Popular Nigerian entertainer and singer Dapo ‘D’Banj’ Oyebanji, songstress Simi and music executive Obi Asika have returned as judges for the season eight of the Nigerian Idol.

The return of the three entertainment personalities as judges of the music talent show was announced by Dr. Busola Tejumola, the Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels at MultiChoice on Tuesday, March 28.

Dr. Tejumola said that season eight of Nigerian Idol will also see Ik Osakioduwa returning as the host when it kicks off on April 28 with the auditions while the live show will begin in May.

She also said that this is coming as Africa Magic celebrates its 20th year of existence across Africa, hence, MultiChoice is happy to return the show for season eight after a successful season seven.

Dr. Tejumola also revealed that though season seven of the talent show recorded over 200 million votes in the nine weeks while the finale recorded over 40 million votes from the public, she’s optimistic that votes in season 8 will outdo the previous seasons.

On the partnerships for season eight, Tejumola announced that Bigi drinks and Tecno will return as headline sponsors for the music talent hunt show.

Speaking about the roles of judges, Asika said the judges bring their individuality to the show yet they disagree to agree on each of the contestants.

“On the show, we as judges argue about every contestant, we always try to make it count for every one of them, we don’t laugh or mock them but we make every performance count. However, to make the top 20, you have to work for it and put in the work. I can tell you for this season, there are some good talents,” he said.

Obi, D’Banj, and Simi were judges for the last season, which produced Progress Chukwuyem as winner. (The Nation)