Yusuf Muhammad-Awal, popularly known as Yusuf, is a Nigerian actor, filmmaker, writer, model and farmer who gained wider recognition after joining Big Brother Naija Season 11 in 2026. He is from Kogi State and is based in Abuja, where he has pursued several creative and entrepreneurial interests.
Early life and background
Yusuf Muhammad-Awal was born on March 7, 2001 in Kogi State. His family roots is connected to both the Ebra and Igala ethnic groups. He later established himself in Abuja while developing his career in entertainment and business.
Career
Yusuf has built a diverse career across acting, filmmaking, writing, modelling and agriculture. His acting work includes appearances in productions such as Bank and Bond, Married to the Crown, Game of Trade, and Demand and Supply. He has also reportedly worked with filmmakers and actors including Ruth Kadiri, Toosweet Annan and Genevieve Edwin.
Yusuf Muhammad-Awal
Writing is another important part of Yusuf’s creative identity. He has reportedly authored three books, including Reflections of a Restless Mind, while also working as a scriptwriter and storyteller. His writing interests include themes around identity, history and human relationships.
Away from entertainment, Yusuf is involved in farming and entrepreneurship. He reportedly runs E & F Excellence Farm Limited, a fish and poultry farming business in Lokoja, Kogi State.
Personality and interests
Yusuf is portrayed as confident, energetic and unpredictable. He enjoys boxing, reading, writing and engaging in conversations, while singing is one of the talents he has identified as a lesser-known ability. He describes himself as someone who can be both trustworthy and self-focused, reflecting his awareness of the different sides of his personality.
Big Brother Naija
Yusuf became the 21st housemate introduced into Big Brother Naija Season 11. He entered the competition hoping to entertain viewers, build meaningful connections and use the platform to expand his public profile. His background as an actor and storyteller gave him an established connection to performance and entertainment before entering the house.
Personal life
Public profiles listed Yusuf as single when he entered BBNaija Season 11. He has also expressed an openness to finding love and described himself as someone who enjoys romantic connections.