Choosing the best actor in Nigeria is no small task because Nollywood is blessed with an incredible lineup of stars. Yet, certain actors stand out—not just for their ability to embody diverse characters, but also for their charisma, relatability, and undeniable impact on the industry. For this ranking, we’ve considered three key criteria:
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Versatility: the ability to fit into and convincingly interpret different roles.
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Depth: the ability to bring characters to life with authenticity and emotional weight.
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Audience connection: how loved and celebrated the actor is, both in Nigeria and abroad.
Here’s our countdown of the Top 10 Best Nollywood Actors in Nigeria today.
Who is the Best Actor in Nigeria? Meet the Top 10
10. Bolanle Ninalowo – Net Worth: $5 Million
Bolanle Ninalowo, popularly known as Nino B, is one of Nollywood’s leading men. Before making his mark in the entertainment industry, Ninalowo worked as a banker both in the United States and in Nigeria. He made his official Nollywood debut in 2010 as a producer with the movie Rebirth, before fully stepping into acting.
What makes Ninalowo exceptional is his ability to balance Yoruba epic films with contemporary English-language Nollywood productions. From romantic leads to intense family dramas, he adapts with ease. His charisma and bold screen presence have often drawn comparisons with the legendary Jim Iyke of Nollywood’s earlier era.
Beyond acting, Ninalowo has become a style icon, brand ambassador, and a household name—proof that Nollywood stars today are more than actors, they are multi-dimensional entertainers. Bolanle is also among the richest yoruba movie actors.
9. Onny Michael – Net Worth: $500,000
Onuchukwu Michael Okpokwu, better known as Onny Michael, is a true Nollywood veteran. He began his career in the 1990s, starting with small roles before gradually moving into more significant characters. His perseverance has paid off, as he is now celebrated for his versatility.
Onny’s range includes roles as a prince, king, businessman, lover boy, or action hero. His ability to take on both romantic and action-oriented roles makes him a well-rounded actor. He has also directed and produced films, showing his commitment to expanding Nollywood’s creative boundaries.
For many fans, Onny Michael represents the classic Nollywood charm: expressive, believable, and deeply engaging in his performances.
8. Stephen Odimgbe is one of the Best Actor in Nigeria – Net Worth: $1 Million
Popularly called Flashboy, Stephen Odimgbe is one of Nollywood’s rising stars. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Stephen officially entered the industry much later—around 2015—but quickly rose to prominence thanks to his good looks, natural acting talent, and strong educational background in Theatre Arts.
Stephen thrives in romantic dramas and youth-centered films, often playing the charismatic lover boy or a conflicted young man. His presence on screen appeals especially to younger audiences, making him one of the industry’s fastest-growing stars. Though still relatively new compared to veterans, Stephen Odimgbe’s trajectory suggests he’s here to stay and will likely become a major Nollywood figure in the years to come.
7. Jerry Williams – Net Worth: $500,000
Jerry Williams is an example of passion triumphing over circumstances. A graduate of Mechanical Engineering from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Jerry began his acting career in 2009 while still in school. It wasn’t easy balancing academics and acting, but his determination saw him through.
Initially cast in minor roles, Jerry eventually broke through with his role as a chief guard in Seven Books of Moses. Since then, he has carved a niche for himself in both epic films and urban contemporary movies.
Jerry’s ability to convincingly portray both traditional and modern roles has made him a household name. With every performance, he continues to expand his influence in Nollywood.
6. Ken Erics – Net Worth: $600,000
Ken Erics, full name Ekenedilichukwu Ugochukwu Eric Nwenweh, is a scholar-actor with both a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts and a Master’s in Theatre and Film Studies. His academic training gives him an edge in his ability to deeply understand and interpret characters.
Ken Erics began acting in 2001 but rose to fame with The Illiterate, where his emotional delivery won the hearts of audiences. He is known for roles in family dramas, romantic films, and epic stories, always bringing depth and nuance.
Beyond acting, Ken Erics is also a talented singer and writer, making him one of Nollywood’s most multi-talented stars. His dedication to the craft is evident, and his fan base is one of the most loyal in Nigeria.
5. Sylvester Madu one of the Best Actor in Nigeria
– Net Worth: $800,000
Sylvester Madu, often called Nollywood’s “James Bond,” is a legend of the action genre. Though he began acting as a child, he officially joined Nollywood in 1998. Since then, he has become synonymous with roles involving gangsters, cultists, militants, and armed robbers.
What makes Madu unique is his ability to handle these tough roles with a balance of intensity and humanity. Even when playing ruthless characters, he injects a sense of realism and emotion that makes audiences relate. As both an actor and director, Sylvester Madu has shaped Nollywood’s action film identity, a sub-genre that remains a fan favorite.
4. Frederick Leonard – Net Worth: $500,000
Frederick Leonard embodies class and precision. Tall, handsome, and charismatic, Leonard made his Nollywood debut in 2001 before taking a break to focus on his studies. He returned in 2008 and soon gained attention for his leading role in Indian Doctor.
Over the years, Leonard has carefully selected roles, preferring quality over quantity. From romantic dramas to epics and family sagas, his versatility shines through. His meticulous approach has earned him awards such as:
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Best Supporting Actor at the 2014 Golden Icons Academy Awards
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Best Actor at the 2016 Zulu African Film Academy Awards
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Best Supporting Actor at the 2016 City People Movie Awards
Frederick Leonard is proof that in Nollywood, talent paired with discipline leads to longevity.
3. Yul Edochie – Net Worth: $2 Million
Yul Edochie, son of the legendary Pete Edochie, has built a career that reflects both heritage and individuality. He began acting in 2005 but broke through in 2007 with Wind of Glory, which starred Genevieve Nnaji and Desmond Elliot.
Yul studied Dramatic Arts at the university, giving him a strong foundation. His commanding voice, striking looks, and versatility allow him to excel in epics, political dramas, action films, and family stories.
Beyond acting, Yul is also a director, politician, and public speaker, using his platform to influence conversations in Nigeria. His ability to merge entertainment with leadership makes him one of Nollywood’s most dynamic figures.
2. Zubby Michael – Net Worth: $1 Million
Azubuike Michael Egwu, popularly known as Zubby Michael, is Nollywood’s current action king. His breakout role came in Three Widows, and since then, he has dominated the screens with his energetic performances.
Zubby is best known for his intensity and versatility—playing roles ranging from a gangster to a prince, from a ritualist to a madman. His ability to seamlessly switch between roles is why many fans consider him the best Nollywood actor today.
He has received multiple awards, including:
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Movie Icon of the Year – 2018 South East Entertainment Award
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Nollywood Personality of the Year – 2018 Nigerian MSMEs & Achievers Awards
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Best Celebrity Politician of the Year – 2020 South-East Beauty Pageant Organization
With his growing political career and continued dominance in Nollywood, Zubby Michael is more than just an actor—he is a cultural figure.
1. Nkem Owoh (Osuofia) – Honorary Mention
Although not part of the younger set dominating today’s screens, it’s impossible to talk about Nollywood greatness without mentioning legends like Pete Edochie, Nkem Owoh, or Chinedu Ikedieze. Their impact continues to inspire the younger generation and shape the industry. RECOMMENDED: Top 10 Funnies Actors and Actresses of All Time.
Conclusion about Who is the Best Actor in Nigeria?
The debate about who the best Nollywood actor is will always continue, but one thing is clear: Nollywood is blessed with extraordinary talent. From the action-packed roles of Sylvester Madu and Zubby Michael, to the sophistication of Frederick Leonard, to the versatility of Yul Edochie—each actor brings something unique.
As Nollywood expands globally, these actors are not only entertaining audiences but also carrying Nigerian culture across the world. Their contributions highlight the richness of African storytelling and ensure that Nollywood remains one of the most vibrant film industries in the world. Who is your favorite Nollywood actor on this list? Do you agree that Zubby Michael leads the pack today, or do you think someone else deserves the crown? Share your thoughts in the comments.
