Nollywood stands as a remarkable treasure trove, as it consistently paves the path to success for its entrants.
This industry has bestowed wealth upon numerous individuals, ushering forth billionaires and multimillionaires across Nigeria and the broader West African region. As of 2023, the most affluent figures in Nollywood primarily comprise its pioneering luminaries.
Emerging talents in Nollywood are also thriving, with those who have devoted a decade to the industry often earning more on a monthly basis than doctors, engineers, or lawyers.
Nonetheless, it’s important to note that not every individual who embarks on an acting career in Nigeria attains instant success.
The world of acting stands as one of the most lucrative professions in Nigeria. Moreover, the wealth generated by Nollywood extends beyond its actors alone. Scriptwriters, producers, directors, costume designers, makeup artists, and numerous other professionals are achieving great success in this industry.
Below are the top 25 richest Nollywood actors and their net worth in 2023
25. Alexx Ekubo – N415.18 million ($1 million)
Alexx Ekubo is a Nollywood actor and model, he hailed from Porth Harcourt in Rivers State and was born on April 10th 1986 (36-year-old).
Alexx Ekubo catapulted to stardom when he secured the second position in the 2010 Mr. Nigeria beauty contest. In the realm of acting, he is predominantly recognized for his portrayals of characters such as detectives, playboys, boyfriends, and gold diggers.
Among his notable film credits are “The First Lady,” “The American King: As Told by an African Priestess,” and “Hot Girl Next Door.” In a turn of events, Alex Ekubo and Chigozie Fancy Acholonu decided to cancel their engagement and wedding plans in August 2021.
Alexx Ekubo boasts an estimated net worth of approximately $1 million. In April 2021, the actor acquired a Toyota Land Cruiser SUV, adding to his collection which already includes a 2012 Chevrolet Camaro sport convertible valued at N5.9 million. Furthermore, he exhibited his filial affection by gifting his mother a car in 2020.
24. Odunlade Adekola – N415.18 million ($1 million)
Odunlade Adekola is an actor, singer, Filmaker, producer and director as per occupation. He was born in Abeokuta Ogun State. He got married to Ruth Adekola in 2013 and by extension, they both have 4 children. He was born on December 31st 1978 (44-year-old).
The popular Yoruba actor features in both English and Yoruba films. Odunlade Adekola married Ruth in 2003. They have four sons who want to be actors in future, and the youngest is called Adedore Adekola. The actor has an estimated net worth of $1 million.
Odunlade Adekola owns a mansion in an affluent neighbourhood of Abeokuta, a multimillion-naira hotel in Ogun State and two luxury cars (one of his vehicles is a Range Rover Sport).
23. Nonso Diobi – $1 million
Nonso Diobi is a Nollywood actor and Film Director. He was born in Enugu State on 17th July 1976 (46-year-old).
Nonso Diobi embarked on his Nollywood journey in 2001, marking the commencement of a remarkable odyssey in the film industry. His breakthrough came with the 2001 film “Across the Bridge,” and since then, he has graced the screen in over 200 movies, including notable titles like “Makers of Justice” and “Bafana Bafana.”
Nonso Diobi’s estimated net worth stands at $1 million. The actor’s single status can be attributed to his highly mobile lifestyle, which reportedly affects his dating life. Some sources also suggest that he has a son. Despite owning a luxurious car, Nonso Diobi tends to keep a low profile and rarely showcases it on social media.
22. Segun Arinze – N622.77 million ($1.5 million)
Segun Arinze is a Nollywood actor and singer. He has six children. He is presently married to Julie Arinze. He was formerly married to Ann Njemanze. He was born in Onitsha on September 24th 1965 (57-year-old).
Segun Arinze, a prominent figure in Nollywood, once held the position of the head of the Actors Guild of Nigeria. He is widely recognized for his roles in notable works such as the film “Black Arrow” and the TV series “Ripples.”
Segun Arinze is a father to six children, born to three different women, including his ex-wife, Ann Njemanze. His children go by the names Morenike, Ayo, Femi, Victoria Ejiamatu, Ebunoluwa, and a daughter whose name remains private. With an estimated net worth of $1.5 million, Arinze enjoys the ownership of a robust and secure SUV fitted with burglary-proof features and resides in an impressive mansion.
21. Yul Edochie – N830.36 million ($2 million)
Yul Edochie is a controversial Nollywood actor and model. He has five (5) children. He is married to May Edochie and Judy Austin. He was born in Lagos, Nigeria on 7th of January 1982.
Yul Edochie is the son of renowned Nigerian actor Chief Pete Edochie. He made his mark in the entertainment world back in 2007 with his role in the film “Wind of Glory.” As a testament to his personal life, Yul Edochie is a proud father of five children and is in a polygamous marriage. He lost his first son Kambilichukwu Edochie to the cold hands of death in March 2023.
Yul Edochie’s net worth is around $2 million. He awarded himself with a Lexus SUV in 2021 after 16 years of hard work and has a 3-storey house in Lagos.
Yul Edochie owns Mercedes-Benz E-Class, 2003 Toyota Camry, 2007 Nissan Pathfinder, 2008 Honda Crosstour and Mercedes Benz GL450.
20. Olu Jacobs – 954.91 million ($2.3 million)
Olu Jacobs is a veteran music executive and actor. He has 3 children namely Olusoji, Olugbenga and Dayo Jacobs. He got married to Joke Silva in 1989. He was born in Abeokuta on 11th July 1942 (80-year-old).
Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs is one of the select Nigerian actors who have graced the screens of international cinema. His prolific career includes appearances in more than 100 Nollywood films and several British productions. Olu Jacobs’ estimated net worth stands at around $2.3 million. To commemorate his retirement, his wife, Joke Silva, presented him with a car. The couple, blessed with four children, has shared a remarkable journey together.
19. Kanayo O Kanayo – N1.03 billion ($2.5 million)
Kanayo O. Kanayo is veteran actor and Lawyer. The names of his children are; Uloaku Valerie Onyekwere, Kosisochukwu Montell Onyekwere, Einstein Onyekwere, and Clinton “Onye Eze Mbaise” Onyekwere. He is married to Nneka Onyekwere. He was born in Mbaise on March 1st 1962 (60-year-old.).
Kanayo O Kanayo marked his entry into Nollywood in 1992 with his role in the iconic “Living in Bondage” film, and since then, he has graced the screen in over 300 movies. His estimated net worth, standing at approximately $2.5 million, positions him as one of the top 20 wealthiest actors in the Nigerian film industry.
In 2018, Kanayo O Kanayo proudly showcased his N71 million Bentley Continental GT on social media, and notably, he complemented his luxury car with stylish purple attire.
18. Emeka Ike – N1.25 billion ($3 million)
Emeka Ike is a veteran Nigerian actor. He has four children. He separated from his wife in 2017. He was born in Lagos on March 22nd 1967 (55-year-old).
Emeka Ike rose to fame in 1997 following his debut film, Deadly Affair. He quit acting because he was unhappy with the developments in the industry. Emeka Ike and Suzanne Emma ended their marriage in 2017.
17. Zack Orji – N1.25 billion ($3 million)
Zack Orji is a veteran Nollywood actor, director, producer and filmaker. He is married to Ngozi Orji and has a child named Leo Nei. He was born in Libreville, Gabon in the yeae 1960. He is 62-year-old as at the year 2023.
Zachee Ama Orji is a versatile actor known for his fluency in both English and French. Born in Gabon, he spent his formative years growing up in Cameroon, Benin, and Togo. Zachee, often referred to as Zack, made his foray into the world of acting with his debut role in the 1991 film “Unforgiven Sin.”
Zack Orji’s estimated net worth is approximately $3 million. In a notable gesture of generosity, Prophet Joshua Iginla gifted Zack a luxurious SUV. Similarly, Larry Koldsweat received a Mazda, Funso Adeolu was presented with a Toyota Camry, and Fathis Balogun also received a Toyota Camry.
16. Sam Dede – N1.25 billion ($3 million)
Sam Dede is a Film director, politician, lecturer, and veteran actor. He got married to his wife Tammy Sam-Dede in 2001. He was born in Lagos on 17th November 1965.
Sam Dede, formerly a lecturer at the University of Lagos, has since taken up the role of a senior lecturer within the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Port-Harcourt in River State. With an estimated net worth of $3 million, he has earned recognition as one of Nigeria’s wealthiest and most influential actors. Sam Dede’s prolific career boasts appearances in over 350 films, solidifying his prominent status in the industry.
15. Mike Ezuruonye – N1.45 billion ($3.5 million)
He is an actor with 2 children. He got married to his wife Nkechi Nnorom in 2010. He was born in Lagos on September 20th 1982 (40-year-old.).
Mike Ezuruonye was a banker before becoming an actor. He is popularly known for his handsome looks and for exploding in anger while playing his roles. He underwent eye surgery after the harsh movie production lights made him develop a growth.
Mike met his wife, Keke Nkechi Nnorom, on a movie set in Abuja and married her on 13 November 2010. Before relocating to Nigeria to be with her husband, she was a medical psychologist in Canada.
The couple has two children, the eldest being Reynold Nkembuchim Ezuruonye. Mike Ezuruonye’s net worth is $3.5 million, and he loves vintage cars. However, some of his vehicles are gifts from friends. One of his cars is a Range Rover.
14. Bovi Ugboma – N1.45 billion ($3.5 million)
He is a standup comedian actor and writer. The names of his children include Elena, David, and Chuchu Ugboma. He got married to his wife Kris Asimonye Ugboma in 2007. He was born in Benin City on September 25, 1979 (43-year-old).
Bovi is widely acknowledged as one of Nigeria’s top comedians and actors, managing his own YouTube channel. He stepped into the world of acting with his debut in the 2016 film “It’s Her Day.” Additionally, he penned and appeared in the 2021 comedy film titled “My Village People.”
Bovi Ugboma’s net worth is approximately $3.5 million. He owns a one-story duplex situated in Banana Island, Victoria Island, Lagos state.
He drives Toyota Prado, Hyundai Sonata, Ford Unlimited, G WAGON Lexus and Range Rover.
13. Osita Iheme – N1.45 billion ($3.5 million)
He is an Actor, scriptwriter, comedian, motivational speaker, and philanthropist. He was born at Mbatoli in Nigeria on February 20th 1982. He is 40-year as at 2023.
Osita Iheme is among the highest-paid actors in Nigeria, and he rose to fame in 2003 after featuring as Pawpaw in the Aki Na Ukwa film. Performing alongside actor Chinedu Ikedieze saw them featured as siblings and friends in more movies. Besides acting, Osita owns a youth empowerment organization called Inspired Movement Africa. Osita Iheme’s net worth is about $3.5 million.
He drives posh cars like Toyota Harrier, Land Rover LR3, Honda NSX Sport car. Some of his other notable assets are The Resident hotel A $600,000 home in Owerri City, Imo State, Nigeria A Rolex Presidential Day-Date Oyster Perpetual watch worth $40,000.
Although the actor has never confirmed his marital status to the public, some sources claim he has a son and a wife called Noma.
12. Chinedu Ikedieze – N1.49 billion ($3.6 million)
He is an Actor, entrepreneur, and serial investor. He is married to Nneoma Ikedieze (2011 to present). He was born at Amaeke, Nigeria on December 12th 1977 (45-year-old).
Chinedu Ikedieze achieved a significant breakthrough in the Nigerian entertainment industry when he starred alongside Osita Iheme in the 2003 film “Aki Na Ukwa,” portraying the character of Aki. Their dynamic partnership continues to captivate and delight audiences in all the movies they collaborate on.
Chinedu Ikedieze’s net worth is about $3.6 million, and he is the GLO Ambassador. His car collection has grand machines like: Hummer Stretch Limousine Infiniti Jeep FX Toyota Camry Porsche Carrera 911 Mercedes Benz E300.
Chinedu also owns houses in Abia State, an exquisite lounge in Surulere, a travelling agency, the Nizik fashion label, and a football academy. SomeHe and Nigerian fashion designer Nneoma Nwaijah had a traditional marriage at Isala Mbano in Imo State (Nneoma’s hometown) on 26 November 2011. The couple does not have a child but would love to have three.
11. Okechukwu Ukeje – N1.53 billion ($3.7 million)
He is an Actor, model, and musician. He is married to Senami Ibukun Oluwa Togonu-Bickersteth (2014 to present). He was born in Lagos the 15th July 1981 (40-year-old).
After winning the Amstel Malta Box Office (AMBO) reality show, OC Ukeje featured in many award-winning films, including Two Brides and a Baby, Hood-rush, Alan Poza, Confusion Na Wa, and Half of a Yellow Sun. OC Ukeje’s net worth is around $3.7 million.
His first car was a 2006 Chevrolet Optra with a Toyota Engine, and the first time he drove it was to the University of Lagos to see his girlfriend. The car once stopped on the road, and he helplessly stood there as people honked at him.
Ukeje did not know he had run out of fuel and felt embarrassed because he was just rising to fame. He won a 2013 Nissan as the Best Lead actor at the NMAs. The actor keeps most of his assets private.
10. Pete Edochie – N1.66 billion ($4 million)
Pete Edochie is a veteran actor and television personality. His children names include, Yul, Leo, Eva, Uche, Linc, and Gene Edochie. He is married to Josephine Edochie. He was born in Enugu State Nigeria on March 7, 1947 (76-year-old).
Chief Pete Edochie stands as one of Africa’s most exceptional acting talents. Prior to venturing into the film industry, he dedicated his service to the Anambra Broadcasting Commission, now known as the Eastern Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (ENBC). His cinematic journey began with the iconic film “Things Fall Apart” in 1985.
Pete Edochie’s indelible contributions to Nigeria’s film industry have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Industry Merit Award from Africa Magic. With an estimated net worth of approximately $4 million, he has manifested his generosity by gifting cars to each of his six children upon their university graduation. Additionally, Chief Pete Edochie revels in the joys of being a grandparent.
9. Nkem Owoh – N1.66 billion ($4 million)
He is an Actor, musician, comedian, and movie producer. He has 2 daughters. He is married to Ngozi Nkem Owoh (1998 to present). He was born in Udi Nigeria on February 7th 1958 (64-year-old).
Nkem Owoh began acting while studying at the University of Ilorin. He became famous through the film, Osuofia in London and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Most Nigerian movie fans love his comedic roles. The actor is married and once revealed his two daughters to the public while doing an endorsement deal for MTN. Nkem Owoh’s net worth is around $4 million.
Some of his assets are a Mitsubishi Montero SUV, A mansion in Enugu, a Mercedes Benz 4matic.
Nkem Owoh who is also known as Osuofia recently lost his second daughter Kosisochukuwu at the age of 24.
8. John Okafor – N1.74 billion ($4.2 million)
John Ikechukwu Okafor, renowned for his comedic prowess, is celebrated as the funniest actor in Nollywood. His journey to stardom began in 2004 when he gained widespread recognition for his role in the comedic film “Mr. Ibu.” With an impressive filmography encompassing over 200 movies, John Okafor has earned an estimated net worth of approximately $4.2 million.
Before attaining fame and fortune, he navigated various vocations, including selling firewood, working as a hairdresser, and even serving as a meat butcher. At one point, he resided in the slums of Lagos with a friend. Tragically, John and his wife experienced the loss of their firstborn son, Emmanuel Mandela.
The actor frequently shares images of his automobiles on social media, offering a glimpse into his well-deserved success.
Fans have spotted him driving a: Mercedes Benz GLE Lexus LX 570 2015 Mercedes Benz C class BMW X6.
7. Clem Ohameze – N1.87 billion ($4.5 million)
Clem Ohameze joined the Nollywood film industry in 1995, and a movie called End Time made him a household name countrywide three years later.
He has appeared in several award-winning movies and has two children with his wife, Chimwe Esther Ohameze. Some people attacked the actor in 2007 while vying for a political seat. They shot and killed his cousin and made his car crash.
The incident left Clem with a severe injury. As a result, the actor took a break from the movie industry. He underwent surgery in November 2021 to regain full movement. Clem Ohameze’s net worth is roughly $4.5 million.
6. Ramsey Nouah – N1.87 billion ($4.5 million)
Ramsey Nouah was born to an Israeli father and a Nigerian mother from Owo in Ondo State. He has gained the reputation of a lover boy because of his romantic roles.
The actor and director have 3 children named Quincy, Desiree, and Camil Nouah. He married his wife Emelia Philips-Nouah in 2002.
The actor rose to fame after featuring in the 2010 romantic film The Figurine. Ramsey Nouah’s net worth is around $4.5 million.
His car collection has 1959 Cadillac Coupe De Ville Rolls-Royce Phantom Aston Martin DBS superleggera Tesla Model X Range Rover Vogue 2012 Hummer H2 Stretch Limo.
5. Desmond Elliot – N2.07 billion ($5 million)
Desmond Elliot is among the most handsome Nigerian actors. He has appeared in over two hundred films and some TV shows and soap operas. The actor was inaugurated as one of the Lagos State House of Assembly lawmakers in June 2015. Desmond was still acting while performing his political duties. The actor and his wife Victoria are proud parents of Donald and his four siblings.
The other kids are two sets of twins (Denzel & Desmond and Donald & Dawn). Desmond Elliot’s net worth is about $5 million, and has several expensive automobiles in his collection, including;
Toyota Hiace 2019, Toyota 4runner, Toyota Camry 2010, Range Rover Evoque, Ford Explorer 2020, Nissan Versa, Vintage Mercedes Benz.
4. Kenneth Okonkwo – N2.07 billion ($5 million)
Kenneth Okonkwo is popularly known for the Nollywood movie, Living in Bondage, where he played the role of Andy Okeke. His father died when he was 16, but he pressed on to become one of Nigeria’s best businessmen.
Kenneth Okonkwo’s family includes his first son, Ifeanyi, who resides in South Africa with his mother, Ogechi Ezekiel. The actor’s second son is named Chukwuchirimeze, and his arrival was a cherished moment that took nine years to materialize with his current wife, Ifeoma.
With a net worth estimated at $5 million, Kenneth Okonkwo has rightfully secured a place among the top 10 wealthiest actors in Nollywood. He proudly owns an impressive collection of vehicles, including two Rolls-Royce Phantom cars and a Nord Tank Range Rover.
3. Chidi Mokeme – N2.91 billion ($7 million)
Chidi Mokeme is among the richest actors in Nollywood, with about $7 million net worth. Besides acting, he makes money from event management, hosting TV shows, and brand endorsements.
Mokeme hosted the Gulder Ultimate Search reality show. In 2015, the actor bought his wife a new Range Rover worth N20 million on Mother’s Day. He later opened a boutique called GQ Warehouse in Lagos.
Apart from being an actor, Chidi Mokeme is also known as a host. He married his wife Jean Olumba Mokeme in 2012. He has 2 children named Noah and Emem Daniel Mokeme. He was born in Anambra on March 17, 1972.
2. Richard Mofe Damijo – N2.91 billion ($7 million)
He is an Actor, writer, producer, lawyer, politician, and former journalist. Richard Mofe Damijo is a father of five beautiful children. His eldest son Oghenekome is from his first wife May-Ellen Ezekiel, and his younger four children are from his second wife Jumobi Adegbesan. Richard Mofe Damijo and family are incredibly friendly and loving.
RMD was born in Aladja Nigeria on July 6th 1961. He is 61 years old.
Richard Eyimofe Evans Mofe-Damijo (alias RMD) has received many accolades for his excellent acting performances. The Delta State Governor appointed him as the commissioner of culture and tourism in 2009 upon joining politics.
Richard Mofe-Damijo’s net worth of about $7 million makes him the second richest actor in Nigeria. Images of some of Richard’s cars are on his social media pages.
Fans have spotted him driving a: 2014 Toyota High Lander, 2016 Range Rover sports, Toyota Land Cruiser, BMW 4 series coupe, Lexus LX 570, Mercedes – Benz GLE.
1. Jim Iyke – N12.46 billion ($30 million)
He is an Actor, entrepreneur, and film producer. According to information provided by the actor in a 2021 interview with Chude Jideonwo, Jim Iyke is currently a father of three children. He said, “I have had a failed marriage but nobody knows that. I have three kids. I caused my marriage to fail. Jim Iyke was married to Dana Kinduryte, a Lithuanian lawyer .
James Ikechukwu Esomugha (alias Jim Iyke) tops the list of the richest Nollywood actors, with a $30 million net worth. He is the only son in a family of eight children, and his debut film in Nollywood was Last Flight to Abuja.
He starred alongside actors Hakeem Kae-Kazim and Omotola Jalade Ekeinde. Jim Iyke has won various awards as an actor, made business investments, and also makes more money as a producer.
Some of Jim Iyke’s machines are Chevrolet Camaro, Plymouth Prowler Convertible, Camero SS Convertible, Mercedes G Wagon, Dodge Challenger, and Range Rover Sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the richest Nollywood actor in 2023?
The wealthiest Nigerian actor is Jim Iyke, with a net worth of N12.5 Billion ($30 million).
How much do Nollywood actors get paid?
Nollywood actors are paid between N200,000 and N400,000 per film.
Who is the highest-paid actor in Nollywood?
Richard Mofe-Damijo is the highest-paid actor, with an N2 million pay rate per movie.
Who is the richest Nigerian actress?
Genevieve Nnaji is Nigeria’s richest actress, with a $10 million estimated net worth.
Who is the richest actor in the world?
Tyler Perry is the wealthiest actor worldwide, with a $1 billion net worth.
