Nigerian Idol: Mercy Chinwo, and Four Other Successful Winners
The 10th edition of the Nigeria Idol show is underway and it has quite the experience with Judges and 2025 contestants. It is another voting season and as the panel, anticipation is at an all-time high as the judges, contestants and the audience wonder who the next winner of the talent show will be. The judges – veteran singer Omawumi, Rich Hassani, popular “Thunder Fire You” singer and Iyanya Mbuk have had quite the time with super talented Nigerians on this season of the show.
The top contestants, including Mikki, Raymu, Ellacentric, Kristopher, Sally, Boss Lady, Brammy, Jkenova, Lawrence, Purp have all showcased an impressive range of voices and styles.
With the most mesmerizing individual performances of hits like “This Is Me,” CKay’s “Love Nwantiti,” and Pheelz’s “Finesse,” this set of Nigerian idols are once again showing that Nigerian has got some of the best talents in the world.
Who will take the crown in 2025? While we wait, let’s take a trip down the memory lane to highlight some of the show’s most successful winners and where they are now.
1. Mercy Chinwo (Season 2, 2012)
A rare Idol winner who switched genres successfully, Mercy Chinwo pursued gospel music post-win. Her debut single “Testimony” (2015) and the popular follow-up “Igwe” cemented her status. She has gone on to win key awards, including Best Gospel Artiste at CLIMAX Awards 2018 and Gospel Artiste of the Year at AFRIMMA 2020.
2. Kingdom Kroseide (Season 6, 2021)
Emerging from a five-year hiatus, Kingdom charmed audiences with his sheer musical talent. He won a record-breaking N30 million, a new SUV, trips abroad, and a recording deal. His singles like “Love Call” and “Shey You Go Dey” have enjoyed positive reviews, and he’s been appointed a Bayelsa youth ambassador.
3. Progress Chukwuyem (Season 7, 2022)
Progress walked away with over N30 million, an SUV, a year’s supply of drinks and travels, plus an EP deal. His win during a packed season of diverse talent gave him instant fan recognition. He continues to build his brand through collaborations and live performances.
4. Victory Gbakara (Season 8, 2023)
As one the most recent talent to break through, Victory clinched N35 million, a car, and a recording deal. A law graduate and former choir director, he’s committed to gospel music and sees his Idol win as a platform for ministry
5. Chima Udoye (Season 9, 2024)
Chima Udoye emerged as the winner of Nigerian Idol Season 9 in 2024. His powerful performances week after week left the judges and audience in awe. Chima took home ₦30 million in cash, a brand-new SUV, a recording contract, and other exciting prizes. Since his win, he has been working on his debut project, which is highly anticipated among fans.
So far, Nigerian Idol has proven to be more than just another talent show. It has been shaping some of Nigeria’s top talents and there’s still more to see. Now, who are the next idols rising? Stay updated with iNaijaNow.
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