By Kenneth Oboh

De9jaspirit Talent Hunt (DTH) is back with a bang, and Season 4 is already turning heads. Nigerian rap heavyweight Vector tha Viper has officially joined the judging panel, stepping in to replace fellow music star Dr Sid. His inclusion signals a fresh wave of authenticity, artistry, and star power as the show enters its most competitive and dynamic season yet.

Vector, whose full name is Olanrewaju Ogunmefun, rose to fame in 2009 with his breakout single Kilode. The track marked the start of a career that would see him become one of Nigeria’s most respected rap voices. He followed up with his debut album State of Surprise in 2010 and went on to win multiple Headies Awards, including Best Rap Single and Lyricist on the Roll. Known for his poetic flow, punchline depth, and intellectual edge, Vector brings over a decade of music excellence, creative evolution, and industry experience to the DTH stage.

Returning judges include Nollywood actor IK Ogbonna, award-winning actress Ini Edo, and dance superstar Liquorose. Welcoming Vector to the panel, Ini Edo shared her excitement, calling him “a lyrical genius with a deep eye for raw talent.” Liquorose added, “He’s more than a rapper. He’s a storyteller. Contestants this season will have to dig deeper, perform smarter, and stand taller.”

Season 4 officially kicks off on September 7, 2025, with a record-breaking ₦40 million in total cash prizes up for grabs. The grand prize winner will walk away with ₦30 million, while the first and second runners-up will receive ₦7 million and ₦3 million, respectively. This marks the highest reward pool in the show’s history, reinforcing DTH’s mission to empower and uplift the next generation of African creatives.

Before the live shows begin, De9jaspirit Talent Hunt will hit the road for a thrilling national Campus Audition Tour, visiting top Nigerian universities including UNILAG, UNIBEN, UNIPORT, IMT Enugu, and UNIABUJA. These campus stops promise electrifying performances, surprise celebrity appearances, and powerful moments of discovery from Nigeria’s boldest young talents.

As part of the tour’s new competitive edge, DTH introduces the “DTH Campus Tour Best Audition Performance powered by Vent Africa”—a cash prize initiative celebrating the most outstanding talent at each campus. After each audition, fans will have 48 hours to vote on the DTH Mobile App for their top performance. The winning contestant from each campus will receive ₦500,000. After the tour, the five campus winners will battle for a ₦2 million grand cash prize, awarded to the contestant with the highest number of votes over a two-week free voting period on the app.

And it’s not just the contestants in the spotlight. Each audition stop will feature ₦1 million worth of audience games, rewarding fans with fun challenges, instant cash prizes, and exclusive branded giveaways, making every stop an immersive, high-energy experience.

Episodes will be broadcast on two major African entertainment networks. Soundcity TV will air the show every Tuesday at 8PM (DStv CH 327, GOtv CH 21), starting September 9, while Africa Magic Family will showcase weekly episodes every Saturday at 6PM (DStv CH 154, GOtv CH 2), beginning September 13. Fans can also stream the full season via the DTH mobile app, which features real-time voting, fan challenges, backstage exclusives, and chances to win merchandise, VIP invites, and cash rewards.

Now a continent-wide phenomenon, De9jaspirit Talent Hunt has evolved beyond a talent show. It’s a launchpad for visibility, opportunity, and real-life transformation. With Vector on board, an amplified prize structure, and an electrified campus tour, Season 4 is primed to deliver unforgettable moments, inspiring journeys, and the discovery of Africa’s next superstar.

This season, it’s not just about talent. It’s about legacy.