Nkem Owoh was born on February 7, 1958, in Udi, Enugu State, Nigeria. From a young age, Owoh showcased a keen interest in the performing arts, which was evident during his primary and secondary education in Nsukka.
Although he pursued engineering at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, his passion for creative expression remained strong.
During his university years, he began to engage in acting, appearing in various television and film productions.
This period was pivotal as it allowed him to blend his academic pursuits with his burgeoning interest in entertainment.
After graduation, Owoh joined WACO Engineering but was laid off after just one year, which marked a significant turning point, pushing him towards a full-time career in the arts.
Osuofia’s Career
Osuofia’s career in entertainment started with writing scripts for notable Nigerian productions like “The New Masquerade” and “Basi and Company”, a sitcom created by Ken Saro-Wiwa.
His unexpected opportunity to act came when he filled in for an absent actor, playing a drunkard in “The New Masquerade”, which launched his acting career.
His first major film role was in the Igbo language movie “Living in Bondage”, where he was initially responsible for subtitling.
However, his acting talent was soon recognized, and he transitioned into more prominent roles.
In 2003, Owoh gained international fame with the role of Osuofia in “Osuofia in London” and its sequel “Osuofia in London 2” in 2004, which not only gave him his nickname but also solidified his status in Nollywood.
His performance in these films, along with his distinctive comedic style, earned him widespread recognition.
Nkem Owoh also ventured into music, with one of his notable tracks being “I Go Chop Your Dollar”, which was featured in the film “The Master”.
Unfortunately, this song was later banned by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission due to its subject matter related to advance fee fraud.
Owoh’s career accolades include winning the Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) for “Best Actor in a Leading Role” in 2008 for his role in “Stronger than Pain”.
In 2017, he was honored with the AMAA Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his extensive contributions to Nollywood over the years.
His filmography includes high-grossing Nigerian films like “Chief Daddy”, “Lion Heart”, and “My Village People”, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal.
Nkem Owoh’s Impact in Nollywood
Nkem Owoh has had a profound impact on Nollywood, contributing significantly to its growth and international recognition.
His comedic roles have brought laughter to millions, making him a household name in Nigeria and beyond.
Owoh’s work has helped in defining the comedic genre within Nollywood, bringing a unique flavor that blends traditional Nigerian humor with contemporary storytelling.
His international breakthrough with “Osuofia in London” was a milestone for Nollywood, as it was among the first Nigerian films to gain global attention, challenging the perception of African cinema and showcasing its potential on the world stage.
Owoh’s ability to write, act, and sing has made him a multifaceted talent within the industry, influencing many upcoming actors and creatives to explore multiple facets of entertainment.
Owoh’s films have often tackled social issues with humor, making them both entertaining and thought-provoking.
This approach has helped in promoting Nigerian culture and language, particularly through his use of Igbo in his films, which has contributed to cultural preservation and pride.
His legacy in Nollywood is not just in the laughter he has brought but also in his role as a pioneer who helped shape the industry’s narrative style and its global outreach.
Through his career, Nkem Owoh has become a symbol of Nollywood’s resilience, creativity, and its capacity to entertain and educate, leaving an indelible mark on the Nigerian film industry.
Frequently Asked Questions on Nkem Owoh
1. When was Nkem Owoh born?
Nkem Owoh was born on February 7, 1958.
2. What is Nkem Owoh’s stage name?
Nkem Owoh is popularly known as Osuofia.
3. How old is Nkem Owoh in 2025?
In 2025, Nkem Owoh turns 70 years old.
4. What is Nkem Owoh known for?
Nkem Owoh is known for his comedic roles in Nollywood, particularly for his role in “Osuofia in London”.
5. What was Nkem Owoh’s first major film role?
His first major film role was in “Living in Bondage” where he was initially responsible for subtitling.
6. Which film gave Nkem Owoh international fame?
“Osuofia in London” and its sequel “Osuofia in London 2” gave him international fame.
7. Has Nkem Owoh won any awards?
Yes, he won the Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) for “Best Actor in a Leading Role” in 2008 for “Stronger than Pain” and received the AMAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017.
8. What genres does Osuofia typically work in?
He predominantly works in comedy but has also ventured into drama and music.
9. What is one of Nkem Owoh’s famous songs?
One of his famous songs is “I Go Chop Your Dollar”.
10. Why was “I Go Chop Your Dollar” banned?
It was banned by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission for promoting advance fee fraud.
11. What educational background does Nkem Owoh have?
He studied engineering at the University of Ibadan.
12. When did Nkem Owoh start his acting career?
He began acting in primary school but professionally during his university years.
13. What role did Nkem Owoh play in ‘The New Masquerade’?
He played a drunkard role which was his break into acting after filling in for an absent actor.
14. What impact has Nkem Owoh had on Nollywood?
He has significantly contributed to Nollywood’s growth, particularly through his comedic roles, international recognition, and influencing the genre’s development.
15. Is Osuofia involved in music apart from acting?
Yes, he is also a singer with several songs to his credit.
16. Which Nollywood film festivals have featured Nkem Owoh’s movies?
Films like “Osuofia in London” were featured at international film festivals like TIFF, Berlinale, and Cannes.
17. What was the significance of Nkem Owoh’s 70th birthday?
It was celebrated widely, highlighting his legacy in Nollywood and his cultural significance, with fans and peers showering him with birthday wishes.
18. How did Nkem Owoh get into broadcasting before acting?
After university, he worked as a broadcaster for the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) and Anambra State Broadcasting Services (ASBS).
19. What is Nkem Owoh’s latest musical release mentioned?
His latest release mentioned is “Know Me When Am Poor” from August 2023.
20. What challenges did Osuofia face in his career?
Early on, Nollywood films faced perceptions of low production values and unconventional storytelling, but Owoh helped change these perceptions.
21. What role did Nkem Owoh play in ‘Things Fall Apart’?
He played alongside Pete Edochie in this 1987 movie.
22. How did Nkem Owoh transition from engineering to entertainment?
After being laid off from WACO Engineering, he pursued entertainment full-time.
23. What is Nkem Owoh’s contribution to the Igbo culture through his work?
He has promoted Igbo culture through his use of the language in films and his traditional roles.
24. What personal tragedy did Nkem Owoh experience?
He experienced the loss of his 24-year-old daughter in 2023.
25. What are some of Osuofia’s highest-grossing films?
Films like “Chief Daddy”, “Lion Heart”, and “My Village People” are among his highest-grossing.
26. What kind of characters does Osuofia typically portray?
He is known for chatty, comedic characters that bring joy and laughter to audiences.
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