Before streaming services and social media took over entertainment, Nigerian TV shows were the heart of family bonding, laughter, and storytelling. 

Whether it was the rib-cracking humor of Papa Ajasco, the gripping drama of Checkmate, or the unpredictable chaos of Fuji House of Commotion, these shows shaped an era and left a lasting impact on Nigerian television.

Let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most iconic TV shows that kept us glued to our screens.

Papa Ajasco – The pioneer of Nigerian comedy

Few TV shows had as much cultural impact as Papa Ajasco, produced by Wale Adenuga. Originally a comic strip before it became a movie in 1984, it later transitioned into a sitcom that entertained millions.

The show followed the misadventures of Papa Ajasco, a bald-headed, potbellied man known for his signature head tap and “Ojigbijigbijigbi” exclamation. His wife, Mama Ajasco, constantly had to deal with his antics, while their mischievous son, Ajasco, got into all sorts of trouble. 

The show’s other unforgettable characters included the womanizing Boy Alinco, the ever-curious Miss Pepeye, and the strict but comical Pa James. With its slapstick humor, exaggerated characters, and moral lessons, Papa Ajasco became a Saturday night tradition for many Nigerian families.

Super Story: “This is a Super Story… A Life of Struggle and Pain”

No Nigerian TV theme song is as unforgettable as the opening tune of Super Story. This anthology drama series, also created by Wale Adenuga, delivered emotional and often tragic stories that reflected real-life struggles.

Unlike most TV series, Super Story didn’t follow one set of characters. Each season introduced a new storyline, with the most iconic being Oh Father, Oh Daughter, which told the story of Suara, a struggling mechanic who betrayed his marriage for wealth. 

The series was filled with betrayal, love, and heartbreak, often ending with a moral lesson. For years, Super Story was a staple on Nigerian television, keeping viewers emotionally invested in its intense drama.

Checkmate

Before Tinsel became Nigeria’s most-watched soap opera, Checkmate ruled the screens. This 1990s classic, created by Amaka Igwe, was a sophisticated drama series that showcased power struggles, crime, love, and business rivalry.

The story revolved around the Haatrope family, especially Ann Haastrope, a strong and independent woman trying to keep her family’s business together while dealing with various conflicts. The show had a compelling mix of corporate battles, crime, and romance, making it one of Nigeria’s most well-written TV series.

Checkmate was also the launchpad for legendary actors like Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) and Norbert Young, who went on to have successful careers in Nollywood.

Fuji House of Commotion

As the title suggests, Fuji House of Commotion was all about drama and disorder, yet it was incredibly funny. This spin-off of Checkmate, created by Amaka Igwe, followed Chief Fuji, a polygamist, and his multiple wives and children who were constantly at each other’s throats.

The show highlighted the hilarious chaos of a polygamous Nigerian household, with each wife fighting for attention and their children causing even more trouble. It was packed with witty dialogue, ridiculous misunderstandings, and non-stop laughter.

Characters like Chief Fuji (played by Kunle Bamtefa), Peaceful Peace (the ‘calm’ but dramatic wife), and Ireti (the troublesome wife) made the show a household favorite.

Which of these classics was your favorite?