The Timeless Classics of Nigerian TV

These are some of the greatest TV Shows to ever grace the Nigerian small screen.

In the world of television, nothing truly new exists under the sun. Every "great" show airing today stands on the shoulders of something "greater" from the past.

For a nation like Nigeria, where documenting history often takes a backseat, it’s unsurprising how easily we forget the iconic TV shows that graced our screens long before the advent of cable, streaming services, and social media. Without careful preservation, these cherished memories risk fading into legends and, eventually, myths.

To rekindle the conversation and celebrate our rich television heritage, here are some of the best and most talked-about shows in Nigeria’s TV history, spanning multiple generations.

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1. The Village Headmaster (1968-1988)

One of the longest-running and most popular TV shows on the NTA, The Village Headmaster tackled issues like inter-ethnic harmony, problem-solving, public affairs, health education, and family enjoyment. Its influence and reach remain unparalleled.

2. Things Fall Apart (1987)

Adapted from Chinua Achebe's eponymous novel, this NTA hit brought Pete Edochie to the limelight as the fierce Okonkwo. Featuring talents like Sam Loco and Nkem Owoh, this show laid a foundation for many stars who would go on to shape the Nigerian movie industry.

3. New Masquerade (the mid-80s – mid-90s)

Although I missed this one, my parents often spoke of it fondly. Airing on NTA, it featured memorable characters and their entertaining antics, including Chief Zebrudaya alias 4:30 (Chika Okpala), his wife Ovularia (Lizzy Evoeme), the late Chief Jegede Shokoya (Claude Eke), Giringori (James Iroha), and Clarus (David Ofor).

4. Tales by Moonlight (1984-unknown)

Another NTA classic, Tales by Moonlight remained a beloved show for children well into the '90s. It was a staple of my childhood and truly a must-watch.

5. Checkmate (1991 – 1994)

One of the greatest legacies of the late filmmaker Amaka Igwe, Checkmate followed the aristocratic Haatrope family as they navigated internal and external threats. Its compelling storytelling and rich character development left an indelible mark on Nigerian television.

It starred Ego Nnamani, Francis Agu, Bob-Manuel Udokwu, Mildred Iweka, Kunle Bamtefa, and Richard Mofe Damijo, among others.

6. Papa Ajasco and Company (1996 – present)

Perhaps the most popular of Wale Adenuga’s creations, Papa Ajasco and Company captured viewers' hearts with its humor and relatable characters. Remarkably, it continues to air new episodes today.

7. I Need to Know (1997 – 2002)

I Need to Know was an educational show sponsored by the United Nations Population Fund. It tackled critical issues like HIV/AIDS and teenage pregnancy, educating viewers at a time when these topics were often misunderstood. Among its many highlights, the show is particularly remembered for introducing audiences to Funke “Jenifa” Akindele, who would later become a major star.

8. Super Story (2001 – 2018)

It’s hard to find a middle-aged Nigerian who hasn’t seen Super Story. This anthology series brought engaging stories to our screens before many of us even knew what an anthology was. It was a cultural phenomenon, as impactful as Hollywood’s Game of Thrones.

Other iconic shows by Wale Adenuga include Binta and Friends, Odd World, and This Life.

9. Everyday People (Early to mid-2000s)

“🎵 Everyday People, that’s you that’s me…”

I’ll never forget that iconic line from the iconic TV show. I’ll also never forget that it’s the first place I recognized Sam Loco Efe and Desmond Elliot. The series told the story of the everyday lives of typical people living in Lagos, the lives of their neighbors, and the many dramas that happen around them in the city.

10. Fuji House of Commotion (Early 2000s)

Few people know that Fuji House of Commotion is a spin-off of Checkmate. Its successful run helped it forge a unique identity distinct from the show that inspired it. The family-oriented comedy captured the chaos of Chief Fuji’s polygamous household. As a child, I watched it often and recently revisited some episodes on YouTube. If you’re a fan of Chief Fuji and his family’s antics, it’s worth checking out.

11. Edge of Paradise (2006 – unknown)

The convincing portrayal by onscreen couple Nobert Young and Caroline King made me believe they were truly married. I didn't yet fully comprehend the intricacies of TV and film productions, so I ran with that narrative for some time. Edge of Paradise’s excellent casting and storytelling truly elevated the show.

The series also starred Joseph Benjamin, Remi Abiola, Bukky Ajayi, and Azizat Zadiq among others.

12. Domino (2005 - )

Domino made a big impact when it premiered in 2005. The cast included Kalu Ikeagwu, Femi Branch, Kate Henshaw, Susan Peters, Akintunde Ogunleye, and Angela Phillips, among others. The show was intense and filled with drama, focusing on billionaire Lord Williams, his children, his ex-wife, and his househelp turned new wife.

13. Dear Mother

Dear Mother revolved around a family of five: Teju, the mother, whose husband has passed away; Ifeanyi, the only son who has just finished secondary school; the grandmother, Teju's mother; Susan, the youngest child; and Ada, the elder daughter. The drama explores modern-day life in Nigeria and the various decisions the characters must make.

14. Face2Face

Face2Face, as its name suggests, is a comedy-drama that highlights the happenings in the "face me I face you" housing system common among suburban Nigerians.

Recently revived, this comedy-drama now features popular contemporary talents like Mr. Macaroni and Broda Shaggi, alongside returning cast members such as Funky Mallam and Sunday Omobolanle (Pappyluwe), among others.

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Honorable Mentions:

• Dance of Shame

• Us

• Family Ties

• The KKB Show

• My Mum and I

• Extended Family

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Originally published at https://rinzyreviews.wordpress.com on August 15, 2021.