Nollywood, the Nigerian filmmaking industry, and the third largest film industry in terms of output has a rich and diverse pool of talent, making the industry the success hub it is today. Our nation is rich in diversity and culture, with over 250 tribes and 36 states. It is no wonder that we have an abundance of actors who not only represent our country’s beauty but also infuse their unique auras into every role they play on screen. This is why we’re curious to get into Nollywood actors and their state of origin and tribe.
Nollywood is a true reflection of the multi-ethnic nature of Nigeria, from Yoruba-speaking actors to the Igbos, the Hausas, and every tribe on the land. There’s an actor for every nook and cranny of Nigeria that is sure to represent and bring to life the beauty of Nigeria through film. In this list, we will be taking a look at 100 Nollywood actors, their state of origin, and their tribe. Let’s take a look at our favourite Nollywood stars and their cultural roots. You never know, your favourite actor might just be from the same tribe as you.
1. Too Sweet Annan
First up, Too Sweet Annan is a Nigerian Ghanaian actor known for his charismatic performances in Nollywood and Ghallywood productions. Hailing from Accra, Ghana, and belonging to the Ga tribe on his father’s side, his unique heritage blends Nigerian and Ghanaian influences. His mother’s roots trace back to Auchi in Edo State, Nigeria, adding to his multicultural identity.
2. Stan Eze
Stanley Ebuka Nzediegwu, better known as Stan Eze, is a versatile Nollywood actor from Nnewi, Anambra State. An Igbo man by tribe, Stan is celebrated for his roles in movies like Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story, where he showcases his impressive acting range.
3. Deyemi Okanlawon
Deyemi Okanlawon is a top-tier Nollywood actor from Lagos State, Yoruba by tribe. Known for his impressive acting range, he has starred in critically acclaimed films and series, such as Blood Sisters and Omo Ghetto: The Saga.
4. Mike Afolarin
Mike Afolarin, from Oyo State, is a fast-rising Yoruba actor who is carving a niche for himself in Nollywood. His role in Netflix’s Far From Home earned him widespread acclaim and his acting career has been on an impressive roll ever since.
5. Kenneth Okolie
Kenneth Okolie, a Nollywood heartthrob, hails from Anambra State and is Igbo by tribe. A former Mr. Nigeria, Kenneth has transitioned seamlessly into acting, starring in films like Gbomo Gbomo Express.
6. Bryan Okwara
Bryan Okwara, an Igbo man from Imo State, gained fame after winning Mr. Nigeria in 2007. His journey into Nollywood has seen him feature in romantic dramas and comedies.
7. Maleek Milton
Maleek Milton, an Igbo actor from Enugu State, is a rising star in Nollywood. His performances in traditional Igbo settings make him a favorite in cultural and epic films.
8. Ray Emodi
Ray Emodi, an Igbo actor from Enugu State, is known for his charming demeanor and excellent acting skills. His roles in romantic and dramatic films have made him a household name in the entertainment world.
9. Eronini Osinachi
Eronini Osinachi, a young Nigerian actor of Igbo descent, hails from Imo State. His ability to portray emotionally intense characters sets him apart in Nollywood, his role in shows like All of Us is a clear example of his talent.
10. Zubby Michael
Zubby Michael, an energetic and prolific actor from Anambra State, is Igbo by tribe. Known for his action-packed roles, he is regarded as one of Nollywood’s most consistent stars.
11. Bolanle Ninalowo
Bolanle Ninalowo, also known as Nino B, hails from Ikorodu, Lagos State, and is Yoruba by descent. Renowned for his physique and charm, he has starred in blockbuster films like Picture Perfect.
12. Chike Daniels
Chike Daniels, an Igbo actor from Oguta, Imo State, has won audiences with his dynamic acting in Nollywood dramas.
13. Eddie Watson
Eddie Watson, though Liberian-born, has made a name for himself in Nollywood. He also has roots in Akwa Ibom, belonging to the Oron tribe.
14. Tchidi Chikere
Tchidi Chikere, a native of Amuzi Ahiazu Mbaise in Imo State, is a renowned Nollywood actor, producer, and director, celebrated for his storytelling skills.
15. Alex Ekubo
Alex Ekubo, a Nollywood actor from Arochukwu, Abia State, is Igbo by tribe. He is admired for his roles in romantic comedies and dramas such as Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story.
16. Mike Godson
Born in Kano State but originally from Imo State and Igbo by tribe, Mike Godson is a gifted actor whose romantic roles such as Hire a Woman have made him a fan favourite Nollywood actor.
17. Jerry Williams
Jerry Williams, from Igbo Ukwu in Anambra State, is a celebrated Igbo actor known for his remarkable versatility in traditional and urban Nollywood films.
18. Alex Cross
Alex Cross Chukwuebuka Ajoku is an Igbo actor from Imo State, Nigeria. His performances in dramatic roles highlight his dedication to the craft and art of acting.
19. Kelvin Ezike
Kelvin Ezike, hailing from Imo State, represents the Igbo tribe in Nollywood with his captivating performances in epic and modern dramas.
20. Charles Inojie
Charles Inojie, from the Esan South-East LGA of Edo State, is a comedic icon in Nollywood, often known for his humorous roles in family-centered comedies.
21. Sam Dede
Sam Dede, a veteran actor from Rivers State, has Ijaw roots. Known for his commanding screen presence, he starred in the iconic movie Isakaba.
22. Uzor Arukwe
Uzor Arukwe, from Nkwerre, Imo State, is a talented Igbo actor who has made waves with his memorable roles in Sugar Rush and other Nollywood hits.
23. Chidi Mokeme
Chidi Mokeme, a native of Oba in Idemili South LGA of Anambra State, is a Nollywood legend and former host of Gulder Ultimate Search.
24. Tobi Bakre
Tobi Bakre, a Yoruba man from the Awa-Ijebu Kingdom in Ogun State, transitioned from reality TV (Big Brother Naija) to Nollywood, earning accolades for roles in Brotherhood.
25. Flashboy
Stephen Emeka Odimgbe, popularly known as Flashboy, is an Igbo actor from Anambra State and is known for his charisma and compelling performances in romantic and epic films.
26. Maurice Sam
Maurice Sam, an actor of Akwa Ibom origin and Ibibio by tribe, has made significant contributions to Nollywood with his appearances in romantic dramas and television series.
27. Somadina Adinma
Somadina Adinma, an Igbo actor from Neni, Anambra State, began his career as a child actor. He has since grown into a versatile actor known for his captivating performances in epic and contemporary movies.
28. Jidekene Achufusi
Jidekene Achufusi, popularly known as Swanky JKA, is from Anambra State and Igbo by tribe. He gained international recognition for his lead role as Nnamdi Okeke in Living in Bondage: Breaking Free.
29. Ime Bishop Umoh
Ime Bishop Umoh, also known as Okon Lagos, is an Ibibio actor from Nsit Ibom, Akwa Ibom State. Renowned for his comedic roles, he remains one of Nollywood’s most beloved comic actors.
30. Williams Uchemba
Williams Uchemba, a Nollywood actor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, is a part of the Igbo tribe from Abia State. He is recognized for his comic roles and philanthropic efforts, particularly through his charity initiatives.
31. Mr. Macaroni
Adebowale Babatunde Adedayo, widely known as Mr. Macaroni, is Yoruba by tribe and hails from Ogun State. His comedic skits have made him a social media sensation, and he is increasingly making his mark in Nollywood.
32. Ayo Makun (AY)
Ayo Makun, commonly referred to as AY, is an actor and comedian from Ifon in Ose LGA, Ondo State. Yoruba by tribe, he is known for creating blockbuster comedies like 30 Days in Atlanta.
33. Ramsey Nouah
Ramsey Nouah, one of Nollywood’s most iconic actors, hails from Owo, Ondo State, on his mother’s side, and has Lebanese-Israeli roots on his father’s side. His versatility and charm have earned him a place as one of Nollywood’s greatest stars.
34. Jim Iyke
Jim Iyke, though born in Libreville, Gabon, is an Igbo actor from Ogwugwu Village in Enugwu-Agidi, Anambra State. Known as Nollywood’s “Bad Boy,” he has starred in numerous critically acclaimed films.
35. Chigozie Atuanya
Chigozie Atuanya, an Igbo actor from Agu-Ukwu Nri in Anambra State, is celebrated for his ability to bring traditional and modern roles to life in Nollywood.
36. Enyinna Nwigwe
Enyinna Nwigwe, an Igbo man from Imo State, gained fame for his role in The Wedding Party. His remarkable performances have earned him a reputation as one of Nollywood’s leading men.
37. John Dumelo
John Dumelo, though fully Ghanaian, gained widespread recognition in Nollywood for his stellar performances in romantic dramas and collaborations with top Nigerian actors.
38. Frank Artus
Frank Artus, a Liberian actor who has worked extensively in Nollywood, is known for his roles in romantic films and his collaborations with Nigerian stars.
39. Uti Nwachukwu
Uti Nwachukwu, from Ndokwa in Aboh Kingdom, Delta State, belongs to the Ukwuani tribe. A former Big Brother Africa winner, he transitioned to Nollywood and is celebrated for his roles in both film and television.
40. Onny Michael
Onny Michael, an Igbo actor from Enugu State, is known for his captivating performances in Nollywood’s epic and romantic dramas.
41. Odunlade Adekola
Odunlade Adekola, a Yoruba native from Otun Ekiti, Ekiti State, is one of Nollywood’s most celebrated actors and filmmakers. His comedic and dramatic roles in Yoruba cinema have made him a household name.
42. Femi Adebayo
Femi Adebayo, a son of Nollywood veteran Adebayo Salami (Oga Bello), is a Yoruba actor from Ilorin, Kwara State. He is renowned for his roles in Yoruba films and as the producer of King of Thieves (Agesinkole).
43. Damola Olatunji
Damola Olatunji, from Edo Agbo in Osun State, is a versatile Yoruba actor and producer known for his captivating roles in Yoruba films.
44. Muyiwa Ademola
Muyiwa Ademola, also called Muyiwa Authentic, is a Yoruba actor from Abeokuta, Ogun State. His work as an actor, producer, and director has earned him several awards and accolades in the Yoruba film industry.
45. Chinedu Ikedieze
Popularly known for his endless epic roles as Aki in the Aki and Pawpaw franchise that took the entire country by storm, Chinedu Ikedieze is from the Igbo tribe and is from Bendel, Abia state.
46. Osita Iheme
Popularly known for his roles as Pawpaw alongside Chinedu Ikediez, just like his lifelong colleague, he is also Igbo by tribe but Osita Iheme comes from the local government of Mbaitoli Imo State.
47. Nkem Owoh
Legendary actor Nkem Owoh who rose to fame with movies such as Osuofia in London, is from Amagu Village, Udi Local Government Area (LGA), Enugu State, making him Igbo by tribe.
48. Chiwetel Agu
Chiwetel Agu is most known for his perfect and humorous Igbo dialect and slang in movies, there is no surprise here that he is an Igbo man himself from Enugu state.
49. Emeka Ike
Emeka Ike is a veteran Nollywood actor most known for his iconic roles in old Nollywood movies, the actor is from Imo state which essentially makes him an Igbo man through and through.
50. Van Vicker
Van Vicker is a popular Ghanaian actor who has appeared in many Nollywood movies alongside other big names in the industry, his nationality is Ghanaian.
51. Mike Ezuruonye
Mike Ezuruonye is a Nollywood heartthrob thanks to his numerous roles in the Nollywood movie industry, he is from Uzuakoli in Abia State, making him Igbo by tribe.
52. Nonso Diobi
Nonso Diobi’s early acting career was nothing short of show-stopping, and while he took a break from acting, his comeback was just as impressive. The Nollywood actor is from Anambra and is a part of the Igbo native culture in Nawfia.
53. Ken Erics
Ken Erics Ugo or simply Ken Erics is noted to be a Nigerian film and television actor, writer, producer, and occasional musician, the popular actor hails from Anambra state and is of Igbo descent.
54. Yul Edochie
Yul Edochie, the son of Nollywood veteran Pete Edochie, has earned himself a spot as another good Nollywood actor that is a fan favourite. He is a part of the Igbo tribe and comes from Anambra state.
55. Nosa Rex
Nosa Rex Okunzuwa, known by his stage name Nosa Rex is a Nigerian film and TV actor and film producer from the Bini tribe of Edo state.
56. Blossom Chukwujekwu
Blossom Chukwujekwu is a Nigerian actor known for several remarkable performances. He is a native of Otolo, Nnewi North in Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria, and a member of the Igbo tribe.
57. Saheed Balogun
Saheed Balogun is a veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker who is part of African history as he produced many movies including the first 3 cast movies in West Africa. He hails from Oyo state Nigeria, and is part of the beautiful culture of the Yoruba tribe.
58. John Ekanem
Nollywood actor John Tyler Ekanem is taking the industry by storm with every single role he plays, this Nigerian actor is from Cross River state and Efik by tribe.
59. Gbenro Ajibade
Gbenro Ajibade is well known for his lead role in the TV series Tinsel, his two passions include model and acting which he has infused to become his profession. He is from Kogi state and a member of the Yoruba tribe.
60. Adeniyi Johnson
Adeniyi Johnson’s rise in fame came after his role in the television series Tinsel, as well as other Nollywood English films and Yoruba films. He is a Yoruba man from the state of Ondo.
61. Olu Jacobs
Olu Jacobs is often called the Igwe of Nollywood, which means the king, this is because of his most famous roles which include The Dogs of War, Oloibiri, and so on. The renowned actor is from the Yoruba tribe from Egba Alake, Abeokuta.
62. Pete Edochie
Pete Edochie is a member of the Igbo people of Nigeria. He is a veteran actor and practitioner of Igbo culture in his state of origin, Anambra.
63. Kanayo O. Kanayo
Kanayo O. Kanayo made a name for himself in Nollywood by portraying ritualists in some of his movies. The actor is from Mbaise, Imo state, and is a huge part of the Igbo tribe.
64. Clem Ohameze
Clem Ohameze is a veteran Nollywood actor with an impressive acting career which spanned over two decades. Clem Ohameze hails from Oguta in Imo State, making him a member of the Igbo tribe.
65. Ugezu J. Ugezu
Fans of all things Nollywood know and love Ugezu J. Ogezu for his work as an actor and director in the most prominent movies. Ugezu J. Ogezu is a part of the Igbo community from Anambra State, Nigeria.
66. Kenneth Okonkwo
Kenneth Okonkwo is best known for movies such as Living in Bondage, Wives on Strike, and so on. The renowned actor is from Enugu state and is part of the rich culture of the Igbo tribe.
67. Jide Kosoko
Jide Kosoko is not only Nollywood royalty, the Nigerian actor is a member of the Kosoko royal family of Lagos Island and a member of the Yoruba tribe.
68. Richard Mofe Damijo
Popularly known as RMD, Richard Mofe Damijo has been on an iconic ride in Nollywood and isn’t slowing down. According to TheInformat247, the actor is from the Udu Kingdom of the Urhobo tribe in Delta State, Nigeria.
69. Segun Arinze
Segun Arinze has played a huge part in the growth of Nollywood thanks to his several acting gigs. The actor is both Yoruba and Igbo by tribe, with his Yoruba father being from Badagry, Lagos State, while his mother is of the Igbo tribe.
70. Zack Orji
Zack Orji’s roles in the Nollywood industry with movies such as Glamour Girls and Blood Money will forever go down in history. He is an indigenous member of the Amata Mgbowo tribe in Agwu Local Government, Enugu State, Nigeria.
71. Desmond Elliot
Desmond Elliot’s career in the Nollywood scene is nothing short of remarkable, the actor was born to a Yoruba father from Olowogbowo in Lagos State, and a mother from Illah in Oshimili North, Delta State, making him both Yoruba and Igboid by tribe.
72. Tony Umez
Stellar Nollywood actor, Tony Umez stole our hearts role after role with impressive talent. The Nollywood icon is of mixed ethnicity with his mother being a part of the Efik tribe in Cross River, and his father being Igbo from Anambra state.
73. Bucci Franklin
Onyebuchi Franklin Odurukwe has gone from strength in the Nollywood industry, from one epic movie to the next. The Nollywood star is a part of the Igbo tribe from the southeastern part of Nigeria in Imo state.
74. Kunle Afolayan
Kunle Afolayan is a groundbreaking filmmaker who has created iconic Nollywood titles such as 1 October, The Phone Swap, and so on. Afolayan is of Igbomina-Yoruba descent and is from Kwara State.
75. Lateef Adedimeji
Lateef Adedimeji is a Yoruba man from Ogun state. This Nollywood actor and producer has several Nollywood titles under his belt.
76. Femi Branch
Femi Branch is a Nigerian actor, director, and politician. He is a member of the Ijebu tribe from Ogun state.
77. Frederick Leonard
Leonard is a leading actor in Nollywood, he made his acting debut in 2008 in the movie Indian Doctor. He is from Anambra state, and from the Igbo tribe to be precise.
78. IK Ogbonna
IK Ogbonna is a Nollywood star who has appeared in quite several Nollywood films over the years, the actor is Igbo from Abia State, Nigeria.
79. Browny Igboegwu
Brown Ifeanyi “Browny” Igboegwu is an Igbo-Nigerian actor from Anambra state, his acting career is recorded to have begun in 2005, making him a legendary Nollywood actor with several film credits to his name.
80. Michael Okon
Michael Okon started off his journey as a model and radio presenter before venturing into acting, the actor comes from Akwa Ibom state and is Ibibio.
81. Francis Duru
Veteran Nollywood actor, Francis Duru has been in quite several Nollywood movies over the years. The actor is a native of Mbaitoli Local Government Area in Imo State, Nigeria, a part of the Igbo tribe.
82. Basketmouth
Bright Okpocha whose stage name is Basketmouth is a popular comedian and actor who comes from Abia state and is Igbo by tribe.
83. Charles Okocha
Popularly known as Igwe 2Pac, Okocha is a Nigerian actor and comedian who is known for playing bad-boy roles, the actor is from Anambra state and is part of the Igbo tribe.
84. Bovi Ugboma
Bovi Ugboma is a highly talented, famous comedian and actor with roles in movies and series such as It’s Her Day, Visa on Arrival, and others. The actor is a native of the Isoko tribe, in Delta state.
85. Walter Anga
Walter Anga, is a well-known Nollywood Actor with movies such as Mission Impossible, he’s also starred in roles alongside other well-known names such as Rita Dominic. He is an Ijaw man from Ogu/Bolo LGA, River State.
86. Gentle Jack
Nigerian actor Gentle Jack has been featured in so many movies right from the early days of Nollywood, the legend comes from Abonema in Kalabari kingdom in Rivers State of Nigeria.
87. Kelvin Ikeduba
Kelvin Ikeduba is most prominent for both English-speaking Nollywood movies and Yoruba movies. This is why fans may be surprised to learn that he is from the Igbo tribe of Delta State Nigeria.
88. Sylvester Madu
Sylvester Madu known for several of his impressive acting and directing roles in Nollywood is from the Igbo tribe of Anambra state.
89. Kunle Remi
Kunle Remi has made a name for himself in the world of Nollywood by starring in films like Falling and Aníkúlápó. The popular actor is from Ekiti State Nigeria, and of Yoruba descent.
90. OC Ukeje
OC Ukeje has landed some of the most iconic roles in and outside Nollywood with Nollywood films such as Potato Potahto under his acting belt, the actor is a native of Umuahia, the capital city of Abia State, and Igbo by tribe.
91. Gideon Okeke
Gideon Okeke hustled his way from the ground up to Nollywood fame, the famous actor is of Igbo descent from Anambra state.
92. Joseph Benjamin
Joseph Benjamin is a Nigerian actor and TV presenter who became known as a co-host on the show Project Fame. He also starred in roles such as the series Desperate Housewives Africa. The actor is from a family of mixed ethnicity, his father hails from Kogi State while his mother is from Anambra State, which means he’s both Igala and Igbo by tribe.
93. Daniel K. Daniel
Daniel K Daniel, popularly known as DKD is a popular Nollywood actor who recently decided to take a partial break from acting due to parenthood, comes from Enugu state, and is of Igbo descent.
94. Pere Egbi
Pere Egbi who is most known for his time at Big Brother Nigeria has also gained new fans thanks to his acting roles in the movie industry, the Nollywood actor comes from Delta state and he is from the Urhobo tribe.
95. Kalu Ikeagwu
Kalu Ikeagwu is a British Nigerian actor who has received several awards and accolades for his roles in the movies. The uber-talented actor has roots in the Igbo tribe from Anambra state.
96. Daniel Etim Effiong
Daniel Etim Effiong is no stranger to the spotlight, the multi-talented actor, and filmmaker is Efik, a tribe from Cross River State.
97. Timini Egbuson
From one Nollywood movie role to another, Timini Egbuson is the ultimate bad boy and lover boy, the famous actor is part of the Ijaw tribe from Bayelsa state.
98. Chidi Dike
Miracle Chidi Dike won the hearts of fans with his numerous roles in movies such as Love Square. The actor comes from the eastern part of Nigeria, Abia state which makes him Igbo by tribe.
99. Olumide Oworu
The self-proclaimed fresh prince of Lagos, Olumide Oworu who is most famous for his acting career, especially for his role as Tari in the Johnsons, is from Ogun state, and Yoruba by tribe.
100. Clinton Joshua
Clinton Joshua gained recognition for his roles in movies such as When Angels Meet which premiered in 2022. According to reports, the young star is an Edo State native, born to parents from the Esan ethnic group.
