FRANK EDOHO OPENS UP ON LOW EARLY SALARY DESPITE LUXURY ON-AIR IMAGE
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By: Balogun Ibrahim
Frank Edoho, longtime host of Nigeria’s Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, has reflected on his early earnings on the show, revealing that he earned a modest salary in its initial years while maintaining an on-screen image of wealth and success.
Speaking at a seminar in a video shared on his Instagram page on Tuesday, Edoho recalled presenting the show with a polished, affluent appearance despite relatively low pay.
“On Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, the first two years of my salary per month was a hundred and something thousand naira. But I had to wear a suit as if I owned all the money,” he said.
He explained that his income improved significantly after telecom company MTN came on board as a sponsor, giving him leverage to renegotiate his contract.
Edoho said he approached the production company’s owner directly with a new salary proposal.
“When MTN came on, I just said, let me just give a figure to my boss… He said, ‘How much are you going to be paying?’”
Although he did not reveal the exact amount he requested, he noted that the offer was substantial and, to his surprise, was accepted along with three months’ back pay.
“Once I mentioned the figure, okay, we’ll give you three months’ back pay,” he recounted, adding that he immediately agreed to the deal.
Following the pay increase, Edoho said new opportunities followed, including frequent hosting gigs and increased travel engagements.
“The rewards came in. I was hosting events all over the place. I was flying and doing all kinds of things,” he said.
He also reflected on the personal discipline required during his early struggles, noting the importance of focus amid challenges.
“Although my life had some ups and downs and everything… learn how to compartmentalise and just push it aside, concentrate your eyes on the prize,” he said.
The revelation has sparked widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians comparing the value of over ₦100,000 monthly in the mid-2000s to today’s economic realities shaped by inflation and naira depreciation.
Others praised Edoho’s negotiation strategy and “fake it till you make it” approach, highlighting his career longevity.
Edoho hosted the Nigerian edition of the global franchise for over 13 years and remains one of the country’s most recognisable television personalities.
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