Nigeria is famous as one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world. It has over 200 million people who speak over 500 languages. It is also home to some of the most famous people from Africa. Some of the most famous people from Nigeria include award winning musicians Yemi Alade, Burna Boy, Davido, Fela Kuti, WizKid, and Tiwa Savage.
Nollywood is the world’s second-largest film industry, and it has produced many famous actors and actresses. These include the comedic duo Osita Iheme and Chinedu Ikedieze, Mercy Johnson Okojie, Chike Daniels, Ruth Kadiri, and Maurice Sam. Together, the leading Nigerian actors have produced thousands of movies, and are continuously influencing African pop culture.
Famous Nigerian celebrities and personalities
Died aged 63
31 years old
Nigerian Nollywood actress, model whose recent movies include Queen of Hearts (2025) & Hide N Seek
36 years old
Nigerian actor, social media influencer, TV producer, businessman who has appeared in many Nollywood films including Steal My Heart (2024)
37 years old
48 years old
Nigerian filmmaker, actress (real name Olufunke Ayotunde Akindele) also known as Jenifa
49 years old
Nigerian Nollywood actor, singer, and filmmaker famous for his role in Asiri Gomina Wa
45 years old
Nigerian actor famous in Nollywood films where he plays versatile roles in movies such as Twisted Feelings (2023), Perfect Match (2023)
39 years old
Nigerian singer who rose to fame after taking part in the 6th season of Project Fame West Africa (2013) and thereafter released her single Ibadi
43 years old
44 years old
Nigerian actor, musician & model famous as winner of Amstel Malta Box Office (AMBO) reality show
Famous people from Nigeria
The North-western country is also home to award winning authors who include emerging voices in literature Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Purple Hibiscus) and Ayobami Adebayo (Stay With Me).
Legendary authors Chinua Achebe (Things Fall Apart), Wole Soyinka (The Lion and the Jewel) and Elechi Amadi who wrote The Concubine were also born in Nigeria.
Africa’s most populous country has also produced talented and globally reknowned sportspeople who include footballers Victor Osimhen and John Obi Mikel. Other famous Nigerians are the continent’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, Catholic cardinal Francis Arinze, and former president Olusegun Obasanjo.
