When it comes to Nigerian cinema, one thing Nollywood has never lacked is humor. From slapstick comedy to witty dialogue, the industry has given us actors and actresses whose performances are so naturally hilarious that they’ve become unforgettable. These legends—whether still with us or gone too soon—have managed to bring laughter into our homes, leaving a legacy that continues to shape the Nigerian film industry.
This article counts down the Top 10 Funniest Nollywood Actors and Actresses of All Time. More than just entertainers, these stars represent the comedic backbone of Nollywood, proving that laughter truly is universal.
10. Funke Akindele
Akindele Olufunke Ayotunde—known simply as Funke Akindele—is one of the brightest comedic forces in Nollywood. Though she is a versatile actress capable of handling both dramatic and serious roles, her true magic shines in comedy.
Her breakout came with the movie Jenifa, where she played a village girl struggling to fit into the city lifestyle. The role was so iconic that it birthed not only a franchise but also a TV series (Jenifa’s Diary), cementing her as a household name. Funke’s humor is multilayered—she combines physical comedy, witty dialogue, and exaggerated expressions that resonate with audiences across class and culture.
Beyond acting, she has also ventured into producing and directing, building one of Nollywood’s most successful filmographies. Movies like Sherikoko, Maami, and Married but Living Single show her range, but it is her comic persona that Nigerians and international fans remember most.
Why she makes the list: Funke Akindele isn’t just funny—she redefined what it means to be a female comedian in Nollywood, carving out a lane for women in an industry where male comedy giants had dominated for years. READ MORE about Funke Akindele Biography and come up story.
9. Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki)
Standing small in stature but mighty in impact, Chinedu Ikedieze, popularly called Aki, is a comedy legend. Alongside his longtime partner Osita Iheme (Pawpaw), Aki redefined Nollywood humor in the early 2000s. Their breakout film, Aki na Ukwa, remains a cultural landmark—its scenes and quotes are still referenced today.
Aki’s comedic power lies in his ability to deliver sharp, mischievous performances. Whether playing a stubborn child, a cheeky trickster, or an overconfident adult in a child’s body, Aki has an energy that lights up the screen. Beyond his collaborations with Osita, he has starred in Spanner, The Johnsons, Magic Cap, and Jack and Jill, consistently making audiences laugh.
Why he makes the list: Aki’s comedy transcends stereotypes. Despite often being typecast, he turned limitations into opportunities, proving that great humor doesn’t depend on size but on talent and delivery.
8. Eniola Badmus
Popularly known as “Gbogbo Bigz Girlz”, Eniola Badmus burst into fame through her role in Jenifa. Her unique comedic style blends sarcasm, exaggerated expressions, and physical humor.
What sets Eniola apart is her relatability. Her characters often embody everyday struggles—be it love, money, or societal pressures—but with a twist of comedy that makes them unforgettable. Her performance in Basira Goes to Londonshowcased her ability to carry an entire film, proving she isn’t just a sidekick but a leading comedy actress.
Why she makes the list: Eniola’s humor is organic. From her body language to her distinct way of speaking, she brings a natural authenticity to every role. She’s the kind of actress whose mere presence on a movie poster excites her fans.
7. Osita Iheme (Pawpaw)
Few Nollywood actors have achieved global meme status like Osita Iheme. Known to many as Pawpaw, his role in Aki na Ukwa turned him into an international comedy icon.
Osita’s genius lies in his versatility. While his small stature led him to play childlike roles, he evolved over the years to take on more mature and diverse characters. From Baby Police to The Johnsons, his performances always deliver laughter. Unlike many comedians, Osita doesn’t rely solely on slapstick; his timing, facial expressions, and ability to balance mischief with innocence are what make him hilarious.
Why he makes the list: Osita Iheme isn’t just funny—he is timeless. His memes and clips circulate globally on social media, making him one of Nollywood’s most recognizable comedy exports.
6. Patience Ozokwor (Mama G)
While she is often remembered as Nollywood’s quintessential “wicked mother-in-law,” Patience Ozokwor, fondly known as Mama G, has also given audiences some of the funniest moments in Nigerian cinema.
Her comedy is often unintentional. Even in serious roles, her exaggerated scolding, unique voice, and dramatic body language produce laughter. Whether she’s plotting trouble or scheming against a rival, there’s always a comedic undertone to her performance.
Why she makes the list: Patience’s gift lies in making “wickedness funny.” She turns cruelty into comedy without diluting the authenticity of her roles, a rare skill in acting.
5. Victor Osuagwu
Victor Osuagwu is one of those actors whose face alone can trigger laughter. Known for his roles in Onye Eze and Face to Face, he has consistently delivered performances that blur the line between comedy and clownery.
Victor’s strength is his fearlessness—he embraces physical humor, awkward costumes, and exaggerated expressions without hesitation. Over time, this made him one of Nollywood’s most bankable comedy stars, even becoming chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) Lagos chapter.
Why he makes the list: Osuagwu represents the “everyman comedian”—his humor is raw, relatable, and sometimes ridiculous, but always effective.
4. Chiwetalu Agu
No list of Nollywood comedians is complete without Chiwetalu Agu. A veteran actor with decades in the industry, Agu’s comedy is rooted in language—his endless use of catchphrases, slangs, and innuendos have become cultural staples.
But beyond words, his mischievous characters, often causing chaos and confusion, make him an unforgettable figure. His performance style has been recognized by academics like Prof. Femi Shaka, who highlighted Agu’s role in promoting Nigerian culture through comedy.
Why he makes the list: Agu’s humor is intellectual yet accessible. He entertains while preserving indigenous culture through his language and mannerisms.
3. John Okafor (Mr Ibu)
When people think of Nollywood comedy, one name often comes to mind: Mr Ibu. The late John Okafor created a comedic persona so iconic that he became the face of Nigerian humor.
Everything about him was funny—his awkward walk, confused facial expressions, and silly mannerisms. His roles in movies like Mr Ibu and countless others showcased his unique brand of humor, often characterized by foolishness and absurdity.
Why he makes the list: Mr Ibu was universal. From children to adults, everyone laughed at his antics. Even people who rarely watch Nollywood knew him, proving the reach of his comedy.
2. Sam Loco Efe (RIP)
The late Sam Loco Efe remains one of Nollywood’s most celebrated comedians. Known for his sharp wit, impeccable timing, and ability to switch between serious and funny roles, Sam Loco elevated Nigerian comedy to an art form.
His performances in Games Fools Play, Long John, and Old Cargo were masterpieces of both humor and intelligence. Unlike slapstick comedians, Sam Loco’s humor was often subtle, relying on clever dialogue and sharp delivery.
Why he makes the list: Sam Loco was more than a funny man—he was a teacher of comedy. His influence continues to inspire generations of Nollywood actors.
1. Nkem Owoh (Osuofia)
At the very top of this list sits Nkem Owoh, popularly known as Osuofia. With films like Osuofia in London, Ukwa, and Spanner, Nkem Owoh has become synonymous with Nollywood comedy.
His humor is natural, never forced. Whether playing a cunning villager, a confused traveler, or a stubborn father, Osuofia has an unmatched ability to turn ordinary situations into hilarious chaos. His role in Osuofia in London became an international sensation, bridging Nollywood with global audiences.
Why he makes the list: Nkem Owoh isn’t just Nollywood’s funniest man—he’s its comedy ambassador. His legacy continues to shape the industry, making him the undisputed king of Nigerian comedy.
Conclusion about Funniest Nollywood Actors And Actresses Of All Time
Nollywood has produced countless actors and actresses, but these ten stand out as comedy legends. They have entertained millions, shaped Nigerian culture, and showcased the universal power of laughter. From the wit of Sam Loco to the slapstick of Mr Ibu and the natural humor of Osuofia, their contributions cannot be overstated.
Their legacy is proof that comedy isn’t just about laughter—it’s about connection, culture, and storytelling. As Nollywood continues to grow globally, these comedic icons will forever remain its foundation. What do you think? Who is your favorite Nollywood comedian of all time? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with fellow Nollywood fans.
