“Why I hate my birth name,” BBNaija winner Phyna opens up

Winner of the Big Brother Naija ‘Level Up’ season, Phyna, has shared details of her difficult upbringing, revealing why she dislikes the name given to her at birth.

The reality television star disclosed in a recent interview that her real name is Blessing, but she has grown to resent it because her childhood experiences did not reflect the meaning of the name.

According to Phyna, growing up was emotionally challenging, as she often struggled to receive love and acceptance from those around her, including family members, friends and romantic partners.

She explained that the name felt disconnected from her reality, adding that her life at the time lacked the “blessings” the name symbolises.

The former BBNaija housemate described her upbringing as “crazy,” noting that she missed out on several opportunities and forms of support that many of her peers enjoyed while growing up.

Phyna said the constant search for affection frequently left her feeling rejected and subjected to verbal criticism.

“The name given to me by my parents is Blessing. My reason for hating that name was that I don’t see a sense of blessing in my life. It felt like I was always begging for love – family love, friendship, even in relationships. Even, in fact, dem don use am curse me,” she said.

Reflecting on her teenage years, the Edo-born reality star said she lacked many of the things young people usually receive from their parents and relatives.

Despite the difficulties, Phyna maintained that she was determined to change the narrative of her life.

She recalled often telling members of her extended family that she would one day become successful and appear on television, even when they doubted or mistreated her.

“As a teenager, there are things you could get from parents and family, but I didn’t have that. I knew for one that I was going to be big. Growing up, I would always tell my aunts, even when they beat or maltreated me, that they would watch me on television and I would have money,” she added.

Phyna eventually rose to fame after winning the BBNaija ‘Level Up’ season, becoming one of the most talked-about reality TV personalities in Nigeria.