Mercedes, a 26-year-old entrepreneur and performance artist from Delta State, entered the Big Brother Naija Season 11 house on July 26, 2026, as one of 25 contestants vying for the ₦160 million grand prize. Known for her dual identity as a church singer and pole dancer, she promises to bring energy, authenticity, and unforgettable moments to the show.
Background and Early Life
Born Emi Victoria Ijeoma in Delta State, Mercedes grew up in the Oshodi-Isolo area of Lagos. She is the eldest child in her family, a role that shaped her personality. In her introduction video, she said: 'I seem to have this motherly nature. I don't know, maybe because I'm the firstborn.' She attended secondary school in Lagos and later earned a degree in physiology from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Career and Talents
Mercedes is the CEO of Horizon Concierge Company, which manages high-end client requests and lifestyle needs. She also works as a qualified massage therapist, describing herself as 'an aerial seduction artist.' In her introduction, she explained: 'I pamper men and literally heal men with my hands.' Her musical journey began in church choirs, but her love for rhythm later led her to pole dancing and aerial performance, creating a unique blend that distinguishes her from other housemates.
Social Media Presence
Mercedes maintains an active presence on Instagram, where she shares updates about her concierge business, lifestyle, and dance art. As of early in the season, she had over 1,500 followers. She also engages with fans on Facebook and X (Twitter), using the handle @ijeomaemi.
Journey to BBNaija Season 11
Speaking to DStv about her goals, Mercedes stated: 'I know I'll bring entertainment, authenticity, vulnerability, confidence, and unforgettable moments.' She acknowledged that her extreme nature might surprise viewers: 'If I want to be soft, I am soft to the extreme. If I want to be loud, I'm loud to the extreme.' During launch night, host Ebuka Obi-Uchendu interviewed her, and she playfully declared: 'You'll catch me upside down on the pole, entertaining your man or your woman.' Her official DStv Africa Magic profile sums up her mindset: 'Meet Mercedes, the Delta-born entrepreneur bringing boss energy with zero apologies. By day, she's building a rising concierge business; by passion, she's a performance artist.'
Relationship Status and Values
Mercedes is currently single. In her introduction clip, she reflected on past dating experiences: 'I have learned that as a woman, you should always have your own money. That way, you will not suffer abuse, whether emotional or financial.' She is a strong advocate for female independence, adding: 'I am here to bring every version of myself to the spotlight. You can be multidimensional, hold your ground, and secure the bag.'
Hobbies and Hidden Talents
Her hobbies include singing, dancing, and playing dress-up. One of her hidden talents is opera singing, which adds another layer to her multifaceted personality.
Why Mercedes Stands Out
Mercedes' unique combination of business drive, performance art, and unapologetic authenticity makes her a housemate to watch. Her ability to balance a church background with pole dancing challenges stereotypes and sparks conversations about multidimensionality. As she continues to compete for the top prize, fans can expect her to deliver on her promise of entertainment and vulnerability.
