Top 25 richest Nollywood actors and their net worth in 2021
The list of richest Nollywood actors tends to change year to year, as more and more new faces appear on the scene. Who has earned the title of the richest Nigerian star in 2021?
The success of the Nollywood film industry is credited to its talented filmmakers, scriptwriters, producers, directors, costume designers, make-up artists, and much more. The industry has proven to be a goldmine for established and upcoming actors in Nigeria and Africa at large.
So, who are the top richest Nollywood actors in 2021?
Top 25 richest Nollywood actors in Nigeria and their net worth
Here is the list of the richest actors and their net worth.
25. Alexx Ekubo - $1 million
Source: Instagram
- Born: 10 April 1986
- Age: 36 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Port Harcourt, Nigeria
- Spouse:
- Children:
- Occupation: Actor and model
Alexx is a Nollywood actor and model. He made it into the limelight after he ranked second at the 2010 Mr Nigeria beauty contest. In movies, Alexx Ekubo mostly plays the roles of detective, playboy, gold digger, among many others.
He has appeared in movies like The First Lady, The American King: As told by an African Priestess and Hot Girl Next Door.
His net worth is estimated to be $1 million.
24. Odunlade Adekola - $1 million
Source: Instagram
- Born: 31 December 1978
- Age: 43 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Spouse: Ruth Adekola
- Children:
- Occupation: Actor, singer, film-maker, producer and director
Odunlade Adekola is a well-known Yoruba actor, filmmaker, producer, and director who has appeared in several renowned Yoruba films.
Odunlade has produced and directed a number of films, and he recently finished construction on a multimillion-naira hotel in Ogun State.
Adekola has an estimated net worth of $1 million.
23. Nonso Diobi - $1 million
- Born: 17 July 1976
- Age: 46 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Enugu, Nigeria
- Spouse:
- Children:
- Occupation: Actor and film director
Nonso Diobi has had a magnificent journey in the film industry. He has made appearances in more than 200 movies since he joined Nollywood back in 2001.
The 45-year-old actor, director and model was born on July 17, 1976, in Enugu, Nigeria.
Nonso Diobi starred in movies like Makers of Justice, and Bafana Bafana. But, he made his big break when he was featured in the film Across the Bridge.
Diobi's net worth is estimated to be $1 million.
22. Segun Arinze - $1.5 million
Source: Getty Images
- Born: 24 September 1965
- Age: 56 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Onitsha, Nigeria
- Spouse: Anne Njemanze (Separeted in 2010), Julie Arinze (2008 to present)
- Children: Renny Njemanze
- Occupation: Actor and singer
Segun Arinze was the star of the film Black Arrow and former head of the Actors Guild of Nigeria. Those who watched the series Ripples would remember Richard Mofe-Damijo's role and Segun Arinze.
Arinze’s net worth is 1.5 million U.S. dollars.
21. Yul Edochie - $1.8-2 million
Source: Instagram
- Born: 7 January 1982
- Age: 40 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Lagos, Nigeria
- Spouse: May Yul-Edochie (2004 to present)
- Children: Kambi, Dani, Karl, and Victory Zane Chukwubuike Yul-Edochie
- Occupation: Actor and singer
Yul Edochie is an actor and model with a net worth of $2 million. He hails from the Anambra state in Nigeria. He is the son of the renowned actor Pete Edochie.
Yul Edochie made his big break in 2007 when he starred in the film Wind of Glory.
20. Olu Jacobs - $2.3 million
Source: Instagram
- Born: 11 July 1942
- Age: 79 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Spouse: Joke Silva (1989 to present)
- Children: Olusoji, Olugbenga, and Dayo Jacobs
- Occupation: Actor and film executive
Olu Jacobs, born Oludotun Jacobs, was born on July 11, 1942, in Abeokuta, Nigeria. He is among the most popular Nigerian Hollywood actors who have appeared in more than 100 films.
Olu Jacobs is also an international actor who has displayed unmatched talent, having starred in both Nollywood and British films. His current net worth is $2.3 million.
19. Kanayo O Kanayo - $2.5 million
Source: Instagram
- Born: 1 March 1962
- Age: 60 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Mbaise, Nigeria
- Spouse: Nneka Onyekwere
- Children: Uloaku Valerie Onyekwere, Kosisochukwu Montell Onyekwere, Einstein Onyekwere, and Clinton “Onye Eze Mbaise” Onyekwere
- Occupation: Actor and lawyer
Kanayo O Kanayo is a popular veteran actor born on March 01, 1952. He made his debut in the film industry in 1992 through the film, Living in Bondage; ever since he has starred in more than 300 films.
Kanayo O Kanayo's current net worth is $2.5 million. He appears among the top 20 richest Nollywood actors in Nigeria.
18. Emeka Ike - $3 million
Source: Instagram
- Born: 22 March 1967
- Age: 55 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Lagos, Nigeria
- Spouse: Suzanne Emma (Separated in 2017)
- Children:
- Occupation: Actor
Emeka Ike is a Nollywood actor who was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria. Emeka came into the limelight following his debut in the film, Deadly Affair which was released in 1997.
Apart from his acting career, Emeka Ike is immersed in the real estate business and has invested hugely. His current net worth is $3 million.
17. Zack Orji - $3 million
Source: Instagram
- Born: 1960
- Age: 62 years (as of 2022)
- Birthplace: Libreville, Gabon
- Spouse: Ngozi Orji
- Children: Leo’Nel
- Occupation: Actor, director, producer and filmmaker
Zack Orji, born Zachee Ama Orji, is a well-known Nollywood actor, director and producer. He was born in Libreville, Gabon. He was raised in three countries, Cameroon, Benin, and Togo. Therefore he can speak English and French fluently.
Zack Orji made his debut in the acting scene through his appearance in the film, Unforgiven Sin which was released in 1991. Zack has an estimated net worth of $3 million.
16. Sam Dede - $3 million
Source: Instagram
- Born: 17 November 1965
- Age: 56 years (as of 2022)
- Birthplace: Lagos, Nigeria
- Spouse: Tammy Sam-Dede (2001 to present)
- Children:
- Occupation: Film director, politician, lecturer, and veteran actor
Sam Dede is an actor and director but also doubles up as a politician and lecturer. He was born in the River State, Nigeria.
Sam Dede has appeared in numerous films taking up different parts and roles. He lectures at the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. His current net worth is $3 million.
15. Mike Ezuruonye - $3.5 million
Source: Instagram
- Born: 20 September 1982
- Age: 39 years (as of 2022)
- Birthplace: Lagos, Nigeria
- Spouse: Nkechi Nnorom (2010 to present)
- Children: Reynold Nkembuchim Ezuruonye
- Occupation: Actor
Mike Ezuruonye has been recognized in the Nollywood industry for his incredible talent. He was born on September 20, 1982, in Lagos State, Nigeria. Before his acting career, he was a banker.
He has appeared in numerous films and is popularly known for his role, especially when angry. His net worth is estimated to be $3.5 million.
14. Bovi Ugboma - $3.5 million
Source: Instagram
- Born: 25 September 1979
- Age: 42 years (as of 2022)
- Birthplace: Benin City, Nigeria
- Spouse: Kris Asimonye Ugboma (2007 to present)
- Children: Elena, David, and Chuchu Ugboma
- Occupation: Stand-up comedian, actor and writer
Bovi is one of the best comedians and actors in Nigeria. He made his acting debut in 2016 in the movie It's Her Day. He wrote and featured in the 2021 comedy movie My Village People.
He has a self-titled YouTube channel that currently has over 290k subscribers. His current net worth is approximately $3.5 million.
13. Osita Iheme - N1.2 Billion ($3.5 million)
Source: Instagram
- Born: 20 February 1982
- Age: 40 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Mbatoli, Nigeria
- Occupation: Actor, script writer, comedian, motivational speaker, and philanthropist
Osita Iheme is among the highest-paid actors in Nigeria. He rose to fame in 2003 after featuring as Pawpaw in the Aki Na Ukwa film. Performing alongside actor Chinedu Ikedieze saw them featuring in more movies as siblings and friends.
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, and the Honda NSX Sport car.
Some of his other notable assets are The Resident hotel and an $600,000 home in Owerri city, Imo State, Nigeria, and a Rolex Presidential Day-Date Oyster Perpetual watch costing around $40,000.
Although the actor has never confirmed his marital status to the public, some sources claim that he has a son and a wife called Noma.
12. Chinedu Ikedieze - N1.4 Billion ($3.6 million)
Source: Instagram
- Born: 12 December 1977
- Age: 44 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Amaeke, Nigeria
- Occupation: Actor, entrepreneur, and serial investor
- Spouse: Nneoma Ikedieze (2011 to present)
Chinedu Ikedieze encountered massive breakthrough in the Nigeria entertainment scene after featuring with Osita Iheme in the 2003 Aki Na Ukwa film as Aki. The duo never cease to amaze the audience in all movies they partner in.
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 Ccarrera 911, and 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 has 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 - N1.5 Billion ($3.7 million)
Source: Instagram
- Born: 15 July 1981
- Age: 40 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Lagos, Nigeria
- Spouse: Senami Ibukun Oluwa Togonu-Bickersteth (2014 to present)
- Occupation: Actor, model, and musician
After winning the Amstel Malta Box Office (AMBO) reality show, OC Ukeje featured in many award-winning films, includingTwo 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 a 2013 Nissan as the Best Lead actor at the NMAs. The actor keeps most of his assets private.
10. Pete Edochie - N1.6 Billion ($4 million)
Source: Instagram
- Born: 7 March 1947
- Age: 75 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Enugu, Nigeria
- Spouse: Josephine Edochie
- Children: Yul, Leo, Eva, Uche, Linc, and Gene Edochie
- Occupation: Actor and television personality
Chief Pete Edochie is one of the most talented actors in Africa. He worked for the Anambra Broadcasting C0mmission (now called the Eastern Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (ENBC)) before joining the film industry.
Pete's first film was, Things Fall Apart, in 1985. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to Nigeria's film industry, including the Industry Merit Award by Africa Magic.
Pete Edochie's net worth is about $4 million. The actor bought cars for his six children upon graduating from the university as a motivation for them to study. The legend is blessed with several grandchildren.
9. Nkem Owoh - N1.6 Billion ($4 million)
Source: Instagram
- Born: 7 February 1958
- Age: 64 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Udi, Nigeria
- Spouse: Ngozi Nkem Owoh (1998 to present)
- Children: 2 daughters
- Occupation: Actor, musician, comedian, and movie producer
Nkem Owoh began acting while studyig at the University of Ilorin. He became popular through the film, Osuofia in London, and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
Most Nigeria movie fans love his comedic roles. Nkem Owoh's net worth is around $4 million. Some of his assets are a Mitsubishi Montero SUV, a mansion in Enugu, and a Mercedes Benz 4matic.
The actor is married and once revealed his two daughters to the public once while doing an endorsement deal for MTN.
8. John Okafor - N1.7 Billion ($4.2 million)
Source: Instagram
- Born: 17 October 1961
- Age: 60 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Nkanu West, Nigeria
- Spouse: Stella Maris Okafor (2015 to present)
- Children: Emmanuel Mandela, Chelsea, and Jay Jay Okafor
- Occupation: Actor and comedian
John Ikechukwu Okafor is the funniest actor in Nollywood. He came to the limelight in 2004 after performing in a comedic film called, Mr Ibu. The actor has appeared in more than 200 movies.
John Okafor's net worth is around $4.2 million. Before fame and riches, he was a firewood seller, a hair dresser, and a meat butcher. He even lived with a friend in the slums of Lagos.
The actor's fans have spotted him driving a Mercedes Benz GLE, Lexus LX 570, 2015 Mercedes Benz C class, and BMW X6. He often shares images of his automobiles on social media. John and his wife lost their first son, Emmanuel Mandela.
7. Clem Ohameze - N1.8 Billion ($4.5 million)
- Born: 27 June 1965
- Age: 56 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Port Harcourt, Nigeria
- Spouse: Chinwe Esther Ohamenze
- Children: Stephanie and Skye Ohameze
- Occupation: Actor
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 to crash.
The incident left Clem with a severe injury. As a result, the actor took a break from the movie industry. He undergo surgery in November 2021 to regain full movement. Clem Ohameze's net worth is roughly $4.5 million.
6. Ramsey Nouah - N1.8 Billion ($4.5 million)
Source: Getty Images
- Born: 19 December 1970
- Age: 51 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Edo, Nigeria
- Spouse: Emelia Philips-Nouah (2002 to present)
- Children: Quincy, Desiree, and Camil Nouah
- Occupation: Actor and director
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 rose to fame after featuring in the 2010 romantic film called The Figurine.
Ramsey Nouah's net worth is around $4.5 million. His car collection has a 1959 Cadillac Coupe De Ville, Rolls-Royce Phantom, Aston Martin DBS superleggera, Tesla Model X, Range Rover Vogue 2012, and a Hummer H2 Stretch Limo.
5. Desmond Elliot - N2.1 Billion ($5 million)
Source: Instagram
- Born: 4 February 1974
- Age: 48 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Lagos, Nigeria
- Spouse: Victoria Elliot (2003 to present)
- Children: Denzel, Desmond Junior, Donald, and Dawn Elliot
- Occupation: Actor, director, and politician
Desmond Elliot has appeared in over two hundred films and some TV shows and soap operas. He was inaugurated as one of the lawmakers into the Lagos State House of Assembly 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. They other kids are two sets of twins (Denzel & Desmond and Donald & Dawn).
Desmond Elliot's net worth is about $5 million. The legend has several expensive automobiles in his collection, including owns a Toyota HiAce 2019, Toyota 4runner, Toyota Camry 2010, Range Rover Evoque, Ford Explorer 2020, Nissan Versa, and Vintage Mercedes Benz.
4. Kenneth Okonkwo - N2.1 Billion ($5 million)
Source: Instagram
- Born: 6 November 1968
- Age: 53 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Nsukka, Nigeria
- Spouse: Ogechi Ezekiel (m. 2000–2002), Ifeoma Okonkwo (2007 to present)
- Children: Ifeanyi and Chukwuchirimeze Okonkwo
- Occupation: Actor and real estate magnate
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 became one Nigeria’s best businessmen.
Kenneth Okonkwo's net worth of about $5 million grants him a slot on the list of the top 10 richest Nollywood male actors. He has two Rolls-Royce Phantom cars, a Nord Tank, and a Range Rover.
His first son, Ifeanyi, lives in South Africa with his mum, Ogechi Ezekiel. The actor's second son is Chukwuchirimeze. It took Kenneth and his current wife, Ifeoma, nine years to have him.
3. Chidi Mokeme - N2.9 Billion ($7 million)
Source: Getty Images
- Born: 17 March 1972
- Age: 50 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Anambra, Nigeria
- Spouse: Jean Olumba Mokeme (2012 to present)
- Children: Noah and Emem Daniel Mokeme
- Occupation: Actor and reality show host
Chidi Mokeme is among the richest actors in Nollywood, with about $7 million net worth. Besides acting, he makes money from event management, hosing 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 Mothers' Day. He later opened a boutique called GQ Warehouse in Lagos.
2. Richard Mofe Damijo - N2.9 Billion ($7 million)
Source: Getty Images
- Born: 6 July 1961
- Age: 60 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Aladja, Nigeria
- Spouse: May Ellen Ezekiel (Separated in 1996), Jumobi Adegbesan (2000 to present)
- Children: Oghenekome Mofe Damijo
- Occupation: Actor, writer, producer, lawyer, politician, and former journalist
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 is about $7 million. Fans have spotted him driving a 2014 Toyota High Lander, 2016 Range Rover sports, Toyota Land Cruiser, BMW 4 series coupe, Lexus LX 570, and Mercedes – Benz GLE. Images of these cars are on his social media pages.
1. Jim Iyke - N12.5 Billion ($30 million)
Source: Instagram
- Born: 25 September 1976
- Age: 45 years (as of May 2022)
- Birthplace: Libreville, Gabon
- Spouse: Dana Kinduryte
- Children: Harvis Chidubem Iyke
- Occupation: Actor, entrepreneur, and film producer
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.
Jim Iyke made his debut in Nollywood through the Last Flight to Abuja film. 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, a Camero SS Convertible, Mercedes G Wagon, Dodge Challenger, and a Range Rover Sports.
Who is the richest Nollywood actor in Nigeria?
The richest Nigerien actor is Jim Iyke, with a net worth of about N12.5 Billion ($30 million).
Who are the 10 richest Nollywood actors in Nigeria?
- Jim Iyke - N12.5 Billion ($30 million)
- Richard Mofe Damijo - N2.9 Billion ($7 million)
- Desmond Elliot - N2.1 Billion ($5 million)
- Ramsey Nouah - N1.8 Billion ($4.5 million)
- Clem Ohameze - N1.8 Billion ($4.5 million)
- John Okafor - N1.7 Billion ($4.2 million)
- Nkem Owoh - N1.6 Billion ($4 million)
- Pete Edochie - N1.6 Billion ($4 million)
- Okechukwu Ukeje - N1.5 Billion ($3.7 million)
- Chinedu Ikedieze - N1.4 Billion ($3.6 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 Nollywood actor?
Richard Mofe-Damijo is the highest-paid actor, with a 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.
These are the top 25 richest Nollywood actors in 2021 along with their net worth. Now you know the names of the most financially successful actors from Nigeria.
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