A Decade of Growth and Evolution
Uti Nwachukwu has built a career that spans over a decade, transforming from a reality TV star into one of Nigeria’s most dynamic entertainers. His journey has taken him from winning Big Brother Africa to anchoring eleven seasons of Jara. Known for his bold fashion choices and ability to command any room he enters, Uti speaks with refreshing honesty about faith, freedom, and finding purpose. In this interview, he opens up about his childhood as the last born in a large family, the lessons he’s unlearned, and the next bold chapter he’s quietly preparing for.
The Influence of Family and Early Experiences
Growing up as the youngest in a family of six, Uti learned a lot from his older siblings, especially when it came to social interactions, family bonds, and friendships. He often felt like he was wise beyond his years, even though he was playful and mischievous. This nurturing side of him came from being the youngest and soaking up a lot from his siblings. His family remains very close, and he makes it a point to spend time with them every weekend, which grounds him and reminds him of his roots.
His parents were intentional about how they spent their time, exposing him to both local and international content through TV shows, documentaries, and other media. This exposure helped shape his love for presenting, which eventually led him to where he is today.
Finding His Home in Hosting
Uti has dabbled in music, acting, and hosting, but he feels that hosting is where he truly belongs. It allows him to be 100% himself, own the space he’s in, and let his natural energy guide the room. Hosting feels like a natural extension of who he is, and he uses his playful, empathetic, and nurturing nature to connect with others. Music was his first love, and he still dreams of becoming a big pop star. Acting, on the other hand, was more of a happy accident, starting with an audition for The Next Movie Star.
Memorable Moments on Big Brother
One of the funniest memories from his time on Big Brother was when he was brought back as a fake housemate during The Chase. He played a prank by pretending to lose his mind, which made the other housemates panic while trying to stay cool. It was a moment that cracked him up and added to the chaos of the show.
Hosting ‘Jara’ and Personal Growth
Hosting Jara for 11 seasons has been a significant part of Uti’s career. He didn’t expect the show to last this long, but it evolved over time. Working with brilliant producers, directors, and content creators helped the show grow. Hosting went from something he prepared for to something that just flowed naturally. Over the years, he learned to adapt to different personalities and guests, which helped him grow as a person and a host.
The Impact of the Show
Uti misses the team, the producers, the crew, and the random guests who brought excitement to each day. He has always been fascinated by people and enjoyed the unpredictability of who would show up each day. The pre-production meetings were always something he looked forward to, adding to the excitement of the show.
Fashion as a Statement
Uti’s style always makes a statement, and he embraces standing out rather than blending in. One of his most memorable outfits was for the Real Housewives of Lagos Season 3 reunion, where he trusted his designers and their creative process. He enjoys playing with patterns, colors, and shapes, and he encourages his designers to evolve with him.
Life as a Painting
If his life story were a painting, Uti would describe it as a blend of every imaginable color, forming something meaningful when viewed from a distance. He would call it something like “The Epiphany” or “A Timeless Experience,” capturing the essence of his journey.
Love and Self-Discovery
Uti is cautious about marriage and has learned that every relationship requires work. He believes in mastering oneself before entering a relationship and emphasizes the importance of emotional self-awareness and independence. He lives by the principle that what’s meant to be will be, and he trusts in God’s plan for his life.
Coping with Overwhelm
When life gets overwhelming, Uti turns to practices that help him reset mentally and emotionally. He watches videos on emotional regulation, meditates, and breathes deeply. He also leans on his trusted tribe, who share similar spiritual journeys. He focuses on filling his mind with knowledge and anchoring himself in faith.
Lessons Unlearned
Uti has had to shed layers of societal, religious, and cultural conditioning that weren’t serving him. He now lives by three personal rules: he can do anything as long as it doesn’t hurt himself or others, and if someone else is involved, he respects their consent. He rejects oppressive doctrines and unhealthy cultural norms, embracing freedom in thought, spirit, and how he relates to God.
Future Plans and Surprises
Uti is planning a career move or creative leap that might surprise his audience. He hints at something big in the works, which he believes is divinely orchestrated. He is open to exploring music, directing, and producing, believing that these are all part of his bigger picture. He no longer holds back due to outdated phrases like “Jack of all trades, master of none.”
Embracing Multiple Gifts
Uti encourages others to explore their multiple gifts without projecting personal limitations onto others. He believes that music, directing, and producing are all in the cards for him, as long as it aligns with God’s plan. He is ready and open to whatever comes next.