Nigeria’s entertainment industry, popularly known as Nollywood, has grown into one of the largest film industries in the world. Every year, hundreds of movies are released, and many of the actors behind these films have become household names—not just in Africa, but across the globe.
Over the years, Nollywood has produced some of the richest actors in Nigeria, whose talent, hard work, and business sense have made them multimillionaires. These stars have successfully transformed their passion for acting into wealth through film production, endorsements, investments, and entrepreneurship.
In this detailed article, we take a look at the biographies and net worth (in dollars) of Nigeria’s richest actors in 2025.
1. Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD)
Full Name: Richard Eyimofe Evans Mofe-Damijo
Date of Birth: July 6, 1961
Place of Birth: Aladja, Delta State, Nigeria
Occupation: Actor, Lawyer, Politician
Estimated Net Worth (2025): $15 million
Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, is one of Nollywood’s most respected and wealthiest actors. He began his career as a journalist and later transitioned into acting in the 1980s with TV shows like Ripples.
RMD gained fame with his roles in movies such as Out of Bounds, Hostages, and 30 Days in Atlanta. In addition to acting, he has held several public positions, including Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State.
His wealth comes from his decades-long acting career, political appointments, endorsement deals, and real estate investments. RMD’s charisma, professionalism, and versatility have made him one of the highest-earning figures in Nollywood history.
2. Jim Iyke
Full Name: James Ikechukwu Esomugha
Date of Birth: September 25, 1976
Place of Birth: Libreville, Gabon
Occupation: Actor, Producer, Entrepreneur
Estimated Net Worth (2025): $12 million
Jim Iyke is often called “Nollywood’s Bad Boy”, thanks to his frequent portrayal of confident, daring characters. With over 150 films to his credit, he has become one of the most successful and wealthiest Nigerian actors.
He started his acting career in the late 1990s and rose to fame with movies like Last Flight to Abuja and Games Men Play. Beyond acting, Jim Iyke is a savvy businessman. He owns a clothing line called Untamed Closet, runs a film production company, and invests in real estate.
Jim Iyke’s diverse sources of income have significantly contributed to his wealth, making him one of the richest actors in Nigeria.
3. Desmond Elliot
Full Name: Desmond Oluwashola Elliot
Date of Birth: February 4, 1974
Place of Birth: Lagos, Nigeria
Occupation: Actor, Director, Politician
Estimated Net Worth (2025): $10 million
Desmond Elliot began his career in Nollywood during the early 2000s and has appeared in over 200 movies. Known for his versatility, he has starred in numerous hit films, including Men Who Cheat, Games Women Play, and Reloaded.
Aside from his achievements in the film industry, Desmond ventured into politics, serving as a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly. He also works as a film director and producer, which has added to his income.
His wealth comes from a combination of acting, directing, politics, and multiple investments in real estate and production.
4. Ramsey Nouah
Full Name: Ramsey Tokunbo Nouah Jr.
Date of Birth: December 19, 1970
Place of Birth: Edo State, Nigeria
Occupation: Actor, Director, Producer
Estimated Net Worth (2025): $8 million
Ramsey Nouah is one of Nollywood’s most recognizable faces, known for his roles in romantic films during the late 1990s and early 2000s. His breakout performance came in Silent Night and Dangerous Twins, which solidified his place in the industry.
He has since expanded into directing and producing, with projects such as Living in Bondage: Breaking Free and Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story, both of which were box-office hits.
Ramsey’s career earnings, endorsement deals, and production profits have made him one of the richest actors in Nigeria.
5. Zubby Michael
Full Name: Azubuike Michael Egwu
Date of Birth: February 1, 1985
Place of Birth: Anambra State, Nigeria
Occupation: Actor, Producer
Estimated Net Worth (2025): $7 million
Zubby Michael is one of Nollywood’s new-generation stars who have made massive financial strides. Known for his energetic and powerful performances in action and traditional films, Zubby has featured in over 200 movies.
He began his career in Missing Rib and gained fame through The Three Widows and Royal Storm. In addition to acting, Zubby is a film producer and a successful businessman, investing in entertainment and hospitality.
His hard work, charisma, and dedication have earned him a place among the richest Nigerian actors in 2025.
6. Kanayo O. Kanayo
Full Name: Anayo Modestus Onyekwere
Date of Birth: March 1, 1962
Place of Birth: Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria
Occupation: Actor, Lawyer
Estimated Net Worth (2025): $6 million
Kanayo O. Kanayo, also known as KOK, is a veteran actor who has contributed immensely to the growth of Nollywood. He became famous after appearing in Living in Bondage, the movie widely credited for launching the modern Nigerian film industry.
Besides acting, Kanayo is a qualified lawyer and has invested in various business ventures. His impressive acting career and professional pursuits make him one of Nigeria’s most respected and wealthy actors.
7. Chidi Mokeme
Full Name: Chidi Mokeme
Date of Birth: March 17, 1972
Place of Birth: Anambra State, Nigeria
Occupation: Actor, Model, TV Host
Estimated Net Worth (2025): $5 million
Chidi Mokeme has been a prominent figure in Nollywood for over two decades. He became famous for his captivating roles in movies like Agony of a Mother, 76, and The Therapist.
He also gained additional fame as the host of Gulder Ultimate Search, one of Nigeria’s most popular reality TV shows. His wealth comes from acting, endorsements, and television hosting.
8. Nkem Owoh (Osuofia)
Full Name: Nkem Owoh
Date of Birth: October 7, 1958
Place of Birth: Enugu State, Nigeria
Occupation: Actor, Comedian, Musician
Estimated Net Worth (2025): $4.5 million
Nkem Owoh, popularly known as Osuofia, is one of Nollywood’s most loved actors. He gained nationwide recognition with his comedy film Osuofia in London, which became an instant classic.
His unique comedic style and longevity in the industry have earned him numerous awards and recognition. Nkem Owoh continues to act in both comedic and dramatic roles, contributing to his continued success and wealth.
9. Yul Edochie
Full Name: Yul Chibuike Daniel Edochie
Date of Birth: January 7, 1982
Place of Birth: Anambra State, Nigeria
Occupation: Actor, Director, Politician
Estimated Net Worth (2025): $4 million
Yul Edochie, son of veteran actor Pete Edochie, has made a name for himself as one of Nollywood’s most talented performers. He began acting in the early 2000s and quickly rose to prominence through his deep voice and commanding screen presence.
In addition to acting, Yul is also a film director and politician. He has featured in numerous hit films and continues to be a major player in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
10. Pete Edochie
Full Name: Pete Edochie
Date of Birth: March 7, 1947
Place of Birth: Enugu State, Nigeria
Occupation: Actor, Broadcaster
Estimated Net Worth (2025): $3.5 million
Pete Edochie is widely regarded as one of the founding fathers of Nollywood. His role in Things Fall Apart in the 1980s brought him nationwide fame and opened doors for his legendary career.
Over the years, he has appeared in hundreds of movies and remains an influential figure in the entertainment industry. Pete’s wealth comes from decades of acting, public appearances, and brand endorsements.
Summary Table: Richest Actors in Nigeria and Their Net Worth (2025)
| Rank | Name | Occupation | Estimated Net Worth (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) | Actor, Politician | $15 million |
| 2 | Jim Iyke | Actor, Entrepreneur | $12 million |
| 3 | Desmond Elliot | Actor, Director, Politician | $10 million |
| 4 | Ramsey Nouah | Actor, Director | $8 million |
| 5 | Zubby Michael | Actor, Producer | $7 million |
| 6 | Kanayo O. Kanayo | Actor, Lawyer | $6 million |
| 7 | Chidi Mokeme | Actor, Model | $5 million |
| 8 | Nkem Owoh | Actor, Comedian | $4.5 million |
| 9 | Yul Edochie | Actor, Politician | $4 million |
| 10 | Pete Edochie | Actor | $3.5 million |
Conclusion
The richest actors in Nigeria have proven that Nollywood is not just about fame—it is also a platform for financial success and influence. From veteran legends like RMD and Pete Edochie to younger stars like Zubby Michael and Yul Edochie, these actors represent excellence, determination, and creativity.
Their ability to combine talent with business acumen has placed them among Africa’s most successful entertainers. As Nollywood continues to expand globally, the net worth of these stars is expected to grow even further in the coming years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is the richest actor in Nigeria in 2025?
The richest actor in Nigeria as of 2025 is Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), with an estimated net worth of $15 million.
2. Who is the most successful Nollywood actor?
RMD and Jim Iyke are often considered the most successful Nollywood actors due to their influence, wealth, and longevity.
3. Who is the richest young actor in Nigeria?
Zubby Michael is currently one of the richest young actors in Nigeria, with a net worth of around $7 million.
4. How do Nollywood actors make money?
They earn money through acting fees, film production, endorsements, business ventures, and brand promotions.
5. Who is the richest female actor in Nigeria?
Genevieve Nnaji and Omotola Jalade Ekeinde are among the richest female actors in Nigeria, each with multimillion-dollar net worths.
6. What is Jim Iyke’s net worth in 2025?
Jim Iyke’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $12 million.
7. Which Nigerian actor is also a politician?
Desmond Elliot and Yul Edochie are popular Nollywood actors who have ventured into politics.
8. Who is the oldest rich actor in Nigeria?
Pete Edochie, born in 1947, is the oldest and one of the most respected wealthy actors in Nigeria.
9. What makes Nollywood so profitable?
The industry’s rapid production rate, huge audience base, and international recognition have made it one of the most profitable film industries in the world.
10. Can Nollywood actors become millionaires?
Yes. With consistent roles, endorsements, and wise investments, Nollywood actors can become millionaires, as many on this list have proven.