LAGOS, Nigeria (FN) — Opeyemi Ayanwale, popularly known as Imisi, emerged as the winner of Big Brother Naija Season 10, capturing hearts across the country with her authenticity, humor, and cultural pride. In her first post-show interview, Imisi reflected on her journey, the strategies that helped her win, and her plans for the future.
“I feel good, excited, happy, overwhelmed, and deeply grateful,” Imisi said, still processing the magnitude of her victory. “It’s surreal — I haven’t fully come to terms with the reality of my win.”
Her triumph was rooted in vulnerability, a trait she embraced throughout the show. “My vulnerability was my greatest strength,” she explained. “If people think being myself was a strategy, then so be it. But honestly, I was just living my truth.”
Imisi’s time in the house was marked by expressive moments, comedic antics, and emotional depth. She fondly recalled diary sessions with Big Brother, especially one where he complimented her gele (traditional Yoruba headtie). “That compliment still rings in my head till today,” she said.
The win was deeply personal for Imisi, especially in light of her mother’s reaction. “She said to me with so much warmth, ‘You are a child that made me proud.’ Those simple words meant everything to me,” Imisi shared.
Though she’s still deciding how to invest her prize money, Imisi is leaning toward business and entertainment. “I don’t want to rush any decision. I want to invest it wisely and in a way that it keeps generating returns,” she said.
Her passion for acting was evident during the show, and she’s eager to explore Nollywood. “I know I’m a good actress, and even my fellow housemates often told me so,” she said. She hopes to work with industry icons like Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham, Mo Abudu, and Bimbo Ademoye.
Imisi also addressed her tense moments with fellow housemate Faith, saying, “I’ve already forgiven him, but I’m not forcing anything. If reconciliation happens naturally, fine; if not, it’s okay.”
Her nickname “Ijoba 606,” coined by housemate Kulture during an arena task, has gained traction among fans. “Yes, absolutely. It’s my name now, and I’m ‘owning’ it proudly,” she said.
Despite her newfound fame, Imisi remains grounded. “Ebute Meta will always be my hood; that’s home,” she said. “Even if I eventually move elsewhere, our family house will always be there.”
The first thing she did after stepping off the stage was pray. “I just took a moment to thank God and say a prayer of gratitude,” she said. And if Big Brother calls again? “Yes, definitely,” she replied. “I now have a better understanding of what it takes to live and interact with different kinds of people.”
With her blend of charisma, cultural pride, and emotional intelligence, Imisi is poised to make a lasting impact on Nigeria’s entertainment scene. As she put it, “I really hope Nollywood is ready for me — because I’m ready for them.”
