I Was Almost Erased from TV Forever — Ebuka Obi Uchendu (Big Brother Naija Reality Show Host)

I still remember the moment clearly like a scene from a film I never auditioned for.

It was 2006. I had just left the Big Brother Nigeria house. I didn’t win, not even close, but I had made some noise. People knew my name. I was convinced that this was it my break into mainstream media. The floodgates of opportunity would surely open now.

I was wrong.

The weeks that followed were… quiet. Too quiet. The calls I expected didn’t come. Some TV stations even told me to “come back when I have something more to offer.” One brand executive said to my face: “You don’t have the kind of face Nigerians want to see every week.”

That broke me. Imagine hearing that just as you’re trying to believe you’re worthy. I started to doubt everything my talent, my voice, even my appearance.I was on the brink of giving it all up.

Then, one rainy evening, a call came through from a small team working on a youth-focused show called Rubbin’ Minds. They needed a temporary guest host — just for a few episodes.

I almost said no. I was bitter, tired, and afraid of being invisible again. But I said yes.

Those “few episodes” turned into a permanent spot. That opportunity birthed other platforms. Eventually, it led me to become the host of Big Brother Naija — the same show where I was once a contestant. Full circle.

I was once written off almost forgotten by the same system that celebrates me now. But what saved me was one person who believed, one chance I dared to take, and the courage to show up even when I didn’t feel ready.

If you’re feeling invisible right now… DON’T GIVE UP. Your “yes” could be just one phone call, one brave decision, one more day of not quitting away. Keep going. Someone is watching. Your moment is coming.

Share this story with someone who’s about to give up. Let’s remind them: the world hasn’t seen their best chapter yet.