D’banj, a multi-award-winning entertainer, and Simi, a songbird, have been announced as new judges for Nigerian Idol season seven.
At the media debut of the talent hunt show in Lagos on Tuesday, MultiChoice Nigeria presented the two superstars.
The show is set to premiere on DStv and Gotv on February 6th, respectively.
D’Banj and Simi join Obi Asika on the panel, replacing season six judges Seyi Shay and DJ Sose.
IK Osakioduwa, a well-known radio and television personality, will return as the show is host this season, alongside Obi Asika, who makes a reappearance as a judge.
Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head, Content and West Africa Channels at MultiChoice Nigeria, commented on the introduction of new judges for the current season:
“We could not think of a better trio to be the season’s judges than Obi Asika, D’banj and Simi. The three of them combined bring decades worth of experience in the music and entertainment business, as well as individual mastery of their crafts. We have no doubt that they will keep the viewers entertained in what will be a spectacular season!”
D’banj expressed his delight at being one of the judges this season, saying:
“I was out of the country when I found out that I was going to be a judge for this season of Nigerian Idol and I couldn’t contain my excitement. I’m coming in with my own strategy, so viewers should expect a bang.”
I decided to join the judges because of my desire to inspire young Nigerian talents,” according to D’banj.
D’banj went on to say that he opted to join the judges because he wanted to inspire new Nigerian artists.
“The show provides me the platform to encourage and help young Nigerians discover their talents in music and, more so, I don’t know how to say ‘no to people,’ D’banj highlighted.
Simi added, “I’ve always loved the idea of being a judge and I think it’s a fun thing to do. I plan to be very honest and have fun and hopefully gain inspiration from those that come on the show.”
Obi Asika, who is a returning judge, said, “I will be looking for special talents and new faces this year. I’m also excited to work with the rest of the judges this season, and I will be very fair and real to every contestant, just like I was last year.”
Kingdom Kroseide won the sixth season of Nigerian Idol following months of rigorous musical competition involving over 10,000 contestants from throughout the country and over 16 million votes cast at the finale. Following the end of online and physical auditions in November, the countdown has begun for the program is the seventh season, which will broadcast on Dstv and Gotv on February 6.
According to the producers, Bigi Drinks will be the show is headliner.
Source: Nyscinfo