The Nigerian movie industry, widely known as Nollywood, is globally recognized as one of the largest film industries by output. Among the many states that have produced elite talents in this thriving industry, Oyo State stands tall. This southwestern state is famed not only for its historical and cultural relevance but also for being the home and ancestral root of some of Nigeria’s finest and wealthiest actors and actresses.
These stars have graced television screens for decades, starred in blockbuster films, produced and directed movies, and secured multimillion-naira endorsement deals. In this blog post, we highlight the top actors and actresses from Oyo State whose influence in Nollywood is matched by their impressive financial standing.
1. Saheed Balogun – Estimated Net Worth: $5 Million
Veteran actor Saheed Balogun was born on February 5, 1967, in Oyo State. He is widely respected for his contributions to both Yoruba and English-language Nollywood films. His career started as a presenter of Youth Today on NTA, before transitioning into full-time acting and production.
Saheed Balogun is known for breaking boundaries in film production. He produced Modupe Temi, one of the earliest two-cast films in Nollywood, and Eti Keta, a three-cast film, both of which were creative milestones. His deep involvement in film directing and scripting has kept him relevant for decades.
Besides his film earnings, Saheed owns stakes in film equipment rentals, serves as a film consultant, and is a recurring brand ambassador. His influence on younger actors and his trailblazing contributions place him among the richest and most respected entertainers from Oyo State.
2. Jide Kosoko – Estimated Net Worth: $4 Million
Although born in Lagos Island, Prince Jide Kosoko is descended from a royal family with historical ties to Oyo. A true veteran of the industry, Kosoko has been acting since he was 10 years old. He has appeared in both English and Yoruba-language productions and is respected for his adaptability and longevity.
His notable appearances include roles in Ti Oluwa Ni Ile, Asiri Nla, and Ile Alayo. He is known for portraying fatherly, kingly, or authoritative characters with natural ease. Kosoko has remained a sought-after figure in Nollywood for over 50 years.
Jide Kosoko has multiple streams of income — from his acting royalties, film production investments, and brand ambassador deals to real estate holdings. His years of consistent success and industry loyalty make him one of the wealthiest and most influential actors connected to Oyo State.
3. Biodun Okeowo (Omobutty) – Estimated Net Worth: $3 Million
Biodun Okeowo, popularly known as Omobutty, is one of the most successful Yoruba actresses from Oyo State. She shot into prominence after starring in Tolani Osinrin and Omobutty, the latter becoming her trademark.
Omobutty is known for her elegant fashion sense and dramatic roles in Yoruba films. She has featured in over 100 movies, many of which she also produced. Beyond acting, Biodun is an astute businesswoman with investments in skincare and fashion.
Her social media influence is massive, with endorsements from multiple Nigerian brands and several self-launched businesses contributing to her growing wealth. As a single mother and career woman, her journey in Nollywood is as inspirational as it is financially rewarding.
4. Fausat Balogun (Madam Saje) – Estimated Net Worth: $2 Million
Fausat Balogun, affectionately known as Madam Saje, is another revered Nollywood veteran with deep roots in Oyo State. She began acting in the 1970s and gained nationwide fame through the popular Yoruba television series Erin Kee Kee.
Known for her role as a nurturing, sometimes stern mother figure, Madam Saje has appeared in hundreds of Yoruba-language films over her decades-long career. She continues to work with both veteran and new-generation actors, earning her place as one of the pillars of Yoruba cinema.
Despite her age, Madam Saje remains active in film production and makes guest appearances in online series and TV projects. Her wealth comes from acting, brand endorsements, and guest appearances in cultural and religious events.
5. Yinka Quadri – Estimated Net Worth: $2 Million
Yinka Quadri is a celebrated Yoruba actor and director born in Lagos to an Oyo parentage. He is best known for his unique voice and his deep portrayal of kingship roles in traditional Yoruba films. His acting career started in the early 1980s, and he has since directed and acted in countless classic Yoruba films.
Yinka Quadri was also a founding member of the Odunfa Caucus, one of the most influential acting schools and alliances in Yoruba Nollywood. Through this platform, he has trained dozens of successful actors and actresses.
His income streams include directing, film appearances, mentorship roles, and personal business ventures, including hospitality and farming. His influence and financial standing place him among Oyo State's richest actors.
6. Toyin Adegbola (Ajoke Asewo) – Estimated Net Worth: $1.8 Million
Toyin Adegbola, also known as Ajoke Asewo, is a respected Yoruba actress originally from Osun State but with strong career roots and residence in Oyo State, where she built much of her Nollywood profile.
She rose to fame in the 1990s and became a household name due to her powerful performances in Yoruba films. Toyin has appeared in over 150 movies and is involved in various community development and advocacy projects. Her wealth comes from her acting, endorsements, and political appointments within Oyo State’s cultural sector.
7. Lateef Adedimeji – Estimated Net Worth: $1.5 Million
Lateef Adedimeji, although born and raised in Lagos, hails from Oyo State. He is one of the most talented actors of his generation, known for his emotional expressions and versatility across drama, comedy, and action roles.
Lateef gained prominence through his performances in Yoruba-language dramas but has since become a crossover star in English-speaking films as well. He has starred in movies such as Ayinla, Jagun Jagun, and Progressive Tailors Club.
In addition to his acting income, Lateef is an ambassador for multiple brands, has made television commercials, and co-manages creative projects with his wife, actress Mo Bimpe. His consistent rise in Nollywood makes him a name to watch financially and artistically.
Summary Table: Richest Actors and Actresses from Oyo State (2025)
| Name | Estimated Net Worth | Profession | Notable Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saheed Balogun | $5 Million | Actor, Filmmaker | Modupe Temi, Eti Keta, Gbogbo Ere |
| Jide Kosoko | $4 Million | Actor, Producer | Ti Oluwa Ni Ile, Ile Alayo |
| Biodun Okeowo (Omobutty) | $3 Million | Actress, Entrepreneur | Tolani Osinrin, Omobutty |
| Fausat Balogun | $2 Million | Actress | Erin Kee Kee, Mama Saje |
| Yinka Quadri | $2 Million | Actor, Director | Oko Omo, Iku Ewa, Agbodorogun |
| Toyin Adegbola | $1.8 Million | Actress | Ajoke Asewo, Ebi Mi Ni |
| Lateef Adedimeji | $1.5 Million | Actor, Brand Influencer | Ayinla, Jagun Jagun, Progressive Tailors Club |
Final Thoughts
Oyo State has played an integral role in shaping the face of Nollywood through its talented actors and actresses. These individuals not only contribute creatively but also represent the entrepreneurial and resilient spirit that defines the entertainment industry in Nigeria. With several blockbuster movies, thriving businesses, and ongoing projects, the future remains bright for Oyo State’s finest.
Whether in front of the camera or behind it, these stars continue to shine — and as their influence grows, so does their wealth. For fans, aspiring actors, and culture enthusiasts, their stories offer both entertainment and inspiration.
