JAPA: Nollywood Actors Who Relocated Abroad for Greener Pastures

The “Japa” wave — Nigeria’s migration trend in search of better opportunities — has swept through every sector, and Nollywood is no exception. Once the heartbeat of Nigerian cinema, several beloved stars have packed their bags for new beginnings overseas, seeking stability, fresh opportunities, or simply a change in lifestyle.

From award-winning actors to screen icons, these stars now call countries like the UK, Canada, and the United States home. While some continue to thrive in entertainment, others have reinvented themselves in healthcare, business, tech, and even the military. Their journeys mirror Nigeria’s growing economic pressures and the creative class’s quest for sustainable futures abroad.

7. Regina Askia-Williams — From Nollywood Queen to U.S. Family Nurse Practitioner

Once a household name and former beauty queen, Regina Askia-Williams ruled Nollywood with hits like Suicide Mission, Dirty Game, and The President’s Daughter.
Today, she’s based in New York City as a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), focusing on community health and empowerment. Askia-Williams’ bold career shift underscores her passion for service and advocacy beyond the screen.

6. Doris Simeon — From Screen Star to Hair & Beauty Entrepreneur

Popular Yoruba actress Doris Simeon, known for Ghetto Dreamz and other indigenous films, relocated to the United States in 2018. Now an entrepreneur in the hair and beauty industry, she also volunteers with Heart and Home for Youths, supporting young mothers in Maryland. Simeon’s transition reflects her resilience and drive to inspire others while exploring new horizons.

5. Funsho Adeolu — From Nollywood Icon to “The Dancing MC”

Veteran actor and producer Funsho Adeolu made his mark with classics like Ile Alariwo and Idoti Oju. Now based in the U.S., Adeolu has reinvented himself as a lively Master of Ceremonies (MC) — earning the nickname “The Dancing MC” thanks to his viral performances. His joyful transformation highlights how Nollywood stars are embracing reinvention abroad.

4. Maurice Ndubueze — From Campus Dramas to U.S. Physician

In the early 2000s, Maurice Ndubueze (aka McMorris) was a Nollywood favorite in Final Hour and Married Women on Campus. After relocating to the United States, he pursued medicine and is now a practicing physician. His story exemplifies discipline and reinvention — moving from movie scripts to medical charts with equal passion.

3. Grace Charis Bassey (Belinda Effah) — From Actress to U.S. Navy Sailor

Formerly known as Belinda Effah, Grace Charis Bassey stunned fans when she joined the U.S. Navy, earning American citizenship. A proud alumna of Nigerian Navy Secondary School, she described her enlistment as “coming full circle.” Bassey’s journey from Nollywood to the Navy reflects courage, discipline, and an unwavering desire for purpose.

2. Adesua Etomi-Wellington — From Movie Star to Beauty & Wellness Mogul

Globally acclaimed actress Adesua Etomi-Wellington has redefined herself as an entrepreneur and advocate. Beyond her award-winning roles in The Wedding Party and Falling, she co-founded Sanaa Beauty with Jemima Osunde in 2023 — a skincare brand rooted in self-care and authenticity. Etomi continues to use her platform to spotlight women’s health, particularly maternal wellness, after sharing her experience with Hyperemesis Gravidarum.

1. Frank Donga — From Comedy Skits to Canadian Government Specialist

Kunle Idowu, famously known as Frank Donga, has carved an unexpected path from viral skits to a career in public service. Now based in Canada, he works as a Multimedia Communications Specialist with the Ministry of Agriculture in Saskatchewan. His humor, intellect, and social awareness — once the soul of his comedy — now power his work in communications and development.

 Broader Picture

These stars symbolize a new reality for Nigeria’s creative industry — one where talent meets global mobility. The Japa movement has transformed Nollywood’s landscape, prompting conversations about brain drain, opportunity, and what it truly means to thrive as a Nigerian creative in today’s world.