Toke Makinwa is back as the host of ‘The Buzz,’ the companion talk show to Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) only on Showmax, which dives deep into the reality show’s drama, controversies, and highlights. As a devoted fan of BBNaija and an experienced host, she brings her unique perspective and vibrant personality to the table. In this exclusive interview with Style, she shares her excitement about returning to ‘The Buzz’ and what viewers can expect this season.

Hey Toke, how does it feel to return as the host of The Buzz for BBNaija season 9?

It feels really incredible! I have missed the show. I am such a huge fan of the BBNaija franchise, and Big Brother is such an incredible social experiment. The Buzz is literally the analysis of the show; it is where we get around to talking about every single thing that has to do with Big Brother Naija. We discuss and have guests stop by to air their views about the housemates, Biggie’s rules, and everything that has to do with the show. So I’m super excited that, you know, The Buzz is back, and of course, I am the host.

Can you give us a sneak peek into what viewers can expect this time?

 Chaos, drama, honesty, honesty, a lot of laughs, crazy moments because we trust the housemates to deliver, and Biggie knowing him very well and all that he has up his sleeves; it’s about to be a ride.

How has The Buzz evolved since its inception, and what new elements are you bringing to the show this season?

I think that over the years, we have not just kept the guests as celebrities; we also let fans of the show come on the show as guests because they have a whole different perspective as fans. They are the ones who sleep, wake up, eat and breathe BBNaija. So we’re definitely going to do more of that. We would also have a versatile guest this season as well. We don’t like to let you in on all tricks and bits. Just hang on; it’s about to be an incredible ride.

 What do you think sets The Buzz apart from other BBNaija-related shows?

Because we show you never seen before clips. Clips that you don’t get to see on TV. We have access. That’s what makes us different.

How do you handle the pressure of hosting a show with such a massive following?

Honestly, you can never ever fully grasp how, you know, huge the platform is until the show starts. I mean, constant Twitter wars with the fans, constant conversations with them, thinking their faves deserve to be treated differently. I just absolutely love just how it’s all love after all.

How do you think The Buzz contributes to the overall BBNaija experience for fans?

I think the fans feel like they’re heard and seen and matter and belong.

Talking about BBNaija, what are your thoughts on the impact BBNaija has on popular culture in Nigeria?

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I think it depicts who we are as a people. BBNaija is a classic mirror that mirrors the lives and times of people you know, live with, work with, and people in your lives.

Let’s go personal. What does a typical day in Toke Makinwa’s life look like?

Busy, currently usually running in between sets; once I’m done with my media work, there’s my entrepreneurial side, where I have to overlook certain things as well. So, my days usually get really hectic. But I love all that I do and the hats I wear, so I’m generally up to juggling and running from one thing to another. It’s a lot of pressure, but it’s also the kind of pressure needed to keep you on your toes. So, I’m up for it.

 And about work, how do you stay motivated and maintain your drive in such a competitive industry?

I think I just focus on my lane. You need to focus on what you’re called to do. You cannot get your grass tended if you keep looking at how low and how high the next person’s grass bed is. You literally have to stay in your lane and row your boat and be aware, very aware, of your journey and how lucky and blessed you are to be living out your gift. Because so many people are stuck in indecisiveness and not even knowing where to begin. But here you are, literally just experimenting through life. So, it’s a blessing that I don’t take for granted. And I stay focused on myself, and that’s my biggest competition.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your career?

The most rewarding aspect of my career? Having an idea, fiddling with it, going through my nerves, putting it to life, and actually seeing it come to life is really, really rewarding.

What legacy do you hope to leave behind in the media and entertainment industry?

I want every young girl out there to think, believe, accept, and walk in their purpose, knowing that the sky is big enough and that if there are people who have done it fearlessly, they too can.

What are some of the key lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?

 I’ll share three. Nobody really cares that much; worrying about how people feel about you is pointless because everybody has their own situations that they’re trying to walk through. It’s important to stay teachable; you don’t know it all. The day you think you do is the day you’re out. And also, never, ever, ever, ever underestimate the power of prayer; it changes everything.

Looking back at your journey, is there anything you would have done differently?

I think regret is exhausting. I try not to leave my life in regret. Everything that happened in my life, good and bad, has worked both hand in hand to get me to this place called beautiful. And life is meant to be lived forward and understood backwards. I’m still going to make many more mistakes, so why would I regret it as long as I know that I’m true to myself and my heart’s intention is good? I’m not worried about things that don’t go as planned because oftentimes, better things come together when they fall apart.