After months of competing with some of Nigeria’s top performers and vocalists who auditioned for the ninth season of Nigerian Idol, Chima Udoye was declared the winner of this year’s edition at the finale which held on Sunday, July 14, 2024.
The live shows began with an intense finale episode, featuring the top 10 contestants performing John Legend’s “Glory.” This was quickly followed by performances from the winners.
Progress, the winner of Nigerian Idol Season 7, performed alongside the Bigi Idol winner. Victory Gbakara, the winner of Season 8, performed an original song he wrote before his season’s finale. The evening grew more intense with performances from guest artists like Chike and Simi, followed by the top three finalists. Eventually, China was declared the winner.
Chima is renowned for his onstage charisma and vocal dexterity, consistently leaving judges 9ice, Omawumi, and Ric Hassani speechless with each performance.
During the finale performances, Omawumi remarked that Chima was competing only with himself, highlighting his remarkable growth on the show and his potential beyond the competition.
Specializing in jazz and soul music, Chima shared at the start of the show that he hopes to demonstrate his vocal talent and use the Nigerian Idol platform to motivate others. Twelve weeks later, he was declared the winner.
Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content & Channels for West Africa at MultiChoice, commended Chima for winning the finale, emphasizing the determination and perseverance that brought him to this achievement.
After a night featuring live performances by vocal talents such as Simi, Chike, and Victory Gbakara, Chima, the winner of Nigerian Idol Season 8, received a prize package that included ₦30 million in cash, a new SUV, a DStv Explora, and a one-year premium subscription.
Furthermore, the grand prize includes a music contract and a music video.
