It has been jubilation galore as Mr. Chima Udoye has been declared winner of the NIgerial Idol season 9. Celebration continues to greet the crowning of Udoye on Sunday night, July 14 in Lagos, with fans describing his win as well-deserving, saying that the crown has gone whom it fits.
Chima walked away with a cash prize of N30 million, a brand new SUV and a one-year premium subscription of DStv Explora plus.
With an intense finale episode, the live shows kicked off with the rendition of John Legend’s “Glory” by all the 10 contestants, followed by special appearances from past winners Progress and Victory Gbakara.
The audience also was treated to guest performances from vocal powerhouses, Omawumi, Simi and Chike before the top three contestants, Lammy, Chioma, and Chima took the centre stage for their final performances.
The night soon got intense with performances from guest artistes such as Chike, Simi and then the top three finalists. Thereafter, Chima was announced as the winner of the show.
He could not believe his eyes as tears of joy almost rolled down his cheeks. Appreciating his fans for massive support, Chima said, “I almost fought back tears.”
Chima is known for his onstage charisma and vocal dexterity that has left the judges, 9ice, Omawumi, and Ric Hassani speechless with every performance.
During the finale performances, Omawumi pointed out that Chima was in a competition with himself – a true testament to how his rise on the show showed how much he is capable of moving beyond the boundaries of the competition.
Specialising in jazz and soul music, Chima revealed at the beginning of the show that he hoped to showcase not only his vocal prowess but also use the Nigerian Idol platform to inspire others. Twelve weeks later, he was crowned the winner.
During her speech at the finale, Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head, Content and Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice, commended Chima for emerging winner while highlighting the resilience it took for him to get to this spot.
