10 Highest-Grossing Nollywood Actors for 2023 

The highest-grossing actors in Nigeria in 2023 took home around N3 billion from their lead roles, supporting lead roles, and first or second lead roles in one or more films.
The individual earnings of each actor are displayed by FilmOneng, a Nigerian entertainment company that specialises in the production and distribution of motion picture content.

The data was compiled by Nairametrics due to the noteworthy N2.93 billion in cumulative profits of the actors for the year ending December 31, 2023, which underscores the noteworthy financial influence of their contributions to the industry.

These actors, who have starred in some of the biggest-grossing films of 2023, have proven their capacity to capture viewers’ attention and lead to box office success. Their performances have captivated audiences in both the lead and second supporting parts, solidifying their reputation as Nigerian cinema superstars.

The actors on the list were featured in some of the highest-grossing movies in 2023.

See who top the list below:

1. Timini Egbuson – 1 billion naira

Timini Egbuson made an astounding N1 billion in revenue in 2023, making her the highest-paid actor in Nollywood. The 36-year-old actor shot to prominence in 2010 after landing a role in the soap opera “Tinsel” on M-Net Nigeria.
In the film “Shuga,” he portrayed Tobi, which earned him praise and pushed him to recognition.
He featured in only nine Nollywood films in 2023, including “A Tribe Called Judah,” “The Kujus Again,” “Big Love,” “Honey Money,” “Something Like Gold,” “Unforgivable,” “The Bloom Boys,” “The Modern Woman,” and “Maniac.”

2. Jide Kene Achufusi – 799 Million naira

In 2019’s “Living in Bondage: Breaking Free,” Jide Kene Achufusi made waves with his breakthrough performance as Nnamdi Okeke. The role won him praise and recognition, including a nomination for Best Actor and a Trailblazer award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2020. His participation in two noteworthy projects in 2023—”A Tribe Called Judah” and “Ifediche”—boosted his income to an astounding N799 million for the year.

Achufusi’s career in the industry began with supporting parts in Nollywood films, including “A Lonely Lane,” “Black Rose,” “Pretty Little Thing,” “Ofu Obi,” and “Poka Messiah.”

3. Stan Nze – 166 Million naira

Stan Nze’s professional path is a perfect example of adaptability and commitment. His breakthrough performance in the 2020 revival of “Rattlesnake” won him a 2022 AMVCA Award for Best Actor in Drama in addition to other accolades from critics. Nze keeps getting better, moving from stage plays to TV and films. His contributions to the N166 million box office success of “Domitila,” “Afamefuna,” and “A Weekend to Remember” in 2023 demonstrated his influence on Nigerian film.

4. Ramsey Nouah – 151 million naira

Ramsey Nouah, 53, has experienced all of the Nollywood industry’s phases of growth and decline. For his work in the film The Figurine, he was awarded the 2010 Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Throughout his career, he has continuously given outstanding performances. His work as a filmmaker, including “Living in Bondage: Breaking Free,” and his succeeding appearances in 2023 projects solidify his position as one of Nollywood’s top stars.

5. Kunle Remi – 149 million naira

Kunle Remi’s N149 million gross changed drastically after he starred in the 2023 movie Something Like Gold, Love and Lust and Other Things, Praise Party, and The Kujus Again. Remi is a model, host, and actor who exudes warmth and charisma on screen, as shown in his roles in a number of productions, including the Netflix series “Anikulapo.”

6. Emeka Ike – 144 Milion naira

Emeka Ike, an industry veteran, continues to command attention with his nuanced performances. His portrayal in “Malaika” in 2023 adds another feather to his cap, showcasing his relevance and impact in Nollywood.

7. Ayo Makun – 137 million naira

Ayo Makun, also referred to as A.Y., demonstrated his comic prowess in 2023 and made an astounding N137 million in revenue. Makun, who is well-known for his directing and acting abilities, has irrevocably changed Nigerian entertainment with his sense of humour. A.Y.’s humour and wit have always captured viewers, from the huge success of “30 Days in Atlanta” to his most recent parts in “Merry Men 3” and “Almajiri.” This has made him a legendary character in the business.

8. Deyemi Okanlawon – 130 million naira

Deyemi Okanlawon, whose star shines brightly with a gross of N130 million, has etched his name in the annals of Nollywood history. With notable appearances in films such as “Omo Ghetto: The Saga,” “Blood Sisters,” and “King of Boys: The Return of the King,” Okanlawon’s journey from his debut in “ZR-7” to his current status as one of Nollywood’s highest-grossing actors emphasises  his versatility.

9. Odunlade Adekola – 128 million naira

Odunlade Adekola, a prominent figure in Yoruba cinema, demonstrated his prowess in the Nigerian film industry with a noteworthy gross of N128 million from his role in the Nollywood film “Orisa,” which itself garnered an impressive N127 million. Known for his captivating performances and directorial skills, Adekola’s contributions to the industry extend beyond acting. His ability to resonate with audiences has earned him two AMVCA awards, showcasing his versatility in both comedic and supporting roles.

10. Charles Okafor – 126 million naira

In 2023, Okafor’s ascent to the ranks of the highest-grossing actors can be attributed to his starring role in Mercy Aigbe’s “Ada Omo Daddy,” a cinematic masterpiece that resonated deeply with audiences and enjoyed immense success at the box office, grossing a staggering N218 million.