4 international TV shows adapted for Nigerian audiences

The Nigerian entertainment industry has a history of adapting successful international TV formats for local audiences, alongside producing original content. These adaptations retain the core appeal of the originals while incorporating cultural nuances that resonate with Nigerian viewers.

As the demand for locally relevant content grows, more global franchises continue to find a home in Nigeria.

Here are 4 international TV shows that have been successfully replicated in the country.

The Apprentice Africa

The Apprentice Africa was the African adaptation of the American reality TV show The Apprentice, originally hosted by Donald Trump. The show debuted in February 2008 and ran for 18 episodes, ending in June 2008. It was hosted by Biodun Shobanjo, co-founder of Insight Communications and CEO of Troyka Group. The competition brought together 18 contestants from six African countries – Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda, Kenya, Cameroon, and Guinea, to compete in various business tasks testing their corporate and entrepreneurial skills. Filmed in Lagos, Nigeria, the show followed the original format where contestants were divided into two teams, with the losing team facing elimination in the boardroom. Contestants were gradually eliminated until Isaac Dankyi-Koranteng, a Sales and Marketing Manager from Ghana, emerged as the winner. He was awarded a $200,000 annual salary and a brand new car, along with a position at Troyka Group.

Deal or No Deal Nigeria

Deal or No Deal Nigeria was the Nigerian adaptation of the popular international game show Deal or No Deal, which originated from the Netherlands. The show premiered in 2007 on M-Net Africa and was hosted by Nigerian actor and TV personality John Fashanu. The game involved contestants selecting one sealed briefcase out of 26, each containing a hidden cash amount ranging from a small sum to a jackpot prize. As the game progressed, contestants eliminated other briefcases, while a mysterious figure known as “The Banker” made cash offers to buy their case. The contestant had to decide whether to accept the banker’s offer or continue opening cases in the hope of winning a higher cash prize. The show combined strategy, luck, and psychological tension.

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Family Feud Nigeria

Family Feud Nigeria is the local adaptation of the globally popular game show Family Feud, which originated in the United States. The Nigerian version premiered in 2022 on Africa Magic and was hosted by actress and TV personality Bisola Aiyeola. The game featured two competing families of five members each answering survey-based questions to guess the most popular responses given by 100 people. Each round tests the contestants’ ability to think quickly and predict common opinions. The family that accumulates the most points advances to the Fast Money round for a chance to win a cash prize.

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? is the Nigerian adaptation of the British game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, which originally aired in the UK. The show premiered in 2004 and was hosted by Frank Edoho, becoming one of Nigeria’s most iconic game shows. Contestants answered a series of multiple-choice questions, with the prize money increasing with each correct answer, up to a grand prize of ₦20 million. Players had access to three lifelines—50:50, Phone a Friend, and Ask the Audience which was later changed to Ask the Host—to assist them in answering difficult questions. The show became known for its suspenseful atmosphere, dramatic music, and high-stakes gameplay.