Frank Edoho Reveals He Earned Just ₦100,000 When He Started Hosting Who Wants to Be a Millionaire

Frank Edoho, the veteran host of Nigeria’s Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, has shared the modest beginnings of his television career.
He revealed that during his first two years on the show, he earned only around ₦100,000 per month while presenting a polished, high-profile image on air.
Speaking at a seminar and sharing a video on Instagram, Frank Edoho explained how he dressed and acted the part of a successful host despite his low salary.
He said the turning point came when MTN became the show’s sponsor, which allowed him to negotiate a better salary directly with the production company.
Frank Edoho recalled, “I gave my boss a figure, not expecting him to agree, but he accepted and even arranged three months’ back pay immediately.”
Beyond the higher salary, Edoho said the sponsorship opened more opportunities, allowing him to host events nationwide and travel extensively.
He also reflected on the challenges he faced, saying that setbacks were part of life and that focusing on long-term goals was key to overcoming difficulties.
Many Nigerians have reacted to his story online, comparing the ₦100,000 monthly pay in the mid-2000s to the high inflation and weaker naira today.
At the time, ₦100,000 was roughly $700 to $800, giving it much stronger purchasing power than it would today.
Edoho’s story has been celebrated as an example of perseverance and the value of negotiating for oneself.
He hosted the Nigerian version of the global franchise for over 13 years and remains one of the country’s most respected TV personalities.
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