7th February, 2025
Nkem Owoh, fondly known as ‘Osuofia’, has spent decades entertaining audiences with his unique blend of comedy, drama, and music.
As he turns 70 on 7th February 2025, his journey from an engineering student to one of Nollywood’s most beloved actors is nothing short of remarkable. From groundbreaking roles to international recognition, Owoh has remained a household name, captivating fans with his witty performances and unforgettable characters.
To celebrate this milestone, here are 20 astonishing facts about the legendary actor, comedian, and musician who helped shape Nollywood into what it is today.
1. Osuofia’s Real Origin
Nkem Owoh‘s most iconic character, Osuofia, was first introduced in the 1995 film Ikuku, before Osuofia in London (2003) made it internationally famous.
2. Engineering to Entertainment
Despite studying engineering at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, his passion for acting led him to become one of Nigeria’s biggest movie stars.
3. His Career Began in Writing
Owoh started in the entertainment industry as a scriptwriter for Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and sitcoms like The New Masquerade and Basi and Company.
4. Living in Bondage Connection
He played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in Nollywood’s groundbreaking movie Living in Bondage (1992) by handling its subtitling.
5. International Recognition
His role in Osuofia in London made him one of the first Nollywood actors to gain widespread recognition outside Africa.
6. Versatile Talent
Beyond acting, he is a comedian, scriptwriter, and musician, with several hit songs, including the controversial I Go Chop Your Dollar.
7. Banned Song
His song I Go Chop Your Dollar, which humorously portrayed advance-fee fraud (419 scams), was banned by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission.
8. Dutch Police Investigation
In 2007, he was arrested in Amsterdam during a police raid called “Operation Apollo,” which targeted suspected lottery fraudsters. He was later released.
9. Kidnapping Ordeal
In 2009, Owoh was kidnapped in Enugu, and his abductors demanded a ₦15 million ransom. He was later freed after reportedly paying ₦1.4 million.
10. Award-Winning Actor
He won the 2008 Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in Stronger than Pain.
11. Lifetime Achievement Award
In 2017, he received the AMAA Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to Nollywood.
12. MTN Endorsement Deal
He signed a multimillion-naira endorsement deal with MTN in 2012, which was renewed multiple times.
13. One of Nollywood’s Most Memorable Drunks
His ability to portray drunken characters with comedic brilliance set him apart, particularly in Ikuku and Pampam.
14. A Nollywood Pioneer
Owoh has been in the industry since the 1970s, making him one of the longest-serving actors in Nollywood history.
15. Lost a Daughter in 2023
Tragically, he lost one of his two daughters in June 2023, a painful moment in his personal life.
16. Private Family Life
Despite his fame, Owoh keeps his personal life away from the public eye, including details about his wife and children.
17. Multiple Comedy Collaborations
He has worked with other top Nollywood comedians, including Okey Bakassi and Charles Inojie, solidifying his status as a comic legend.
18. First Major Film Role Came from an Accident
He landed his first significant acting role when he stood in for an absent actor in The New Masquerade, marking the start of his journey.
19. Speaks Fluent Igbo and English
Owoh’s ability to fluently switch between Igbo and English has helped him appeal to a broad Nollywood audience.
20. Still Relevant at 70
Even at 70, Nkem Owoh remains a highly respected and sought-after figure in Nollywood, proving his enduring impact on the industry. Microsoft AZ-500: Practice Tests dumps.
