The Nigerian film industry known as Nollywood has produced many talented actors and actresses over the years. In addition to their on-screen achievements, some Nollywood celebrities have also become positive role models for their fans, both in Nigeria and beyond.
Glamsquad highlights 15 Nollywood actors and actresses who have distinguished themselves as good role models through their personal lives, community involvement, and philanthropic activities.
Olu Jacobs
Olu Jacobs is a veteran Nollywood actor who has been active in the industry for over four decades. He was born Oludotun Jacobs on July 11, 1942, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. He began his acting career in the 1970s when he joined the National Theatre of Nigeria after graduating from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London.
Olu Jacobs is widely respected in the Nigerian film industry and beyond, both for his acting talent and his contributions to the growth and development of the industry. He is regarded as one of the pioneers of Nollywood and a true icon of Nigerian cinema.
He is known for his versatility as an actor, having played diverse roles in numerous movies and TV series. Some of his notable works include “The Dog and the Jewel Thief,” “Egg of Life,” “Mirror in the Sun,” and “The Royal Hibiscus Hotel.”
Apart from his acting career, Olu Jacobs is also known for his philanthropic activities. He is the co-founder of the Lufodo Group, a media, entertainment, and real estate company that has contributed to the development of the Nigerian film industry. Jacobs and his wife, Joke Silva, also run the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, which provides training and mentorship to aspiring actors and actresses in Nigeria.
He has received several awards and recognitions for his contributions to the Nigerian film industry, including the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards.
Sola Sobowale
Sola Sobowale, also known as “Toyin Tomato,” has been active in Nollywood for over 20 years after she began her acting career in the early 1990s.
Born on 26th December 26, 1965, in Ogun State, Nigeria, Sobowale is known for her dynamic and versatile acting skills and has appeared in numerous movies and TV series. Some of her notable works include “Asewo to Re Mecca,” “The Wedding Party,” “King of Boys,” and “Diamond Ring.” She gained popularity when she acted in Wale Adenuga’s TV drama series, Oh Father, Oh Daughter in 2001.
In addition to her acting career, Sola Sobowale is also known for her philanthropic activities. She has supported various charitable causes over the years, including the fight against breast cancer and the education of underprivileged children.
She is widely respected and regarded as one of the most talented and iconic actresses in Nollywood history. Her dedication to her craft and her contributions to the growth and development of the industry has earned her a special place in the hearts of many Nigerians and fans of Nollywood around the world.
Kanayo O. Kanayo
Kanayo O. Kanayo whose real name is Anayo Modestus Onyekwere was born on 1st March 1, 1962, in Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria. He has been active for over three decades in the industry.
Kanayo O. Kanayo is known for his remarkable talent as an actor, and his ability to bring depth and complexity to the characters he portrays on screen. He has appeared in numerous movies over the years, including “Living in Bondage,”
Aside from his acting career, Kanayo O. Kanayo is a lawyer. He officially became a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria called to the Nigerian Bar on 15 September 2020.
He is also known for his philanthropic activities. He is the founder of the Kanayo O. Kanayo Foundation, which provides educational scholarships to underprivileged children in Nigeria. He is also an advocate for the promotion of education and the fight against illiteracy.
Joke Silva
Joke Silva born as Ajoke Silva is a and actress, director, and producer who has been active in the Nigerian entertainment industry for over three decades. She was born on
Born on the 29th of September 1961, in Lagos State, Nigeria. Joke Silva is known for her exceptional talent and won several awards to her credit.
She is the co-founder of the Lufodo Group, a media, entertainment, and real estate company that has contributed to the growth and development of the Nigerian film industry. Silva and her husband, Olu Jacobs, also run the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, which provides training and mentorship to aspiring actors and actresses in Nigeria.
In addition to her contributions to the Nigerian film industry, Joke Silva is also a vocal advocate for women’s rights and gender equality in Nigeria. She has been involved in various initiatives to promote women’s empowerment and has spoken out against gender-based violence and discrimination.
Kate Henshaw
Kate Henshaw is a force to reckon with and has been active for over two decades. She was born on July 19,
Henshaw was born on 19th July 1971, in Cross River State, Nigeria. is known for her dynamic and versatile acting skills and has appeared in numerous movies and TV series
In addition to her acting career, Kate Henshaw is also a fitness enthusiast and a humanitarian. She is the founder of the Kate Henshaw Fitness (KHF) program, which promotes healthy living and fitness in Nigeria. She is also a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and has been involved in various initiatives to promote maternal health and prevent gender-based violence in Nigeria.
Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde
Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, also known as Omosexy, is an actress, singer, and philanthropist. She was born on 7th February 1978, in Lagos, Nigeria.
Omotola made her acting debut in the 1995 movie “Venom of Justice” and has since appeared in over 300 movies in Nollywood.
In addition to her acting career, Omotola is also a successful singer and has released several albums, including “Gba” and “Me, Myself, and Eyes.” She is also a humanitarian and activist and has been involved in various initiatives to promote health and education in Nigeria. She is the founder of the Omotola Youth Empowerment Programme (OYEP), which provides support and mentorship to young people in Nigeria.
RMD
Richard Eyimofe Evans Mofe-Damijo,, often referred to as RMD, was born on July 6, 1961, in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria.
RMD made his acting debut in the Nigerian soap opera “Ripples” in the late 1980s and has since appeared in numerous movies and TV series. He has proven to be a good role model in society. He was the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State, Nigeria, from 2009 to 2015.
Funke Akindele
Funke Akindele, better known as Jenifa has proven to be the ideal model for young ladies in the society.
The 46-year-old mother of two first gained recognition for her role in the TV series “I Need to Know” in the late 1990s. She is best known for her lead role in the hit comedy series “Jenifa’s Diary,” which she created, wrote, produced, and starred in. The series has won several awards, including the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for Best TV Comedy Series in 2017 and 2018.
In addition to her TV roles, Funke Akindele has also appeared in numerous movies, including “Omo Ghetto,” “Maami,” and “A Trip to Jamaica.” She has won several awards for her acting roles, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role in 2009.
Funke Akindele is also a philanthropist and has been involved in various initiatives to empower young people and promote education and health in Nigeria. She is the founder of the Jenifa Foundation, which provides support and mentorship to young people in Nigeria.
She currently holds the position of Box Office Queen as her latest movie ‘Battle on Buka Sreeet’ is the highest-grossing in cinemas.
Ramsey Nouah
Ramsey Nouah often tagged as Nollywood lover boy was born on December 19, 1970, in Edo State, Nigeria.
He began his acting career in Nigeria in the early 1990s and has since appeared in numerous Nollywood movies, becoming one of the most sought-after actors in the industry. He has also directed and produced movies, including the critically acclaimed movie “Living in Bondage: Breaking Free,” which was released in 2019.
He has won several awards and nominations for his acting roles, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2010. Nollywood around the world.
Genevieve Nnaji
Genevieve Nnaji is a Nigerian actress, producer, and director. She was born on May 3, 1979, in Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria.
The mother of one began her acting career in the late 1990s and has since appeared in numerous Nollywood movies. She has won several awards and nominations for her acting roles, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role in 2005 and 2010.
In 2018, she produced and starred in the movie “Lionheart,” which was acquired by Netflix and became the first Nigerian movie to be featured on the streaming platform. She also directed the movie “Road to Yesterday” in 2015.
Pete Edochie
The list of role models in the society wouldn’t be complete without Pete Edochie’s name. The veteran actor and filmmaker was born on March 7, 1947, in Enugu, Nigeria. He is best known for his roles in numerous Nollywood movies, where he often portrays the role of a wise and respected elder.
Pete Edochie started his acting career in the 1960s and has since featured in several movies and TV series. He is highly respected for his talent and is considered one of the pioneers of Nollywood.
In addition to his acting career, Pete Edochie has also been involved in various humanitarian causes. He is a UN Ambassador for Peace and has used his platform to advocate for peace, unity, and social justice in Nigeria and beyond.
Pete Edochie is widely regarded as a role model in Nigeria and is highly respected for his wisdom, talent, and contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry and society as a whole.
Mercy Johnson-Okojie
Mercy Johnson-Okojie was born on August 28, 1984, in Lagos, Nigeria. She started her acting career in 2003 and has since become one of the most successful and sought-after actresses in Nollywood.
Mercy Johnson-Okojie has starred in numerous Nollywood movies and TV series and has won several awards for her outstanding performances. She is known for her versatility as an actress and her ability to play a wide range of roles, from serious dramas to romantic comedies.
The mother of four is also involved in various humanitarian causes. She is an ambassador for several organizations, including the Nigerian Water Supply Association, the National Democratic Institute, and the World Health Organization.
Mercy Johnson-Okojie is widely regarded as a role model in Nigeria and beyond. She is respected for her talent, hard work, and dedication to her craft, as well as her philanthropic work and advocacy for social change. She is a positive influence on many young people in Nigeria and is considered one of the most inspiring women in Nollywood.
Kunle Afolayan
Kunle Afolayan, a filmmaker and actor is one of the most respected and accomplished directors in Nollywood.
The 49-year-old has directed and produced several award-winning movies, including “The Figurine”, “Phone Swap”, and “October 1”. His movies are known for their high production value, compelling storylines, and strong cultural and social messages.
Kunle Afolayan is known for his commitment to preserving and promoting Nigerian culture through his movies. He is passionate about telling African stories and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria on the global stage. His talent, creativity, and dedication to his craft are top-notch.
Kemi Adetiba
Although she doesn’t appear in movies, Kemi Adetiba is a force to reckon with in the entertainment industry.
The 43-year-old began her career as a radio presenter before moving on to become a music video director. She has directed several award-winning music videos for top Nigerian artists such as Wizkid, Olamide, and Tiwa Savage.
In 2016, Kemi Adetiba made her feature film directorial debut with “The Wedding Party”, a romantic comedy that became one of the highest-grossing Nigerian films of all time. She went on to direct the sequel, “The Wedding Party 2: Destination Dubai” “King of Boyz” and its sequel.
Kemi Adetiba is known for her creativity, attention to detail, and her ability to tell compelling stories. She has won several awards for her work, including the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, and has been recognized as one of the most influential women in Nigeria.
Tunde Kelani
Tunde Kelani was born on 26th February 1948, in Lagos, Nigeria. He is one of the most respected and accomplished filmmakers in Nollywood.
He began his career in the 1970s as a cinematographer and later became a director. He has directed several award-winning movies, including “Saworoide”, “Thunderbolt”, and “Maami”. His movies are known for their high production value, compelling storylines, and strong cultural and social messages.
Tunde Kelani is also a pioneer in Nollywood, having founded Mainframe Productions in 1991. Mainframe Productions is one of the leading production companies in Nigeria, and has produced several critically acclaimed movies and documentaries.
In addition to his directing and producing roles, Tunde Kelani is also a mentor to many young filmmakers in Nigeria. He has been recognized both locally and internationally for his contributions to the growth and development of the movie industry. He is respected for his talent, creativity, and dedication to his craft, as well as his contributions to preserving and promoting Nigerian culture on the global stage.
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