Celebrity Biographies
Nollywood Celebrities Who Are Now Pastors
The Nollywood industry has witnessed a notable trend of actors and actresses transitioning from their profession to pursue pastoral roles.
Over the years, the Nollywood industry has witnessed a notable trend of actors and actresses transitioning from their profession to pursue pastoral roles. This Article contains the spotlight cast on the select group of Nollywood stars who have embraced pastoral administration
1. Yul Chibuike Daniel Edochie
The First on the list of Nollywood Celebrities Who Are Now Pastors is Yul Chibuike Daniel Edochie, widely recognized as Yul Edochie, is a prominent Nigerian actor from Anambra State, Nigeria. Born into the esteemed lineage of his father, the veteran Nigerian actor Pete Edochie, Yul ventured into the realm of Nollywood in 2005 with his debut film, “The Exquires,” sharing the screen with luminaries such as Justus Esiri and Enebeli Elebuwa. However, it was in 2007 that he truly made his mark, securing a pivotal role alongside industry icons Genevieve Nnaji and Desmond Elliot in the acclaimed movie “Wind Of Glory,” catapulting him into the spotlight.
Nollywood luminary Yul Edochie has embraced a profound calling, answering the beckon of God in his life by founding a ministry. Breaking news reveals his announcement of assuming pastoral duties and inaugurating a ministry. Through a recent post, he divulged his newfound role as a pastor and unveiled plans for his ministry. In the promotional material shared online, he unveiled the name of his church: “True Salvation Ministry.”
2. Olubankole Wellington
Olubankole Wellington popularly known by his stage name Banky W and credited in film as Banky Wellington, is a Nigerian singer, rapper, actor, entrepreneur, and politician. He began singing in his church choir at a young age and started the record label Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E) in 2002 while studying. He also worked at GlobalSpec. In 2009, he left the US for Nigeria and established his record label in Lagos by signing artists like Niyola, Shaydee, Skales, and Wizkid to the label. He released a début studio album, Back in the Building 2005.
However, In 2020, Banky W made a significant shift from musician to pastor when he was ordained at Tony Rapu’s This Present House Church. Despite his pastoral duties, he has remained active in music, releasing an album and collaborating with gospel artist Mercy Chinwo. Additionally, he ventured into politics by running for office. This is the second on the list of Nollywood Celebrities Who Are Now Pastors.
3. Oluwajimi Odukoya
Oluwajimi Odukoya is a Nigerian actor, and the senior pastor of the Fountain of Life Church, in Ilupeju, Lagos. He played the role of Oba Ade in the 2022 movie The Woman King alongside Viola Davis and John Boyega. Odukoya, as the eldest son and second child of the late pastors Bimbo Odukoya and Taiwo Odukoya, assumed the mantle of leadership following his father’s passing.
He stepped into the role of the official senior pastor at the Fountain of Life Church, continuing the legacy established by his parents. This transition occurred in September 2023, marking a significant moment for the congregation and the Odukoya family alike. Alongside him, his sister Tolu Odukoya-Ijogun was appointed as his associate senior pastor, reinforcing a familial bond and a shared commitment to the church’s mission. Their joint leadership promises to carry forward the values and teachings instilled by their predecessors, ensuring continuity and growth within the church community.
4. Charles Okafor
Charles Okafor is Renowned for his seasoned presence in Nollywood spanning over two decades, He made a notable return to the screen in Uche Jombo’s “Misplaced” after a prolonged absence from the limelight. While his acting prowess remains evident, Okafor has seamlessly integrated his artistic career with a profound devotion to spreading the Christian faith.
Transitioning into the role of a licensed preacher, he actively engages in evangelism, fervently striving to bring souls closer to Christ. Okafor’s illustrious past in the industry includes memorable performances in acclaimed films such as “Executive Connection,” “Boiling Point,” “Over the River,” “Between Love,” and “Forest of Promises,” where he shared the screen with esteemed counterparts like Saint Obi, Zack Ori, and Richard Mofe Damijo. Despite his influential status as a pioneer in Nigerian cinema, Okafor’s journey has evolved to encompass a deeper spiritual calling, marking a significant chapter in his multifaceted career trajectory.
5. Eucharia Anunobi
Another celebrity on the list of Nollywood Celebrities Who Are Now Pastors is Eucharia Anunobi a revered Nigerian actress, producer, and pastor, renowned for her standout performance in the film “Abuja Connection.” She received a nomination at the 2020 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards for Best Supporting Actress in a Movie or TV Series. She is currently serving as an evangelist at a church in Egbeda, Lagos State.
However, When Eucharia Anunobi announced her devotion to Christ, her fans were shocked. Following the loss of her son, she mourned deeply before embracing her faith more profoundly. On February 5, 2012, she took a significant step by being ordained as an evangelist by Pastor Psalm Okpe at the Fresh Oil Ministry Church in Egbeda, Lagos State, Nigeria.
6. Liz Benson
Elizabeth Benson, widely known as Liz Benson, holds an esteemed place in Nollywood, captivating audiences for decades with her captivating performances. Her journey commenced in 1993, gracing the screen in the acclaimed television soap opera “Fortunes,” marking the inception of an illustrious acting career. Over the years, she ascended to the pinnacle of stardom, solidifying her status as one of the industry’s most revered figures.
However, a transformative moment arrived when she embraced her faith wholeheartedly. Following her evangelist ordination at the Rainbow Christian Assembly Church in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria, Liz Benson chose to pivot from her acting career. This pivotal decision led her to devote herself fully to her spiritual calling. Presently, she serves as a pastor alongside her husband, Bishop Great Emeya, whom she married in 2009. Together, they shepherd the congregation of their church, embodying a shared commitment to their ministry and community. This is the last on the list of Nollywood Celebrities Who Are Now Pastors.
The table Below Contains The List Of The Nollywood Celebrities Who Are Now pastors
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Yul Chibuike Daniel Edochie
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Olubankole Wellington
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Oluwajimi Odukoya
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Charles Okafor
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Eucharia Anunobi
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Liz Benson