Top 10 Nollywood Actors of All Time

August 21, 2025 admin

Nollywood, Nigeria’s film industry, is one of the largest and most influential in the world. With thousands of movies produced annually, it has carved out a unique space in global cinema. Beyond its fast-paced production style, Nollywood’s heart and soul lie in its actors—those who have carried stories that reflect the culture, struggles, and triumphs of Africa. Some names stand out not just for their skill but for their lasting impact on generations of movie lovers.

Here, we celebrate the Top 10 Nollywood Actors of All Time, examining their contributions, versatility, and influence on the industry and beyond.

1. Pete Edochie

Often referred to as the “godfather” of Nollywood, Pete Edochie is one of the most respected actors to emerge from the Nigerian film industry. His career gained momentum after he starred in the NTA adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, where he delivered a powerful portrayal of Okonkwo.

Edochie’s deep voice, commanding presence, and ability to embody traditional African patriarchal figures have made him a household name across Africa. Beyond his roles as kings and fathers, his wisdom-laden persona has made him a cultural icon, often quoted in proverbs and memes. For many, Nollywood’s rise to international prominence is inseparable from Pete Edochie’s influence.

2. Olu Jacobs

Olu Jacobs is not only a Nollywood star but also a bridge between African and international cinema. Trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, Jacobs has acted in numerous British television series before returning to Nigeria to contribute to Nollywood’s growth.

Over the decades, Jacobs has appeared in more than 120 Nollywood films, often portraying roles of dignity and authority. His ability to bring grace and gravitas to any character has cemented his status as one of the greatest. Alongside his wife, actress Joke Silva, Jacobs has also nurtured young actors, ensuring his legacy goes beyond his filmography.

3. Justus Esiri

The late Justus Esiri is remembered as one of the pioneers of Nollywood. Before the Nollywood boom, he was already a beloved actor thanks to his role in The Village Headmaster, one of Nigeria’s most iconic TV dramas.

Esiri brought unmatched passion and authenticity to his roles, often playing fatherly figures and community leaders. His career spanned decades, and he was awarded national honors for his contribution to Nigerian arts and culture. To this day, Esiri is celebrated as a foundation stone upon which Nollywood was built.

4. Ramsey Nouah

Dubbed “Nollywood’s Lover Boy” in the 1990s and early 2000s, Ramsey Nouah captivated audiences with his charming performances in romantic films. Over time, however, Nouah expanded his range to include action, thriller, and dramatic roles, proving his versatility.

He won the African Movie Academy Award (AMAA) for Best Actor for his role in The Figurine, a film often credited with raising Nollywood’s global profile. In recent years, he has transitioned into directing, helming successful projects such as Living in Bondage: Breaking Free and Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story. Ramsey Nouah is not only an actor but a creative force redefining Nollywood.

5. Kanayo O. Kanayo

Kanayo O. Kanayo, popularly known as KOK, is a legend in his own right. With over 100 films to his name, Kanayo is celebrated for his range and powerful delivery. While he is often typecast as the man involved in ritual practices—a trope that became popular in Nollywood—his ability to bring depth to even controversial roles is unmatched.

In 2006, he won the AMAA for Best Actor for his role in Family Battle. Beyond acting, Kanayo is also a lawyer, adding another layer of accomplishment to his already illustrious career.

6. Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme (Aki and Pawpaw)

No conversation about Nollywood legends would be complete without the dynamic duo of Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme, popularly known as Aki and Pawpaw. They rose to fame with their film Aki na Ukwa, and their on-screen chemistry quickly made them fan favorites.

Their comedic timing and ability to play mischievous characters made them icons not only in Nigeria but globally. In the age of the internet, their movie clips and facial expressions have turned them into meme legends, giving Nollywood unparalleled global visibility. Both actors have been honored with lifetime achievement awards for their contributions.

7. Jim Iyke

Nicknamed “Nollywood’s Bad Boy,” Jim Iyke has starred in over 150 films and is one of the highest-paid actors in the industry. His charisma, confidence, and ability to embody edgy characters made him a standout star in the 2000s.

Jim Iyke often plays roles that involve wealth, arrogance, or conflict, but his energy on screen keeps audiences glued. Beyond acting, he is also a businessman, musician, and philanthropist. He founded the Jim Iyke Foundation, which focuses on helping children with special needs.

8. Emeka Ike

Emeka Ike was one of Nollywood’s most beloved faces in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Known for his romantic roles and boy-next-door charm, Ike appeared in classics like A Million Tears and Ready to Die.

While he stepped back from acting for a while, his contributions to Nollywood’s golden era remain unforgettable. Emeka Ike represents the nostalgic phase of Nollywood that many fans still hold dear.

9. Kenneth Okonkwo

Kenneth Okonkwo is best known for his groundbreaking role as Andy Okeke in Living in Bondage, the film credited with kickstarting Nollywood in the early 1990s. His performance in that movie is often cited as one of the most important in Nollywood history.

Over the years, Okonkwo has continued to act in films while also venturing into politics and law. His legacy is tied not only to his acting but also to his role as a pioneer of the industry.

10. Mike Ezuruonye and Nonso Diobi

Rounding off the list are two actors who became household names in the 2000s—Mike Ezuruonye and Nonso Diobi.

Mike Ezuruonye, known for his expressive face and versatility, has earned multiple award nominations, including AMAA nods. His roles in both romantic and dramatic films have solidified his reputation as one of Nollywood’s modern greats.

Nonso Diobi, meanwhile, has appeared in over 70 films and is celebrated for his charisma and range. Together, these two represent the new generation that carried Nollywood’s momentum into the 21st century.

Why These Ten?

Historical Importance: Actors like Pete Edochie, Olu Jacobs, and Justus Esiri laid the groundwork for Nollywood.
Cultural Impact: Aki and Pawpaw became global icons through memes, while Kanayo O. Kanayo became synonymous with certain Nollywood archetypes.
Award Recognition: Many of these stars, like Ramsey Nouah and Kanayo, have won prestigious awards.
Versatility: From romance to comedy to action, these actors proved they could excel across genres.
Generational Reach: Their work spans decades, influencing both older and younger audiences.

ALSO READ : The Highest Paid Nollywood Actress in 2025 – Revealed!

Honorable Mentions

Patience Ozokwor (Mama G): Known for her fierce motherly roles and villainous characters.
Chiwetalu Agu: Famous for his comic relief and witty catchphrases.
Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD): Suave, versatile, and a consistent presence in Nollywood.

Conclusion

The story of Nollywood is, in many ways, the story of its actors. These men and women have carried the industry on their shoulders, bringing to life stories that reflect Nigerian culture, values, and creativity. From Pete Edochie’s patriarchal gravitas to Aki and Pawpaw’s comedic brilliance, these actors have shaped Nollywood into the global phenomenon it is today.