Top 10 Most Popular Nigerian Celebrities from Imo State

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Imo State, the “Eastern Heartland,” is known for more than just its rich culture and warm hospitality. It’s a land that breeds confidence, creativity, and charisma. From music to movies and comedy to fashion, this small but mighty state in southeastern Nigeria has produced some of the biggest names on the African entertainment scene.

If you’ve ever wondered which Nigerian celebrities proudly trace their roots to Imo, this list will make you even prouder to be Nigerian.

Let’s explore 10 of the most popular and successful Nigerian celebrities from Imo State, their humble beginnings, their rise to fame, and how they’ve made Imo shine across the world.

Top 10 Most Popular Nigerian Celebrities from Imo State

1. Genevieve Nnaji—The Queen of Nollywood (Mbaise, Imo State)

When you think of “Nollywood royalty,” Genevieve Nnaji’s name stands tall. Born in Mbaise, Imo State, Genevieve started acting as a teenager and became one of the most recognisable faces in African cinema.

She made history when her directorial debut, Lionheart, became Netflix’s first Nigerian original film and was also Nigeria’s submission to the Oscars in 2019.

Beyond her film career, Genevieve is a symbol of grace and quiet power. She’s been a UN Ambassador for women’s empowerment and has used her platform to promote Nigerian culture worldwide.

Today, whether she’s producing, acting, or simply disappearing into creative silence, Genevieve remains the pride of Imo State and a role model to millions.

2. Rita Dominic – The Elegant Star (Aboh-Mbaise, Imo State)

Rita Dominic, another screen goddess, also hails from Aboh-Mbaise. She comes from the prestigious Nwaturuocha royal family, and it shows in her poise and elegance.

Rita started acting as a child and went on to become one of Nollywood’s most respected figures, with multiple awards to her name, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role.

She has starred in hit movies like The Meeting, Shattered, and 76. Beyond acting, Rita is a producer and co-founder of The Audrey Silva Company, a production company focused on telling authentic African stories.

Her contribution to Nigerian cinema has made her not only a celebrity but a cultural ambassador for Imo State.

 

3. Chidinma Ekile – Miss Kedike Herself (Owerri, Imo State)

Born in Ketu, Lagos, but proudly from Imo State, Chidinma rose to fame after winning MTN Project Fame West Africa in 2010. Her hit song, “Kedike”, made her a household name, earning her the nickname “Miss Kedike”.

Chidinma became one of the first female musicians in Nigeria to blend soul, pop, and Afrocentric sounds effortlessly.

In recent years, she shifted her music to gospel, inspiring fans with her strong Christian faith. Her journey from a shy young contestant to a nationally celebrated artist shows the determined spirit Imo people are known for.

 

4. Okey Bakassi—The Comedy Veteran (Mbaise, Imo State)

Okechukwu Anthony Onyegbule, popularly known as Okey Bakassi, is another proud son of Imo. Born and raised in Mbaise, he started his entertainment journey in the 1990s and helped pioneer stand-up comedy in Nigeria.

Known for his witty delivery and relatable jokes, Okey has remained one of the country’s most consistent entertainers. He’s also an actor and television host, with multiple awards to his name, including Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) at the Best of Nollywood Awards.

Whether on stage or on screen, Okey Bakassi proves that laughter truly runs in Imo blood.

 

5. Stephanie Okereke Linus—The Powerhouse Actress (Ngor Okpala, Imo State)

Stephanie Okereke Linus, born in Ngor Okpala, is another shining example of an Imo-born star making waves globally.

A celebrated actress, filmmaker, and humanitarian, Stephanie has won multiple awards for her acting and her groundbreaking film Dry, which tackles the issue of child marriage.

She’s also a United Nations Ambassador and a strong voice for women’s rights and education. Her dedication to telling meaningful stories has made her one of the most respected Nigerian celebrities from Imo State.

Stephanie represents the perfect blend of talent, intelligence, and compassion, the true Imo spirit.

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6. Cubana Chief Priest—The Celebrity Barman (Orsu, Imo State)

If there’s one name that dominates nightlife and luxury talk in Nigeria, it’s Cubana Chief Priest—real name Pascal Okechukwu. Born in the Orsu LGA of Imo State, he built his empire from scratch.

He started as the general manager at Cubana Group in Owerri and later launched his entertainment brand, Club Xhrine. His charisma, energy, and generosity have made him a social media sensation.

Cubana Chief Priest is not just about parties and champagne; he’s also a businessman who invests in hospitality, music, and fashion.

Today, he’s a symbol of Imo hustle, turning nightlife into a multimillion-naira empire.

 

7. Linda Ikeji—The Blogging Mogul (Nkwerre, Imo State)

From a small town in Nkwerre, Imo State, Linda Ikeji rose from humble beginnings to become one of Africa’s most influential media entrepreneurs.

She started as a blogger when blogging wasn’t even considered a career. Her blog, Linda Ikeji’s Blog, turned her into a household name, redefining how Nigerians consume celebrity news and entertainment.

Linda built an empire through determination and wise business choices, launching Linda Ikeji TV and Linda Ikeji Social.

Her journey from a simple blogger to a media mogul perfectly captures the Imo dream: bold, fearless, and unshakeable.

 

8. Osita Iheme – Pawpaw of Nollywood (Mbaitoli, Imo State)

Osita Iheme, famously known as Pawpaw, is one of Nollywood’s most iconic figures. Born in Mbaitoli, Imo State, Osita rose to fame after starring in the comedy classic Aki na Ukwa alongside Chinedu Ikedieze.

His humour, expressions, and wit turned him into a global meme and social media sensation, loved far beyond Nigeria.

He’s also an author, philanthropist, and hotel owner. Osita has inspired millions with his confidence and creativity, breaking stereotypes and showing that talent knows no size.

He remains one of the proudest exports from Imo State.

 

9. Kanayo O. Kanayo – The Veteran Actor (Nwangele, Imo State)

Kanayo O. Kanayo (real name Anayo Modestus Onyekwere) is a Nollywood legend born in Nwangele, Imo State.

He gained fame in the 1990s for his memorable roles, often as the mysterious, wealthy man in films, though over time, he’s become known as a disciplined actor and mentor.

A trained lawyer and national award recipient (MFR), Kanayo has dedicated decades to shaping the Nigerian movie industry. His name alone sparks nostalgia and respect.

He’s proof that consistency and hard work never go out of style, values deeply rooted in Imo culture.

 

10. Luchy Donalds – The New Nollywood Face (Owerri North, Imo State)

Luchy Donalds, born in Emii, Owerri, North LGA, is one of the new generation actresses making waves in Nollywood. She started her career in 2015 and has since starred in several notable films, gaining a loyal fan base for her authenticity and natural charm.

What makes Luchy stand out is her connection to her cultural roots. She often takes on roles that reflect traditional Igbo family values, and she’s proud to represent Imo wherever she goes.

In a short time, she’s become a symbol of Imo’s new-age entertainment, beauty, confidence, and consistency.

 

Imo State: The Land of Stars

From Mbaise to Orlu and Owerri to Ngor Okpala, Imo State continues to produce some of Nigeria’s finest talents.

What connects them all is a mix of confidence, creativity, and strong cultural pride. These celebrities have not only entertained millions but also inspired countless young Nigerians to dream big, regardless of where they come from.

Despite Imo’s modest size, its influence on Nigerian entertainment is immense.

 

FAQs About Nigerian Celebrities from Imo State

Q1: Which celebrity is the most famous from Imo State?

Genevieve Nnaji and Rita Dominic are widely regarded as the most globally recognised celebrities from Imo State.

Q2: Are there musicians from Imo State?

Yes! Chidinma Ekile, Kcee, and Cubana Chief Priest (in the entertainment space) are proudly from Imo.

Q3: What towns in Imo have produced the most celebrities?

Mbaise, Aboh-Mbaise, Ngor Okpala, and Owerri stand out as the top origins of Imo-born stars.

Q4: Are there comedians from Imo State?

Yes, Osita Iheme (Pawpaw) is both a comic actor and a major entertainment figure from Imo.

Q5: Why are there so many stars from Imo State?

Imo, people are naturally expressive, artistic, and driven by excellence. Their culture values creativity and education, a mix that breeds greatness.