour of Prince Nico Mbarga, the musician behind the classic “Sweet Mother.” The same night, he also referenced Nigeria’s first Minister of Finance, Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh, known for his flamboyant and distinguished style in the 1960s.
In a maroon and gold outfit, he paid homage to highlife legend Chief Oliver De Coque, one of Nigeria’s most prolific recording artists with over 90 albums to his name. Later, he appeared in a lush blue suit inspired by Chinedu Ikedieze, one half of Nollywood’s beloved “Aki and Pawpaw” duo, whose comedy and global meme legacy continue to resonate.
Ebuka’s tribute to Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti was striking, featuring a bold red outfit with statement shoes that reflected Fela’s fearless artistry and influence. He also channelled Chidi Mokeme in a sleek two-piece suit, celebrating the actor’s refined yet effortless approach to fashion.
His nod to HRH Muhammadu Maccido, the 19th Sultan of Sokoto, came through a regal Northern-inspired look complete with an ornate headpiece. He then recreated President Olusegun Obasanjo’s iconic 1977 White House photo with Jimmy Carter, wearing a stylish agbada that blended political history with pop flair.
In another standout moment, he honoured Zaaki Azzay, one of Nigeria’s early hip-hop figures, in a black and white ensemble with fine detailing. Ebuka later channelled Sonny Okosun, the reggae and highlife artist known for his Pan-African activism, donning a blue jumpsuit and black headband reminiscent of the musician’s stage presence.
He also paid tribute to actor and producer Richard Mofe-Damijo in a brown animal-print suit, a fitting choice for the man who has defined screen style and charisma for more than three decades.
For the finale, Ebuka went bold with an oversized pantsuit and red shoes, inspired by Sir Shina Peters and his Afro-Juju revolution of the late 1980s. He closed the season with a traditional ensemble in honour of Chief Pete Edochie, one of the most respected figures in Nigerian film and television.
Through fashion, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu turned Big Brother Naija Season 10 into a celebration of Nigerian heritage. His weekly looks were more than style statements; they were cultural tributes that reminded audiences how deeply fashion and storytelling are intertwined.
