Introduction
Anita Natacha Akide, professionally known as Symply Tacha, is one of Nigeria’s most influential media personalities, serial entrepreneurs, and philanthropists. Rising from humble beginnings in Port Harcourt to become a household name across Africa, Tacha has built an empire that extends far beyond her controversial Big Brother Naija appearance in 2019. With over 3 million Instagram followers, multiple successful businesses, and a loyal fanbase called the “Titans,” she represents the new generation of African influencers who have leveraged reality television into sustainable entrepreneurial success. This comprehensive biography explores her journey from the Port Harcourt First Daughter to a global brand.
Early Life and Family Background
Birth and Childhood
Anita Natacha Akide was born on December 23, 1995, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, making her 30 years old as of 2026. She was born into an Ijaw family of the Kalabari tribe, one of the ethnic groups indigenous to the Niger Delta region of southern Nigeria. Port Harcourt, the vibrant capital of Rivers State, played a significant role in shaping her identity, earning her the self-proclaimed title “Port Harcourt First Daughter.”
Tragic Loss: Becoming an Orphan
Tacha’s early life was marked by tragedy when she lost both of her parents at a young age. While she has kept specific details about her parents’ deaths private, she has mentioned in interviews that becoming an orphan shaped her resilience and determination to succeed. This personal loss fueled her drive to build a better life for herself and create generational wealth.
Ghanaian Heritage
Tacha’s mother was Ghanaian, giving her dual Nigerian-Ghanaian heritage. This connection helped her gain a significant following in Ghana during her Big Brother Naija stint, with Ghanaian celebrities like Moesha Boduong and Afia Schwarzenegger openly supporting her.
Siblings
Tacha has mentioned having siblings, including a younger sister whom she referenced during one of her famous altercations in the Big Brother house. However, she has largely kept her siblings out of the public eye, choosing to protect their privacy despite her celebrity status.
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Education Background
Primary and Secondary Education
Tacha completed her primary and secondary education in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. She attended local schools where she obtained her First School Leaving Certificate and West African Senior School Certificate. Even during her school years, she exhibited the bold, outgoing personality that would later become her trademark.
Tertiary Education
In 2012, Tacha gained admission to Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. There is some discrepancy in sources about her specific degree:
– Some sources state she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English Language in 2016
– Other sources indicate she studied Sociology
What is certain is that Tacha graduated in 2016 and was actively involved in the university’s drama club, participating in several stage plays and productions that nurtured her performance skills and love for entertainment.
Rise to Fame: The Social Media Journey
Early Instagram Career (2015-2017)
Before becoming a reality TV star, Tacha was building her presence as an Instagram influencer. In August 2015, she launched her YouTube channel, posting beauty tutorials, relationship advice, storytime videos, and lifestyle content. Her authentic, unfiltered approach to content creation resonated with young Nigerians.
By 2017, Tacha had organically grown her Instagram following to approximately 300,000-400,000 followers. She became known for:
– Her twerking videos
– Relationship and life advice content
– Her bold personality and confidence
– Her infamous **Davido tattoo** (DMW logo) on her chest, which she got out of admiration for the music superstar
The Davido Connection
Tacha’s tattoo of Davido’s DMW (Davido Music Worldwide) logo on her chest became one of her most talked-about features. When she posted a picture of the tattoo and tagged Davido, the superstar noticed, liked her post, commented, and followed her on Instagram. This moment significantly boosted her visibility and remains a defining part of her brand identity.
Business Acumen Before BBNaija
Even before reality TV fame, Tacha demonstrated entrepreneurial skills. She ran a business Instagram account through which she sold beauty products, power banks, and other items to her followers. In 2018, she launched her first major business venture, **”Everything Tacha,”** an online store selling fashion, beauty products, and electronics.
Big Brother Naija 2019: The Game Changer
Selection and Entry
In 2019, Tacha’s dream of appearing on Nigeria’s biggest reality show, Big Brother Naija, came true when she was selected as one of the housemates for Season 4, titled “Pepper Dem.” She entered the house on June 30, 2019, alongside other contestants including Mercy Eke, Mike Edwards, Seyi Awolowo, and others.
Personality in the House
Tacha described herself as “spontaneous, loud, interesting, lively, and fun,” and she lived up to this description throughout her time in the house. Her unfiltered personality, confidence, and refusal to back down from confrontations made her one of the most polarizing and talked-about housemates in BBNaija history.
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Major Controversies and Conflicts
The Mercy Eke Rivalry: The beef between Tacha and eventual winner Mercy Eke became one of the season’s biggest storylines. Their clashes were intense, with arguments over everything from food to personal hygiene, providing endless entertainment and debate material for viewers.
The Body Odor Controversy: One of the most damaging controversies during Tacha’s time in the house involved allegations about personal hygiene. Fellow housemates, particularly Mercy, made claims about Tacha’s body odor, which sparked massive debates online. Tacha’s fans (the Titans) vehemently defended her, while critics used it to attack her character.
Confrontations with Multiple Housemates: Tacha had heated exchanges with several housemates including Diane Russet (whom she called a “toddler” during an argument), Joe, and others. Her confrontational style divided viewers into strong supporters and equally strong critics.
The Disqualification (September 27, 2019)
On Day 89 of the competition, during what should have been the home stretch to the finale, Tacha was disqualified from Big Brother Naija following a physical altercation with Mercy Eke. The incident occurred in the early morning hours of September 27, 2019, when tensions between the two housemates escalated beyond verbal arguments.
Biggie (the Big Brother voice) announced her disqualification, making her the first housemate in BBNaija history to be disqualified for physical violence. The decision sent shockwaves through the Nigerian entertainment scene, with her massive fanbase expressing outrage while others supported Big Brother’s decision.
Fan Support Despite Disqualification
Remarkably, Tacha’s disqualification only strengthened her fanbase. The “Titans” rallied around her, trending multiple hashtags and demonstrating unwavering loyalty. Shortly after her exit:
– She received over ₦100 million in cash gifts from fans
– Her Instagram following skyrocketed from around 700,000 to over 1 million within days
– She became the first BBNaija 2019 housemate to get Instagram verification
– Celebrities including Davido showed public support
Tacha herself stated that she “remained the most talked-about housemate during the period of the show and after the show,” a claim supported by social media metrics and media coverage.
MTV’s The Challenge: Global Recognition
International Opportunity (2021)
In 2021, Tacha made history as one of two Nigerian reality stars (alongside Esther Biade) selected to compete on MTV’s The Challenge: Spies, Lies & Allies (Season 37), filmed in Croatia. This marked a significant milestone, representing Nigeria and Africa on one of MTV’s longest-running international reality competition series.
Competition Details
As a “Rookie” on the show, Tacha earned:
– $1,000 per week (approximately ₦480,000 at the time)
– $80,000 (approximately ₦38 million) just for participation
– Potential share of the $1 million prize if she advanced to the final
The Challenge brought together 17 American players and 17 international competitors in cutthroat physical and mental challenges.
Early Exit
Despite her competitive spirit, Tacha was eliminated on Episode 3 during a confrontation with Turkish competitor Berna Canbeldek. While her time on the show was brief, she maintained that she “loved every moment” and found the experience of competing on an international platform invaluable.
Drama with Tori Deal
Tacha’s elimination episode featured drama with veteran competitor Tori Deal, who Tacha felt had been disingenuous about their relationship. In a post-elimination interview on the “Watch With Us” podcast, Tacha expressed frustration that Tori pretended to be her friend while ultimately voting her into elimination.
Reunion Drama with Esther
At The Challenge reunion show in December 2021 (held in Amsterdam), Tacha and fellow BBNaija alum Esther Biade had a heated verbal confrontation. Tacha accused Esther of being a bad friend, citing that Esther had spoken negatively about her character in interviews after the show and failed to reciprocate social media support. The emotional exchange went viral in Nigerian media.
Entrepreneurial Empire
Everything Tacha (2018-Present)
Tacha’s flagship business venture, Everything Tacha, is a comprehensive online store offering:
– Fashion and clothing (including gym wear and loungewear)
– Beauty products and cosmetics
– Electronic accessories (power banks, phone accessories)
– Lifestyle products
The business leverages her massive social media following for direct-to-consumer sales and has generated millions in revenue.
NLNT (No Leave No Transfer)
NLNT is Tacha’s fashion brand that has evolved beyond just serving her fanbase (the Titans) to appeal to the general public. The brand offers:
– Workout and activewear
– Loungewear
– Accessories including bags, necklaces, and water bottles
– Streetwear with bold, statement designs reflecting Tacha’s personality
NLNT embodies Tacha’s philosophy of confidence and perseverance, with the name itself (“No Leave No Transfer”) representing commitment and dedication.
Everything Tacha Logistics (2020)
In December 2020, Tacha launched Everything Tacha Logistics, a delivery and courier service operating in major Nigerian cities including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. The Titans surprised her with a van and three dispatch bikes, which she used as seed capital to expand the business with additional vehicles.
This venture demonstrated her business acumen in diversifying beyond fashion and beauty into essential services with recurring revenue potential.
Brand Ambassador and Endorsement Deals
Tacha has secured numerous lucrative endorsement deals worth tens of millions of Naira:
Major Ambassadorships:
1. Ciroc Vodka (2019) – One of her biggest deals, representing the global alcoholic beverage brand in Nigeria and Africa for their Ciroc Circle Tour. She also launched her limited-edition line called “Tacha Fierce”
2. Royal Hair (2019) – Reportedly worth ₦15 million, making it one of the biggest deals in the brand’s history. Tacha famously threw shade at Mercy Eke (who was also a Royal Hair ambassador) by tweeting “SAME DEAL, BIGGER BAG”
3. House of Lunettes (2019) – Eyewear company ambassadorship. Remarkably, House of Lunettes reportedly sold over 2,500 glasses in just two hours after announcing Tacha’s partnership
4. GetFit Technologies – Nigeria’s leading fitness wearables solutions brand
5. OxfordBuildBay – RealTech company
Other Brand Partnerships:
– Tizeti (high-speed broadband internet provider across Africa)
– MyPaddi
– Kuda Bank
– Villa Games Hub
– Patricia
– Konga
– Spedy Weightloss
– Hype and Steam (UK high street online fashion store)
Her influencing power has made her one of the most sought-after brand ambassadors in Africa, with announcements of her deals featured in top newspapers, radio stations, and blogs across the continent.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Natacha Akide Foundation (NAF) – 2020
In 2020, Tacha founded the Natacha Akide Foundation (NAF) with a mission to serve underprivileged communities and address social issues affecting vulnerable populations in Nigeria.
Pad For Every Girl (PEG) Initiative
One of NAF’s flagship programs is Pad For Every Girl (PEG), which focuses on:
– Educating young girls about female hygiene and menstrual health
– Distributing free sanitary pads to girls from low-income families
– Breaking the stigma around menstruation
– Preventing school absenteeism due to lack of menstrual products
This initiative has impacted thousands of young girls across Nigeria, particularly in Rivers State and Lagos.
COVID-19 Relief Efforts
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Tacha’s foundation distributed food items and relief materials to families suffering economic hardship due to lockdowns. She used her platform to mobilize resources and bring attention to the hunger crisis affecting many Nigerian households.
Advocacy for Women’s Rights
Tacha is a vocal advocate for women’s rights and has spoken out against:
– Gender-based violence
– Discrimination against women
– Body shaming and cyberbullying
– Societal pressure on women’s appearances
Her unapologetic confidence and willingness to show her body (including stretch marks and her tattoo) has inspired many young women to embrace their imperfections.
Awards and Recognition
Tacha has won numerous awards recognizing her influence, entrepreneurship, and brand power:
2020 Awards
Scream Awards (August 2020):
– Brand Influencer of the Year
– Social Media Influencer of the Year
– Fashion Brand of the Year
Starzz Award:
– Emerging Celebrity of the Year
Africa’s Choice Awards:
– Female Celebrity of the Year (alongside international stars like Bonang Matheba)
– Brand Influencer of the Year
Net Honours:
– Most Popular BBNaija Star 2020
LaMode Award:
– Celebrity Entrepreneur of the Year
All Varieties Award:
– Social Media Influencer
– Brand of the Year (for Titans Collection)
Additional Recognition
– Featured on Nigerian Entertainment Today’s list of “Top 10 Hottest Female Celebrities of 2020”
– Recognized as one of the most influential non-winning BBNaija contestants
– First BBNaija 2019 housemate to receive Instagram verification
Personal Life and Relationships
Relationship Status
Tacha has generally kept her romantic life private, though details have occasionally emerged:
King Ladi: For several years, Tacha was in an on-and-off relationship with King Ladi. In November 2020, during an interview on Toke Makinwa’s “Toke Moments” YouTube channel, Tacha revealed that she had taken a break from the relationship because she wasn’t getting the needed attention from Ladi due to her busy career. They reportedly reconciled in November 2020, but their current status as of 2026 is unknown.
As of 2026, Tacha has not publicly confirmed being in any relationship and appears to be focused on building her business empire and brand.
Children
Tacha does not have any children as of 2026.
Personality and Lifestyle
Tacha is known for:
– Her bold, unapologetic personality
– Confidence and self-acceptance (proudly showing her stretch marks and tattoo)
– Strong work ethic and business orientation
– Loyalty to her fanbase (the Titans)
– Spontaneous and loud demeanor
– Love for fashion and beauty
She maintains an active lifestyle, promoting fitness through her GetFit endorsement and her gym wear brand.
The “Titans” Phenomenon
Fan Base Power
Tacha’s fanbase, known as the “Titans,” is one of the most organized and powerful celebrity fan communities in Nigeria. The Titans are known for:
– Fierce loyalty and willingness to defend Tacha against critics
– Trending hashtags and dominating social media conversations
– Contributing financially to Tacha’s success (the ₦100 million+ gifts post-disqualification)
– Organized support for her business ventures
– Gifting her with vehicles for her logistics business
Hashtag Campaigns
Popular Tacha-related hashtags include:
– #TachaXCiroc
– #SymplyTachaonYouTube
– #December4Tacha
– #TachaXDespiteMedia
– #Titans
– #PortHarcourtFirstDaughter
Net Worth and Financial Status
Estimated Net Worth (2026)
Tacha’s net worth is estimated to be between $300,000 to $800,000 (approximately ₦230 million to ₦615 million at current exchange rates). This represents significant growth from her pre-BBNaija days when she was just starting out as an influencer.
Sources of Income
1. Brand Endorsements: Multi-million Naira deals with Ciroc, Royal Hair, House of Lunettes, GetFit, and others
2. Business Revenue: Income from Everything Tacha, NLNT, and Everything Tacha Logistics
3. Social Media Influencing: Paid posts, sponsored content, and promotions on her 3+ million follower platforms
4. YouTube Monetization: Revenue from her YouTube channel (currently over 67,000 subscribers with 1.7+ million views)
5. Appearance Fees: Paid appearances at events, clubs, and brand activations
6. MTV Earnings: Income from her appearance on The Challenge
7. Public Speaking: Motivational speaking and panel appearances
Assets
Properties:
– In April 2020, Tacha revealed during an Instagram live with Peter Okoye (P-Square) that she purchased property in Port Harcourt, Rivers State
– On September 15, 2021, she announced buying her first multi-million Naira mansion in Lekki, Lagos, estimated to be worth over ₦50 million
Vehicles:
– Multiple luxury vehicles gifted by fans and purchased from her earnings
– Fleet of dispatch bikes and vans for her logistics company
Comparison with Mercy Eke
Interestingly, despite being disqualified, Tacha has built substantial wealth. However, BBNaija Season 4 winner Mercy Eke’s estimated net worth of $600,000 (as of 2022) remains higher than Tacha’s, demonstrating that winning the show provided additional financial advantages.
Controversies and Challenges
The Alleged Kidnapping Incident
Before her BBNaija appearance, Tacha gained public attention for allegedly staging her own kidnapping and release to gain recognition. She never confirmed nor denied these allegations, maintaining her silence on the matter.
Instagram Shadowban
During and after BBNaija, Tacha’s Instagram account was shadowbanned, causing her account to temporarily disappear from the platform. She appeared on former BBNaija housemate TBoss’s Instagram Live to explain that she hadn’t been banned but was shadowbanned due to mass reporting. Her account was restored days later.
Physical Hygiene Controversy
The body odor allegations in the BBNaija house remain one of the most controversial aspects of her reality TV experience. While her fans defended her fiercely, critics used the issue to attack her character. Tacha has addressed the issue indirectly by focusing on self-care and hygiene in her brand partnerships.
Rivalry with Mercy Eke
The Tacha vs. Mercy rivalry extended well beyond the BBNaija house, with both camps engaging in online battles. The rivalry has somewhat cooled over the years as both women have focused on their respective careers, though their fanbases occasionally reignite tensions.
Social Media Presence
As of 2026, Tacha maintains a massive social media presence:
– Handle: @symply_tacha
– Followers: 3+ million (grown from 20,000 before BBNaija)
– Content: Fashion, lifestyle, business promotions, motivational posts
– Engagement: High interaction rates with hundreds of thousands of likes per post
– Notable Followers: Nicki Minaj, Davido, and other international and local celebrities
Twitter/X
– Handle: @Symply_Tacha
– Followers: 1.1+ million
– Content: Thoughts, business updates, fan interactions
– Influence: Regularly trends on Nigerian Twitter
YouTube
– Channel: Bolajiogunmolatv / Symply Tacha
– Subscribers: 67,100+
– Total Views: 1.7+ million
– Content: Beauty tutorials, vlogs, life advice, behind-the-scenes content
– Profile: facebook.com/xessy.bill
– Page: facebook.com/officialsymplytacha
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Redefining Success After Reality TV
Tacha’s story is significant because she represents a new paradigm in reality television: that you don’t have to win to succeed. Despite her controversial disqualification, she has arguably become more successful and influential than many BBNaija winners, demonstrating that:
– Strong personal branding matters more than winning
– A loyal fanbase is invaluable
– Authenticity resonates with audiences
– Strategic business moves can multiply reality TV fame
Inspiration for Young Entrepreneurs
Tacha’s journey from orphan to multi-millionaire entrepreneur inspires countless young Nigerians, particularly women from disadvantaged backgrounds. Her message of self-confidence, hard work, and refusing to be defined by setbacks resonates strongly with Gen Z and Millennial audiences.
Port Harcourt Representation
As the self-proclaimed “Port Harcourt First Daughter,” Tacha has put her city on the map, proudly representing Rivers State culture and contributing to the city’s reputation in Nigerian pop culture.
Body Positivity Advocate
By confidently displaying her stretch marks, tattoo, and embracing her body despite critics, Tacha has become an unintentional body positivity advocate, encouraging young women to love themselves as they are.
Future Prospects and Goals
As of 2026, Tacha continues to:
– Expand her business empire across multiple sectors
– Grow her social media influence
– Engage in more philanthropic activities through NAF
– Explore opportunities in entertainment beyond reality TV
– Build generational wealth and inspire others
Her trajectory suggests she will remain a significant force in Nigerian entertainment and entrepreneurship for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How old is Symply Tacha?
Symply Tacha is 30 years old as of 2026. She was born on December 23, 1995.
2. What is Tacha’s real name?
Tacha’s real name is Anita Natacha Akide. She is professionally known as Symply Tacha.
3. Why was Tacha disqualified from Big Brother Naija?
Tacha was disqualified from Big Brother Naija Season 4 (Pepper Dem) on Day 89 (September 27, 2019) following a physical altercation with fellow housemate Mercy Eke. She was the first BBNaija contestant to be disqualified for physical violence.
4. What is Tacha’s net worth?
Tacha’s net worth is estimated to be between $300,000 to $800,000 (approximately ₦230 million to ₦615 million), earned through brand endorsements, businesses, social media influencing, and other ventures.
5. Is Tacha married or in a relationship?
As of 2026, Tacha has not publicly confirmed being married or in a relationship. She was previously in an on-and-off relationship with King Ladi but appears to currently be single and focused on her career.
6. Does Tacha have children?
No, Tacha does not have any children as of 2026.
7. What businesses does Tacha own?
Tacha owns multiple businesses including Everything Tacha (online fashion and beauty store), NLNT (No Leave No Transfer fashion brand), and Everything Tacha Logistics (delivery service operating in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt).
8. What is Tacha’s educational background?
Tacha attended Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where she graduated in 2016 with a degree in English Language (some sources say Sociology). She completed her primary and secondary education in Port Harcourt.
9. Who are the Titans?
The Titans are Tacha’s dedicated fanbase, known for their fierce loyalty, organized support, and willingness to defend her against critics. They have contributed financially to her success and helped build her brand through social media campaigns.
10. Did Tacha appear on MTV’s The Challenge?
Yes, Tacha appeared on MTV’s The Challenge: Spies, Lies & Allies (Season 37) in 2021, representing Nigeria and Africa alongside fellow BBNaija alum Esther Biade. She was eliminated in Episode 3 but earned significant income and international recognition from the appearance.
11. What is the Natacha Akide Foundation?
The Natacha Akide Foundation (NAF) is Tacha’s philanthropic organization founded in 2020 to serve underprivileged communities. Its flagship initiative, Pad For Every Girl (PEG), educates young girls about menstrual hygiene and distributes free sanitary pads.
12. What brands has Tacha endorsed?
Tacha has endorsed numerous brands including Ciroc Vodka, Royal Hair, House of Lunettes, GetFit Technologies, Kuda Bank, Patricia, Konga, MyPaddi, Tizeti, and many others.
13. Why is Tacha called Port Harcourt First Daughter?
Tacha calls herself “Port Harcourt First Daughter” because she was born, raised, and educated in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and proudly represents the city in all her endeavors.
14. Is Tacha richer than Mercy Eke?
As of available data, Mercy Eke (BBNaija Season 4 winner) has an estimated net worth of $600,000, which is higher than Tacha’s estimated $300,000-$800,000. However, both have achieved remarkable success post-BBNaija.
15. What awards has Tacha won?
Tacha has won numerous awards including Brand Influencer of the Year (multiple organizations), Female Celebrity of the Year (Africa’s Choice Awards), Social Media Influencer of the Year, Fashion Brand of the Year, Celebrity Entrepreneur of the Year, and Most Popular BBNaija Star 2020.
Conclusion
Symply Tacha’s journey from an orphaned girl in Port Harcourt to one of Africa’s most influential media personalities and entrepreneurs is a testament to resilience, strategic thinking, and the power of authentic personal branding. Despite the controversy of her Big Brother Naija disqualification, she transformed potential career-ending drama into a launching pad for extraordinary success.
Her story challenges conventional narratives about reality television success. She proved that winning isn’t everything—that building a loyal community, staying true to your personality, and making smart business decisions can create sustainable wealth and influence. The Titans’ unwavering support, combined with Tacha’s entrepreneurial acumen, has resulted in a multi-faceted empire spanning fashion, beauty, logistics, and social impact.
At 30 years old in 2026, Tacha represents the aspirations of countless young Africans who see entrepreneurship and digital influence as pathways to financial freedom. Her philanthropy through the Natacha Akide Foundation demonstrates that she hasn’t forgotten her roots or the struggles of others facing similar challenges she once faced.
Whether loved or criticized, Tacha’s impact on Nigerian pop culture and the influencer economy is undeniable. She remains a polarizing yet undeniably successful figure who has redefined what it means to leverage reality television fame into lasting entrepreneurial success. As she continues to expand her businesses and influence, the Port Harcourt First Daughter’s legacy as a trailblazer for African women in entertainment and business is firmly established.
Sources: Wikipedia, Legit.ng, TheCityCeleb, Symplytacha.com, Creebhills, ScreenRant, DNB Stories, MTV, BellaNaija
Disclaimer: Information in this article is compiled from multiple sources and reflects details available as of January 2026. Net worth figures are estimates based on publicly available information and may not reflect exact amounts. Tacha’s story continues to evolve, and updates will be made as new information becomes available.
