Former Big Brother Naija housemates and twin sisters Wanni X Handi have emerged as formidable forces in Nigeria’s competitive DJ industry, though their journey hasn’t been without obstacles. In a candid interview with Saturday Beats, Handi revealed the gender-based skepticism they’ve encountered while establishing themselves as respected disc jockeys.
“Definitely, there have been times men tried to look down on us, because they think we cannot play,” Handi disclosed, highlighting a persistent challenge for women in the male-dominated entertainment sector. “But, we are very amazing DJs, and when we step on stage, we show them that we know how to play this craft.”
The twins, who gained national recognition during their stint on the popular reality TV show Big Brother Naija, have successfully leveraged their platform to showcase their talents beyond television fame. Their transition into professional disc jockeying represents a significant career pivot that has required them to consistently prove their legitimacy in an industry often reluctant to embrace female talent.
“Also, we are not just DJs; we are entertainers,” Handi emphasized, pointing to their comprehensive approach to performance that extends beyond technical skills. This multifaceted entertainment philosophy has become their signature style, distinguishing them in Nigeria’s vibrant nightlife scene. “Regardless of the issues going on in the industry, my sister and I are thriving very well.”
The duo’s success arrives against a backdrop of traditional gender expectations within Nigeria’s entertainment industry, where women in technical roles often face additional scrutiny compared to their male counterparts. Industry observers note that female DJs frequently encounter assumptions about their technical capabilities, musical knowledge, and authenticity—challenges that Wanni X Handi appear to be confronting head-on through consistent performance excellence.
When discussing industry recognition, particularly at award ceremonies, Handi acknowledged progress while advocating for further inclusion. “I know of some award shows that have categories for DJs. They (award organisers) are doing well but more can still be done,” she remarked, suggesting that greater institutional recognition could help normalize women’s presence in technical entertainment roles.
Music industry analyst Olumide Adegoke notes that the twins’ visibility represents important progress: “What Wanni X Handi are accomplishing extends beyond their personal success. They’re helping reshape perceptions about who belongs behind the turntables in Nigerian entertainment. Their prominence challenges longstanding assumptions about gender and technical proficiency.
Central to the twins’ success is their remarkable synchronicity as performing partners. Handi explained their working dynamic, revealing the strength they draw from their connection: “There are times when our energies might not be at the same level, but we know how to lift each other up. We’re in sync, so if one of us is feeling down, the other picks up the slack. There’s never been a time our energy was so low that we couldn’t perform.”
This seamless partnership has become a professional advantage, allowing them to maintain consistent performance quality regardless of individual challenges. Wanni previously elaborated on their connection in another interview, saying, “She (Handi) is my soulmate and best friend. We’re in sync, both as dancers and DJs. We’ve created routines together that we perform over and over.”
Their journey from reality television contestants to respected DJs illustrates the evolving nature of entertainment careers in Nigeria’s digital age. The transition has required substantial dedication to mastering technical skills while simultaneously building a distinctive brand identity that sets them apart in a crowded field of talented performers.
Entertainment industry consultant Funmi Ogundele observes that their reality TV background has been both an advantage and challenge: “Coming from Big Brother gave Wanni X Handi immediate visibility, but in specialized fields like disc jockeying, that visibility comes with heightened scrutiny. They’ve had to work twice as hard to prove their legitimacy to audiences who might initially dismiss them as celebrities trying their hand at DJing rather than serious practitioners.
This additional pressure appears to have fueled rather than hindered their development, with the duo consistently refining their craft while expanding their performance repertoire. Club owners and event organizers have increasingly recognized their drawing power, booking them for high-profile events across Nigeria’s major entertainment hubs.
Their success represents part of a broader shift in Nigeria’s entertainment landscape, where women are increasingly claiming space in traditionally male-dominated technical roles. Fellow female DJs like DJ Cuppy and DJ Switch have similarly challenged industry norms, creating a more diverse ecosystem that better reflects the full spectrum of Nigerian talent.
Cultural commentator Abiola Solanke sees their prominence as significant beyond entertainment: “When young Nigerian women see Wanni X Handi commanding stages and crowds, it expands their vision of what’s possible. Representation in visible technical roles helps dismantle limiting beliefs about gender-appropriate career paths.”
As they continue building their brand, the twins remain focused on upcoming projects, with Handi encouraging fans to stay connected through social media for updates on new endeavors. Their journey illustrates how talent, perseverance, and authentic representation can overcome established barriers in entertainment.
The challenges they’ve faced and continue to navigate highlight persistent issues within Nigeria’s entertainment industry, yet their success offers a compelling counter-narrative about women’s capabilities in technical performance roles. By consistently delivering memorable performances despite skepticism, Wanni X Handi are not just advancing their own careers but potentially transforming industry attitudes for the next generation of female DJs.
