Nollywood Actress Mercy Aigbe: Biography & Career

August 21, 2025 admin

Early Life & Education

Mercy Aigbe was born on January 1, 1978, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. She is the second of five children, raised by Pa Aigbe and Mrs. Abisola Grace Owodunni. Her formative years were spent in a close-knit family environment that instilled in her the values of resilience and determination.

She began her education at St. Francis Primary School and later proceeded to Maryland Comprehensive Secondary School in Ikeja, Lagos. Mercy then attended The Polytechnic, Ibadan, where she earned an OND in Financial Studies. Her passion for the arts, however, pushed her further, and she went on to secure a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Lagos in 2001. This strong academic foundation in performance became the stepping stone for her future career in Nollywood.

Acting Career: From Soap Operas to Nollywood Icon

Mercy’s first notable exposure came through soap operas, particularly the highly popular “Papa Ajasco”, which was beloved by audiences across Nigeria. Her Nollywood breakthrough came in 2006 with the Yoruba-language film “Ara”, directed by Remi Olupo. This performance became her launching pad, drawing significant attention to her acting prowess.

Since then, Mercy Aigbe has gone on to feature in over 150 films, across both Yoruba and English-language Nollywood productions. Her ability to embody diverse characters has made her one of the most respected actresses in the industry.

Some of her most popular films include:

Afefe Ife (2008)
Okanjua (2008)
Atunida Leyi (2009)
Igberaga (2009)
Ipese (2009)
Iro Funfun (2009)
Omoge Osas (2012)
77 Bullets (2019) – which she also produced
Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020) – a blockbuster hit where she played Prisca
Obsession (2022)
Palava (2022)
Ada Omo Daddy (2023), which she co-produced

Her versatility—seamlessly moving between Yoruba and English movies—has solidified her position as one of Nollywood’s most bankable stars.

Entrepreneurship & Mentorship

Mercy Aigbe is more than just an actress; she is also a savvy businesswoman.

In 2014, she launched Mag Divas Boutique, a fashion store in Lagos that later expanded to Ibadan. The boutique has become one of the most sought-after fashion brands in Nigeria. She further expanded her portfolio by introducing Flawless by Mercy, a skincare line, and Asoebi Mercy, a brand catering to traditional fashion and events.

In 2016, she established the Mercy Aigbe Gentry School of Drama (also known as MAG School of Drama). This academy trains aspiring actors in acting, scriptwriting, filmmaking, and stagecraft. Many upcoming stars have credited their growth to the school, making Mercy a vital mentor in Nollywood.

Fashion & Brand Ambassadorship

Mercy Aigbe is widely celebrated as a fashion icon in Nigeria. Her bold, stylish, and elegant outfits often dominate conversations on social media, especially during red-carpet events.

Her unforgettable African Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) outfit in 2016 went viral and remains one of the most talked-about fashion moments in Nollywood. Her boutique, Mag Divas, has helped her build an empire around fashion, appealing to both young and older generations.

As a brand influencer and ambassador, she has represented numerous top companies, including:

Elephant Gold Rice
Prestige Cosmetics
Edalaf Brothers Limited (IT solutions)
Shape You (slimming coffee)
BK Hair
Naija Taxi Services
Mary Make Cosmetics

Through these partnerships, she has continued to expand her influence beyond film and into lifestyle and business.

Awards & Recognitions

Mercy’s contributions to Nollywood and her influence in fashion have earned her several awards and recognitions, including:

Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Yoruba) – City People Awards (2010)
Best Indigenous Language Movie (Yoruba) – Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (2014)
Best Actress (Yoruba) – City People Awards (multiple times)
Yoruba Movie Personality of the Year – City People Entertainment Awards (2015)
Fashion Entrepreneur of the Year – Links and Glitz World Awards (2015)

These accolades reflect her dual success as both a performer and entrepreneur.

Personal Life & Public Impact

Mercy Aigbe’s personal life has often attracted media attention. Her first marriage to hotelier Lanre Gentry ended after allegations of domestic violence, a subject she bravely addressed to raise awareness about abuse.

In 2022, she married filmmaker Kazim Adeoti, popularly known as Adekaz. Following her marriage, she converted to Islam and adopted the name Hajia Meenah Mercy Adeoti. Her boldness in embracing change and her unapologetic lifestyle choices have continued to keep her in the public eye.

On January 1, 2025, Mercy celebrated her 47th birthday, marking nearly two decades of influence in Nollywood and beyond.

Legacy & Ongoing Influence

Mercy Aigbe’s legacy goes beyond her filmography. She has:

Shown versatility as an actress, excelling in both Yoruba and English Nollywood productions.
Empowered women through her entrepreneurship and fashion business.
Inspired younger actors by establishing her drama school.
Advocated for women’s rights and resilience, speaking openly about personal struggles.

Her continuous reinvention ensures her relevance, making her one of the most enduring names in Nollywood.

Conclusion

Mercy Aigbe is not just a Nollywood star; she is a symbol of resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurship. From her humble beginnings to her rise as an award-winning actress, businesswoman, fashion mogul, and mentor, she embodies the spirit of hard work and determination.

As she continues to expand her influence in Nollywood and beyond, Mercy remains a powerful inspiration to aspiring actors, entrepreneurs, and women across Africa. Her story is a testimony to the power of passion, persistence, and reinvention.