Nigerian television has a rich history of producing captivating soap operas that have entertained, educated, and inspired audiences. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most iconic Nigerian soap operas that defined many childhoods and continue to be beloved today
Papa Ajasco and company
Papa Ajasco and Company, created by Wale Adenuga in 1996, is a Nigerian family sitcom that tackles major societal issues with humor. The show revolves around the Ajasco family, featuring Papa Ajasco, a promiscuous patriarch; Mama Ajasco, his long-suffering wife; Bobo Ajasco, their mischievous son; and colorful characters like Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Pa James, and Pa Jimoh. At its peak, it was Nigeria’s most-watched comedy series, reaching 12 African countries weekly.
Checkmate
A popular Nigerian television serial that aired from April 4, 1991, to 1994. Created by Amaka Igwe and sponsored by Lever Brothers Nigeria, the show starred Ego Nnamani, Francis Agu, Bob-Manuel Udokwu, Mildred Iweka, Kunle Bamtefa, and Richard Mofe Damijo. Set in Lagos, the story revolves around the Haatrope family, their enemies who seek to destroy their business and legacy, and their friends and associates.
Fuji house of commotion
Fuji House of Commotion is a Nigerian sitcom produced and directed by Amaka Igwe. The show stars Kunle Bamtefa as Chief Fuji, a wealthy man married to four women, including Mama Moji (Toun Oni), Peace (Ngozi Nwosu), Caro (Ireti Doyle), and others, played by Louisa Onu as Ireti, Jude Orhoha as Gbenro, John Njamah as Rabiu, and Chika Chukwu as Jumoke. The sitcom explores the comedic dynamics of Chief Fuji’s large family and the challenges of providing for his numerous wives and children.
This life
This Life is a Nigerian soap opera produced by Wale Adenuga Productions, known for its gripping storylines and real-life themes. The show explores moral choices and consequences through various families and individuals dealing with societal issues like poverty, infidelity, greed and betrayal. Each season features new characters and story arcs, offering relatable and thought-provoking content.
Super story
Super Story is a Nigerian anthology television drama series created by Wale Adenuga, based on a magazine he published. The show premiered in 2001 and has been airing on NTA and Wap TV. With 45-minute episodes, Super Story explores various themes and storylines, showcasing Nigerian culture and society. The series has received recognition, winning the Best Television Series award at the Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards in 2016.
Everyday people
Everyday People is a beloved Nigerian television series that aired in the early 2000s. Produced by Tajudeen Adepetu’s Consolidated Media Associates, it aired every Sunday on Africa Independent Television (AIT). The series was known for its relatable storylines, memorable characters, and catchy soundtrack.
Dear mother
Dear Mother is a beloved Nigerian soap opera that aired in the late 1990s and early 2000s. It tells the story of a widow, Teju, her children, Ifeanyi, Susan, and Ada, and their grandmother, exploring family dynamics and societal issues. Produced for Africa Independent Television (AIT), “Dear Mother” remains a cherished part of Nigerian television history, offering a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of family life.
I need to know
I Need to Know is a Nigerian family-oriented TV series that aired from 1997 to 2002. Sponsored by the United Nations Population Fund, the show starred Funke Akindele as Bisi, Uche Ejiogu as Ngozi, Taiwo Lesh as Hauwa, and Amaka Egwuatu as Essien. The series focused on adolescent reproductive health, encouraging parent-child communication and informed decision-making among young adults. It followed the lives of seven secondary school students navigating adolescence, HIV/AIDS, and education.
Clinic matters
Clinic Matters is a Nigerian comedy series created by Paul Igwe that premiered in 2009. The show revolves around the daily life of a busy doctor, Emeka Ossai, his team of nurses, including Nurse Abigail, Nurse Titi, and Nurse Theresa, and the various patients they encounter. The series was popular not only in Nigeria but also in other African countries like Kenya, Ghana, and Uganda.
Domino
Domino is indeed a notable Nigerian soap opera that aired in the mid-2000s. The show’s strong cast, including Kate Henshaw and Fred Amata, contributed significantly to its popularity. Domino portrayed love, betrayal.
