Today, February 7, 2025, we celebrate the 70th birthday of Nkem Owoh, popularly known as ‘Osuofia,’ a renowned Nigerian actor, comedian, and musician. Born in Amagu, Udi Town, Enugu State, Nigeria, in 1955, Owoh has firmly established himself as a legend in Nollywood over the years.
Owoh’s journey in entertainment began in the late 1970s, initially working as a writer for the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). His acting breakthrough came with the popular sitcom The New Masquerade, where he played a humorous drunkard, showcasing his comedic brilliance and gaining widespread recognition.
In 1995, he produced and starred in the iconic film Ikuku, where his portrayal of Osuofia, a drunken character, made a lasting impact on audiences and solidified his place as one of Nollywood’s finest.
Owoh gained international acclaim with his role in Osuofia in London (2003), a film that not only earned him the ‘Osuofia’ moniker but also introduced him to a global fanbase. His acting excellence has earned him multiple awards, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2008 for Stronger than Pain.
Beyond acting, Owoh is also known for his music, especially the hit song “I Go Chop Your Dollar,” which humorously critiques advance-fee fraud. Despite facing personal challenges, including an arrest in Amsterdam in 2007 and a kidnapping incident in 2009, his determination and commitment to his craft have cemented his legacy as one of Nollywood’s most beloved figures.
As Nkem Owoh celebrates this milestone, his incredible contributions to the film industry continue to inspire both current and future generations of actors and fans.
