Imo State, located in southeastern Nigeria, is not only known for its rich Igbo culture, hospitality, and industrious people—it is also the home state of some of the most iconic and financially successful Nollywood stars. These actors and actresses have not only made waves in the film industry but have also built wealth through endorsements, entrepreneurship, and global recognition.
In this post, we take an in-depth look at the richest actors and actresses who hail from Imo State. From the legendary Genevieve Nnaji to comedic sensations like Osita Iheme and Okey Bakassi, Imo is indeed blessed with some of Nigeria’s finest talents.
Let’s dive in.
1. Genevieve Nnaji – Net Worth: $15 Million
Genevieve Nnaji is arguably the most successful actress in Nigeria, both financially and professionally. Born on May 3, 1979, in Mbaise, Imo State, she started her acting career at the age of eight and rose to stardom with her role in the movie Sharon Stone.
With over two decades in the industry, Genevieve has featured in more than 100 Nollywood films. However, what truly set her apart was her transition into film production and direction. In 2018, she made history with Lionheart, Nigeria’s first-ever Netflix original, which was reportedly acquired for $3.8 million.
Genevieve is also a savvy businesswoman. Her fashion line, St. Genevieve, promotes African fashion and contributes to her growing empire. Add multiple endorsement deals with brands like Lux, Etisalat, and Amstel Malta, and it's no surprise she leads the list with an estimated net worth of $15 million.
2. Rita Dominic – Net Worth: $9.5 Million
Rita Uchenna Nkem Dominic Nwaturuocha, a member of the royal Nwaturuocha family of Imo State, is another big name in Nollywood. Born on July 12, 1975, Rita Dominic has been in the movie industry since the late '90s and has won numerous awards for her roles in both English and indigenous films.
She co-founded The Audrey Silva Company, a media firm focused on telling African stories. Rita Dominic has been the face of several brands and secured endorsements with companies like Glo and BK Unique Hair. Her versatility, royal background, and business sense have helped her build a net worth of $9.5 million.
3. Osita Iheme (Pawpaw) – Net Worth: $6 Million
Osita Iheme, popularly known as "Pawpaw", was born on February 20, 1982, in Mbaitoli, Imo State. He rose to fame alongside Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki) in the hit movie Aki na Ukwa. Since then, he has appeared in over 100 movies and built a unique brand around his comic persona.
What many people don’t know is that Osita is also an astute businessman. He owns a five-star hotel in Owerri and has invested heavily in real estate. In addition, he's an author and motivational speaker, with his book Inspired 101 aimed at empowering young Nigerians. These endeavors place his net worth at an impressive $6 million.
4. Kanayo O. Kanayo – Net Worth: $3.5 Million
Anayo Modestus Onyekwere, famously known as Kanayo O. Kanayo, is a veteran actor born on March 1, 1962, in Mbaise, Imo State. Known for playing ritualistic characters in movies, he has carved a niche for himself as one of Nollywood’s most iconic actors.
Kanayo has received numerous awards, including the African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in 2006. He is also a trained lawyer and politician. Combining his entertainment income with his legal and political ventures, Kanayo has built a net worth of around $3.5 million.
5. Victor Osuagwu – Net Worth: $2 Million
Victor Osuagwu is a renowned Nollywood comic actor and a native of Imo State. He broke into the industry in the 1990s and quickly became known for his funny facial expressions and hilarious dialogue.
Beyond acting, Victor has held leadership roles in the Actors Guild of Nigeria and served as a Glo brand ambassador. His contributions to Nollywood and endorsement deals have helped him amass a fortune estimated at $2 million.
6. Okey Bakassi – Net Worth: $1.5 Million
Okey Bakassi, whose full name is Okechukwu Anthony Onyegbule, is a seasoned comedian, actor, and politician. He was born on October 23, 1969, in Owerri, Imo State.
His acting career began in the 1990s, and he has since diversified into stand-up comedy and public service. He once served as Senior Special Assistant on Entertainment to the Imo State Governor. In 2014, he won Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) at the Best of Nollywood Awards.
Okey’s influence in entertainment and politics, combined with business and media appearances, has earned him a net worth of $1.5 million.
7. Adesua Etomi-Wellington – Net Worth: $2.4 Million
Although Adesua Etomi was born in Owerri, Imo State, on February 22, 1986, many people associate her more with Lagos due to her celebrity lifestyle and marriage to musician Banky W. Nevertheless, her roots in Imo are significant.
Adesua is a talented actress with multiple awards, including the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA). She has featured in blockbuster movies such as The Wedding Party, Falling, and Sugar Rush. Her net worth, including earnings from endorsements, acting, and appearances, is pegged at around $2.4 million.
8. Enyinna Nwigwe – Net Worth: $1 Million
Enyinna Nwigwe was born on September 18, 1982, in Ngor Okpala, Imo State. He is one of the most stylish and talented actors in Nollywood today. With roles in The Wedding Party 2, Black November, and Eagle Wings, Enyinna is gradually cementing his place among Nigeria's elite actors.
Outside acting, he is a fashion influencer, model, and brand ambassador. These activities, coupled with his growing film portfolio, put his net worth at approximately $1 million.
Summary Table: Richest Actors and Actresses in Imo State
| Rank | Name | Net Worth (USD) | Notable Work | Profession(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genevieve Nnaji | $15 Million | Lionheart, Sharon Stone | Actress, Director, Entrepreneur |
| 2 | Rita Dominic | $9.5 Million | The Meeting, 76 | Actress, Producer |
| 3 | Osita Iheme | $6 Million | Aki na Ukwa | Actor, Author, Entrepreneur |
| 4 | Kanayo O. Kanayo | $3.5 Million | Family Battle, Living in Bondage | Actor, Lawyer, Politician |
| 5 | Adesua Etomi-Wellington | $2.4 Million | The Wedding Party, Falling | Actress |
| 6 | Victor Osuagwu | $2 Million | My Classmate, Awilo Sharp Sharp | Actor, Comedian |
| 7 | Okey Bakassi | $1.5 Million | Onye Ozi, Oke USA | Comedian, Actor, Politician |
| 8 | Enyinna Nwigwe | $1 Million | Black November, The Wedding Party 2 | Actor, Model, Influencer |
Final Thoughts
Imo State continues to shine in Nollywood through the talents and achievements of its sons and daughters. These actors and actresses have gone beyond just entertaining us—they've built empires, broken boundaries, and placed Nigerian cinema on the global map. Their journeys from small-town beginnings to international acclaim serve as an inspiration to millions across Nigeria and beyond.
Whether through acting, business, or politics, these Imo-born celebrities prove that with talent, hard work, and vision, success is attainable—regardless of one’s origin.
