If there’s one thing that Biggie’s babies can dish on a platter, it’s a romance worth keeping up with. For the past nine seasons, we’ve seen love in all its forms – love at first sight, the slow burn of friendship-turned-romance, and of course, good old-fashioned lust. But one thing’s for sure, Big Brother Naija housemates are not exempt from the highs and lows of romantic love.

Some ships have gone on to sail far beyond the house, while others crashed and burned the moment the real world came knocking. And with so much chemistry, chaos and couple goals on our screens over the years, narrowing it down to just 10 was no easy task. But after much debate (and a little heartbreak), we’ve listed the most iconic Big Brother Naija ships that had us completely hooked.

1. BamTeddy (Bambam & Teddy A – Season 3)

The OG success story of Big Brother Naija romance. Bambam and Teddy A gave us everything – steamy moments, soulful conversations, and an undeniable connection. Their love blossomed post-show into marriage and two beautiful children. BamTeddy became proof that Big Brother Naija love could be real and long-lasting. 

2. Kiddrica (Erica & Kiddwaya – Season 5)

Kiddrica gave us a ship with premium passion and unpredictable energy, which had the whole country watching. Their flirtatious energy was unmatched, but so was the drama. Erica’s disqualification cast a shadow over their ship, yet their connection remained the focal point of the season. Whether you loved them or not, you couldn’t look away. 

3. Merike (Mercy Eke & Ike – Season 4)

If chaos and chemistry had a name, it would be Merike. Mercy Eke and Ike served fire and flames from day one – intense arguments, passionate make-ups, and serious ride-or-die energy. Their relationship even extended into the real world with a spin-off reality show. Although they eventually parted ways, the Merike era was unforgettable, making their comeback into the All Stars season iconic. 

4. Mina (Miracle & Nina – Season 3)

Mina were the sweethearts of Season 3, even if their ship stirred its fair share of controversy. Nina came into the house in a relationship, but her connection with Miracle quickly took centre stage. Though things fizzled out post-show, their in-house bond was one of the most genuine connections fans have seen. 

5. Groophy (Groovy & Phyna – Season 7)

Groophy was a ship that sparked fast and burned hot. Phyna’s bold energy and Groovy’s cool demeanour made for electric television. Their romance had its messy moments, but it was that raw, unfiltered vibe that kept fans invested. Their ship blossomed quickly after Beauty’s disqualification, but Groophy gave us passion, public displays of affection and premium wahala. The two broke up outside of the house, and the reunion revealed that Phyna felt played, while Groovy maintained he had been honest about his feelings. 

6. ShaWanni (Shaun & Wanni – Season 9)

ShaWanni began as a sweet, slow-burn connection rooted in deep chats and emotional safety. Wanni’s fiery spirit balanced out Shaun’s calm energy, and their bond quickly blossomed into romance. But as feelings deepened, so did the tension. Simmering miscommunication, emotional clashes and Ebuka’s table shaking led to a dramatic fallout. Though it ended in heartbreak, their ship stirred conversations for its emotional intensity and early promise.

7. CrossGel (Cross & Angel – Season 6) 

CrossGel was chaotic, flirty, and fun. Angel kept things undefined, while Cross was clearly invested and sometimes confused. They flirted in the house, showered together, and often appeared as best friends with sexual tension. Their “are-they-aren’t-they” dynamic had fans going back and forth all season. Even at the Reunion, they admitted their bond was unique, if a bit messy, and the mess followed them into the All Stars season. Classic Big Brother Naija energy. 

8. Shella (Sheggz & Bella – Season 7)

Shella had fans split right down the middle. Some loved their cute moments and couple aesthetics, while others raised eyebrows at their frequent arguments and emotional clashes. Regardless, they were one of the most consistent couples in the Level Up house and gave the Biggieverse talking points for weeks. Bella and Sheggz are reportedly still close outside the house.

9. NellySooj (Nelly & Sooj – Season 9)

NellySooj were steamy and magnetic from the jump. Their connection built quickly and carried emotional weight, complete with late-night chats, flirtatious banter and that bathroom moment. Though Nelly later revealed they weren’t officially dating and parted ways due to family matters, this ship left a mark. 

10. TopNita (Topher & Anita – Season 9)

TopNita was the romance that viewers didn’t see coming, but soon couldn’t stop watching. Their ship began with a natural, effortless connection. Though they never labelled their bond, their closeness was undeniable. However, when Dami reentered the house, emotional distance grew between them, leading to moments of tension and uncertainty. Despite this, they remained emotionally tethered, often checking in on each other and sharing intimate moments. Their ship did not make it past the house, but their respect for each other remains. 

Big Brother Naija may be a game, but these ships made it feel like a love story... or several. From fiery passion to slow-burning affection, these couples gave us iconic moments that live rent-free in our heads. Do you agree with the list, or did we leave out one of your faves? Let us know which ship still has your heart?

Big Brother Naija S10 premieres on July 26 and July 27 on Africa Magic Showcase, Family and Showmax at 19:00 WAT (20:00 CAT). Watch live 24/7, on DStv Channel 198, GOtv Channel 49, and on Showmax. Follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook and Tik Tok for all the gist. BB Naija season 10 is proudly brought to you by our Gold sponsor Guinness Nigeria.