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Top 10 Richest Igbo Celebrities (2023)
Igbo celebrities in the world of fame and fortune have experienced notable success and made a significant impact. The Igbo people of Nigeria proudly boast a considerable number of celebrities who have achieved wealth through their talent and dedication.
These individuals have not only gained fame but have also amassed substantial wealth.
In this article, RNN will present the top 10 richest Igbo celebrities, highlighting their achievements and the fortunes they have accumulated.
10. Pete Edochie
Pete Edochie is one of the most Richest Igbo celebrities in Nigeria. He has an estimated net worth of $4 million. Pete is recognized as one of Africa’s most skilled actors.
Edochie was born on 7 March 1947 in Zaria but originated from Anambra State in the eastern part of Nigeria.
After completing his secondary education, he pursued studies in Journalism and Television in England. At the age of 20, Edochie started his career in radio broadcasting as a junior program assistant. He later advanced to become a director of programs, occasionally serving as Deputy Managing Director and even Acting Managing Director.
Eventually, due to the government’s decision to politicize their FM station, Edochie left radio broadcasting and entered the movie industry.
In recognition of his talent and contributions, Pete Edochie received an Industry Merit Award from Africa Magic and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Africa Film Academy.
9. Genevieve Nnaji
Genevieve Nnaji was born on May 3, 1979, in Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria. She grew up in Lagos. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in creative arts from the University of Lagos. While at the university, she began auditioning for acting jobs in Nollywood
In 2005, she won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role, becoming the first actor to receive this honor. In 2011, the Nigerian government recognized her contributions to Nollywood and honored her as a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.
Genevieve Nnaji is one of Igbo celebrities, a Nigerian actress, producer, and director. Her estimated net worth is 10 million U.S. dollars.
8. Phyno
Phyno is one of the richest musicians in Nigeria, with an estimated net worth of $12 Million. He is no doubt one of the best indigenous rappers in Nigeria and is renowned for rapping in the Igbo language.
Phyno, whose real name is Chibuzo Nelson Azubuike, was born on 9th October 1986 in Enugu state. He is a Nigerian rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. Phyno grew up in Enugu State, but his roots are in Anambra State. He began his music career in 2003 as a producer and gained fame for rapping in the Igbo language.
In 2014, he released his first studio album titled “No Guts No Glory.” The album included hit singles like “Ghost Mode,” “Man of the Year,” “Parcel,” and “O Set.” Throughout his career, Phyno has collaborated with various artists such as Olamide, Wizkid, Davido, Timaya, Flavour, Ruggedman, Bracket, J. Martins, and Mr. Raw.
7. Cubana Chief Priest
Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest is a well-known figure in Nigeria. He is a show promoter, businessman, and the owner of Club Xhrine in Owerri. He was born on April 2, 1981, in Umuhu Okabia, Orsu Local Government Area, Imo state.
Cubana attended the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, and holds a Doctor of Science degree in Event and Luxury Hospitality Management.
With a net worth estimated at $18 million, Cubana Chief Priest has achieved financial success through his entrepreneurship, show promotion, and notable brand endorsements, such as bullet drink.
6. Basket Mouth
Bright Okpocha, also known as Basketmouth, was born on 14 September 1978 in Lagos State, Nigeria. Although born in Lagos, he hails from Abia State. Basketmouth is a Nigerian comedian and actor who has gained fame for organizing popular stand-up comedy concerts such as Basketmouth Uncensored worldwide.
He completed his primary and secondary education in Apapa, Lagos. Later, he pursued a degree in Sociology and Anthropology at the University of Benin, Edo State.
Basketmouth has accumulated a substantial amount of wealth, making him one of the richest comedians in Nigeria. His net worth is estimated to be $20 million.
5. Linda Ikeji
Linda Ifeoma Ikeji, a Nigerian blogger, writer, entrepreneur, and former model, gained fame for her blog and controversial online publications. She was born on September 19, 1980, in Nkwerre, Imo State, Nigeria. After graduating from the University in 2004, she started blogging as a hobby in 2006, back when the internet was not widely used in Nigeria. Due to limited access, she had to make her posts at a cybercafé.
Linda Ikeji’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. She is not only one of the most searched people in Nigeria but also has gained trust in online advertising through her blog. Companies and banking industries highly regard Linda Ikeji’s blog as a platform to reach their audience by placing banner ads. For several years now, Guaranty Trust Bank and Globacom Limited (Glo) have been placing a monthly sidebar ad worth 1 million naira.
4. Jim Iyke
Jim Iyke, born on 25 September 1976, is a popular Nigerian actor also known as James Ikechukwu Esomugha. He attended secondary school at F.G.C. Kwali Abuja from 1985 to 1991. Later, he pursued a diploma in Banking and Finance, as well as a BSc in philosophy at the University of Jos in Plateau State.
In 2001, Jim Iyke gained fame and has since starred in over 150 films. He is recognized as one of the top and wealthiest actors in Nollywood. With a net worth of approximately $30 million, he ranks among the richest Nigerian celebrities .
3. E-Money
Emeka Okonkwo, also known as E-Money, is a Nigerian entrepreneur, investor, and business tycoon. He is the CEO of Five Star Music. Born on February 18, 1981, in Ajegunle, Lagos, Nigeria, E-Money earned his nickname by lavishly throwing money and showcasing a luxurious lifestyle. Some people even call him Arabic money due to his extravagant generosity.
E-Money’s net worth is estimated at $55 million. He accumulates substantial income from various sources, including his oil and gas business, shipment and delivery ventures, record label, and hotels.
2. Jowi Zaza
Jowi Zaza, also known as Joseph Eze Okafor Jr., is a prominent Nigerian billionaire and one of Igbo Celebrities. At the age of 36, he has amassed significant wealth, leading many to label him as a Yahoo boy. He attended Sacred Heart Seminary Nsude in Enugu state for his secondary education, followed by Madonna University Okija. He pursued his post-graduate studies at The Coventry University in London, United Kingdom, and later enrolled in Kelce College of Business.
Jowi Zaza serves as the CEO of Jezco Oil and Lubricants, an oil company established by his father, Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor. With a net worth in the billions of naira, he is recognized as one of the wealthiest individuals in Nigeria. Despite his financial success, Jowi Zaza maintains a low-profile lifestyle, and little is known about him. He possesses numerous luxury vehicles, both within Nigeria and abroad. The estimated value of Jowi Zaza’s wealth is approximately $80 million.
1. Obi Cubana
Obinna “Obi” Iyiegbu was born on 12 April 1975 in Anambra State, Nigeria. He hails from Oba in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State. He is commonly known as Obi Cubana and is involved in various endeavors such as business, entertainment, and philanthropy. Currently, he serves as the chairman of the Cubana Group.
In 1998, he completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsuka.
As the Chairman and Founder of the Cubana Group, Iyiegbu embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in 2006 by establishing a nightclub called Ibiza Club in Abuja. In 2009, he expanded his business ventures by opening a hospitality club named Cubana in Owerri, Imo State.
Obi Cubana is currently recognized as one of Nigeria’s wealthiest and most influential figures, excelling in entertainment, event promotion, and entrepreneurship. His estimated net worth is $96 million (₦67,000,000), which includes his income, properties, and assets.