By Modupe Gbadeyanka
**As Organisers Keep Mute on Host
After seven years off air, the popular Gulder Ultimate Search (GUS) sponsored by Nigerian Breweries Plc is making a return to the screen in 2021.
The reality show started in 2004 and ran for 11 seasons before going on hiatus in 2014. Since then, lovers of the programme have longed for its return until this week when the organisers announced its shock return.
“We are really excited to be bringing back the Gulder Ultimate Search for the viewing pleasure of Nigerians who have over the years continued to call for the return of the show.
“The planning team has put in place everything necessary to give the fans exactly what they enjoy about the show, and I am confident that everyone will be pleasantly surprised and delighted with what we have in store,” the Corporate Affairs Director of Nigerian Breweries, Ms Sade Morgan said.
Business Post gathered that the theme for the 2021 edition of the show, which used to be one of the most-watched reality TV series in Nigeria, is The Age of Craftsmanship.
Speaking on how to enter for the programme, Ms Morgan said registration kicked off on September 1 and will close on Wednesday, September 8, 2021.
She stated that the first screening session starts September 13 in Abuja and Enugu, while the second screening session kicks off on September 16 in Lagos, while the show proper will air from October 16 to December 19 on DStv and other local stations across the country.
However, the organisers are yet to announce the host of the new season but previous editions of the show were anchored by Nollywood actors Chidi Mokeme and Bob Manuel-Udokwu.
From the first edition, which premiered in 2004, contestants were camped in different parts of the country to struggle against themselves and the wild, i.e. nature, and their search for a hidden treasure that brings to the last person standing instant fame and fortune.
The prize rose from N3 million from the first edition to N10 million and a brand new SUV in the last edition.
In its 11-season run, the show discovered several talents who became stars in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Some of the past winners – Kunle Remi (winner of the 2010 edition), Dennis Okike (Season 8) and Chris Okagbue (Season 10) went on to build a successful career in Nollywood.
Remi, who was 22 years old when he won in 2010, starred in the Africa Magic series Tinsel, Forbidden, and several other critically acclaimed Nollywood movies like Sin City and Gold Statue. Dominic Mudabai, the winner of the fourth edition, has also appeared in numerous TV Commercials for several multinational brands.
Who Can Apply
Organisers said the new season of GUS is open to receiving applications from Nigerians between 21-35 years from September 1, 2021, via its online registration platform www.gulderultimatesearch.ng
How do you do it?
To submit an application, all you have to do is head to the GUS website, where applicants must enter their personal details, upload a photograph and answer a few questions.
What happens after application?
Shortlisted applicants will undergo a regional selection process in Abuja and Enugu on September 13 and 14, while the selection will take place in Lagos on September 16 and 17, 2021.
Business Post Contributor
I love the Gulder ultimate search, I must be among next year