Nkem Owoh

Nkem Owoh (born 7 February 1958) is a Nigerian actor, comedian and singer. In 2008, he won the Africa Movie Academy Award for "Best Actor in a Leading Role" for his role in the Nigerian film, Stronger than Pain.

Early life and education Nkem Owoh was born in Enugu State, Nigeria. After completing his primary and secondary education in Nsukka, he went on to study engineering at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. During his university studies, Owoh began acting in various television and film productions. After completing his national youth service, he joined WACO Engineering but was laid off after just one year. However, this incident turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as it paved the way for him to explore opportunities in radio and television production.

In 1979, he embarked on his journey in the entertainment industry, starting as a writer at Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). He further established his writing credentials by penning scripts for notable productions, such as: The New Masquerade and Basi and Company (a sitcom created by Ken Saro-Wiwa). He also once filled in for an absent actor, playing the role of a drunkard in the groundbreaking sitcom The New Masquerade. This unexpected opportunity launched his successful career. Following Circle of Doom, he landed his third film role in Taboo which he was also among the scriptwriters.

In 1995, Owoh wrote and produced the iconic film Ikuku, where he portrayed the unforgettable character, Osuofia (a drunk). His portrayal of Osuofia in the movie earned him widespread recognition, transforming him into a beloved household name. In 1997, he produced Ikuku 2 a sequel to the first movie, where he reprised his role as a drunkard. He also produced Pampam the same year, teaming up with Okey Bakassi.

The character Osuofia was once again brought to life by Owoh in Osuofia in London (2003) and its sequel Osuofia in London 2 (2004), produced by Kingsley Ogoro. His appearance in this movie earned him international recognition and also his nickname. This breakthrough paved the way for a lasting career, with continuous screen appearances from then on.

Owoh is also known for performing the song "I Go Chop Your Dollar" about advance fee fraud. The song was featured in the film The Master in which Owoh plays the role of a scammer. The Nigerian Broadcasting Commission later banned the song. In 2007, Owoh was arrested in Amsterdam, Netherlands as a result of a seven-month investigation by the Dutch police dubbed "Operation Apollo".

In November 2009, Owoh was kidnapped in eastern Nigeria. His kidnappers demanded a 15 million naira ransom. Owoh was released after his family members allegedly paid a ransom fee of 1.4 million naira.

In 2026, Owoh starred in the Dammy Twitch-directed romantic comedy Call of My Life alongside Uzoamaka Power and Patience Ozokwor. The film earned 628 million Naira within 6 weeks of release and entered the list of Nollywood's Highest-grossing Films.

Personal life Owoh and his wife, Ngozi Nkem Owoh, have been married since 1998. She hails from Amagu Village, Udi Town, Enugu State Nigeria.

Filmography

Discography

Albums

Osuofia in London (2003) The Master (2005) Obara’m (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (2023)

Singles

“I Go Chop Your Dollar” (2005) “Agreement” (2005) “My People” (2023)