Top 10 Richest Igbo Actors in Nollywood (2025)

When it comes to Nollywood, Igbo actors have long held the spotlight—blazing a trail with brilliance, versatility, and unapologetic star power. From heartfelt dramas to action-packed blockbusters, these actors have consistently delivered performances that earn both critical praise and bankable paydays. It’s no wonder Nollywood’s elite roster is packed with Igbo talent who, beyond captivating audiences, have also built impressive wealth. In this article, we delve into the richest Igbo actors in Nollywood, examining who they are, their ranking among the richest Igbo movie actors of 2025, and the source of their wealth.

 

Ranking Richest Igbo Movie Actors (2025)

While precise financial data is often private, prominent and wealthy Igbo actors in Nollywood include those listed below, based on their success, endorsements, business ventures, and public recognition as top earners. 

1. Jim Iyke – Estimated Net Worth: $30 million

Topping the list is Jim Iyke, with an estimated net worth of $30 million. Renowned for his “bad boy” persona, Jim has starred in over 150 Nollywood films. His wealth isn’t just from acting—he owns a production company, record label, and fashion line. He holds high-value real estate, powering his position among the top-earning Igbo actors in Nigerian cinema.

2. Genevieve Nnaji – Estimated Net Worth: $15 million

Next up is Genevieve Nnaji, one of Nollywood’s most iconic faces. She has an estimated net worth of $15 million. Her success spans acting, producing, and directing—most notably with her film Lionheart, which gained international acclaim. She also benefits from high-profile endorsements with global brands like Range Rover and DSTV.

3. Zubby Michael – Estimated Net Worth: $9.6 million

Zubby Michael‘s estimated net worth for 2025 is not consistently available across sources, but various reports from mid-to-late 2024 place it between $3.9 million and $9.6 million. We attribute these figures to his successful acting career, film production, brand endorsements, and real estate ventures. His roles in action films and endorsement deals position him solidly among the rich Igbo actors.

4. Rita Dominic – Estimated Net Worth: $7.5 million

Rita Dominic‘s estimated net worth is $7.5 million as of early 2025, according to recent estimations. This figure places her among the top Nollywood actresses and reflects her extensive career and recognition in the Nigerian film industry. 

5. Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD)—Estimated Net Worth: $7 million 

Richard Eyimofe Evans Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, is one of the wealthiest actors in Nigeria. He has an estimated net worth of $7 million, making him one of the wealthiest actors in Nigeria and on the African continent. RMD has built his wealth through acting, his production companies, political appointments, brand endorsement deals, and more. He has been a brand ambassador for top companies like LG Electronics, Schweppes, Zaron Cosmetics, and others. In addition, RMD earns income from his roles as an honourable commissioner and special adviser in Delta State.

6. Patience Ozokwor – Estimated Net Worth: $5.8 million

Also known affectionately as “Mama G”, Patience Ozokwor holds an estimated net worth of $5.8 million, built through prolific acting roles and endorsements. She is ranked among Nollywood’s highest-paid actresses thanks to her incredible acting talent and versatility. Her hilarious comic roles, coupled with her villainous acting roles, make her a favourite among movie directors and producers. She has so many movies under her belt since starting off her career, averaging nearly 10 movies annually.

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7. Nkem Owoh – Estimated Net Worth: $4.5 million

Veteran actor Nkem Owoh “Osuofia” is estimated at $4.5 million. He is a highly respected Nollywood actor known for his comedic roles in movies and his consistent delivery of excellent performances, regardless of the role. His veteran status in Nollywood spans nearly three decades and 100 films, earning him the reputation as one of the highest-paid Igbo actors per movie role.

8. Pete Edochie – Estimated Net Worth: $4 million

Iconic veteran actor Pete Edochie ranks seventh on the list with an estimated net worth of $4 million in 2024. Now in his 70s, Pete Edochie is unarguably one of Africa’s greatest actors, having played lead roles in over 100 films since debuting his acting career in the 1980s. His net worth comes primarily from earnings made during his prime years in Nollywood, coupled with income still generated from endorsement deals with multinational companies. He is considered a ‘godfather’ in Nollywood and has groomed many younger actors under his tutelage. 

9. Osita Iheme – Estimated Net Worth: $3 million

Part of the legendary duo “Aki and Pawpaw”, Osita Iheme is estimated at $3 million, banking on film roles and wise investments. Osita, who is often cast in ‘houseboy’ roles, charges between $15,000 and $25,000 per movie, grossing millions over his nearly 2-decade acting career. His investments in landed property and various businesses also contribute to his wealth.

 

10. Kanayo O. Kanayo – $3 million 

Kanayo O. Kanayo holds an estimated $3 million, with earnings from acting and endorsements. Kanayo O Kanayo occupies the ninth position. He is a lawyer-turned-actor; he is a consummate actor who excels at interpreting his roles. His commanding voice and serious roles, playing rich villains, corrupt chiefs, and nobles, have made him one of Nollywood’s most relevant actors. His earnings come primarily from acting and endorsements.

 

Wealth Sources: Acting, Endorsements & Business

How do these stars convert fame into fortune? Let’s break down the main revenue streams:

• Acting Fees & Productions

Leading actors like Jim Iyke and Rita Dominic command premium fees per film and often produce their own content. People celebrate Nkem Owoh, Pete Edochie, Osita Iheme, and others for their prolific output over decades, which ensures a steady stream of acting revenue.

• Brand Endorsements

Many stars supplement with brand deals. Genevieve Nnaji partners with Range Rover and DSTV, Nkem Owoh has a longstanding deal with MTN, and others like Rita Dominic and Patience Ozokwor are also brand ambassadors—boosting their earnings significantly.

• Business Ventures & Investments

Some of these actors also run different business ventures and investments, such as: 

• Jim Iyke: runs a record label, clothing line, production company, and invests in real estate
• Genevieve Nnaji: produces and directs, notably with her internationally streamed film Lionheart.
• Stars like Osita Iheme, Zubby Micheal and Nkem Owoh invest in property and host events or lecture series.

 

Conclusion: Richest Igbo Actors in Nollywood

The richest Igbo actors in Nollywood are a blend of icons and modern stars—from Jim Iyke’s $30 million empire to Kanayo’s evolving $3 million portfolio. Their wealth isn’t just derived from on-screen roles. Smart moves in production, endorsements, businesses, and real estate form the foundation of their net worth. Diverse revenue strategies, significant productions (such as Lionheart), brand collaborations, and entrepreneurship fuel sustained growth. 

This curated ranking of the richest Igbo movie actors in 2025 illustrates how Nollywood stars leverage talent, brand, and business savvy to become cultural and financial powerhouses.

 

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FAQs About Igbo Actors’ Net Worth 2025

1: Who is the richest Igbo actor in Nollywood as of 2025?

Jim Iyke leads the pack with an estimated net worth of around $30 million 

2: Which Igbo actor ranks second in net worth?

Genevieve Nnaji is second, with an estimated $15 million.

3: What are the primary sources of income for the richest Igbo actors?

Their wealth stems from high-earning acting roles, production ventures, endorsements (e.g., MTN and Range Rover), business ventures (including fashion, real estate, and production companies), and often event hosting or inspirational speaking engagements. 

4: Do any of these actors earn from non-entertainment ventures?

Yes. For example, Jim Iyke runs a clothing line and record label, Genevieve directs and produces, Stephanie Okereke owns a production house, and investment in real estate is common among several, like Jim Iyke and Osita Iheme.