Japa: 10 Nollywood Actors Who Have Left Nigeria

The “Japa” wave have been trending over the years and this is of people moving abroad for better opportunities. This has swept across every corner of Nigeria, and Nollywood is not left out. 

Many actors who once ruled our screens have now packed their bags and started fresh lives in other countries like the UK, Canada, and the U.S.

Some are still acting or creating content abroad, while others have switched careers completely, choosing new paths in business, health, and even public service. 

Their stories show how much the search for peace, purpose, and stability has shaped the lives of Nigerian creatives today.

Let’s see some Nollywood actors who have left Nigeria and what they are doing now.

Frank Donga – From Comedy to Communications

Kunle Idowu, better known as Frank Donga, became famous for his hilarious “job seeker” skits on NdaniTV’s The Interview. He later starred in big Nollywood films like Hakkunde, The Wedding Party, and The 4th Republic.

Today, Frank lives in Canada, where he now works as a Multimedia Communications Specialist with the Ministry of Agriculture in Saskatchewan. Even though he’s no longer acting full-time, he still uses storytelling to connect with people, just in a new way.

Adesua Etomi-Wellington – Actress Turned Beauty Entrepreneur

Adesua Etomi-Wellington is one of Nollywood’s most loved faces. She’s known for her powerful roles in Falling, The Wedding Party, and The Arbitration. But lately, Adesua has been focusing on her other passions.

Now based outside Nigeria, she has built a new career as a beauty and wellness entrepreneur. Together with her friend Jemima Osunde, she launched Sanaa Beauty, a skincare brand all about self-care and authenticity. Adesua has also opened up about women’s health, inspiring many with her honesty and strength.

Grace Charis Bassey (Belinda Effah) – From Nollywood to the U.S. Navy

Grace Charis Bassey, formerly known as Belinda Effah, took one of the boldest steps yet. The actress left Nigeria and joined the U.S. Navy, even earning American citizenship.

She shared her proud moment on social media, dedicating it to her late father, a retired Nigerian Navy commander. Grace now serves in the military and says her decision came from a desire for “renewed purpose and service.” It’s a big change, but one that shows courage and discipline.

Maurice Ndubueze – From Movie Star to Medical Doctor

Back in the early 2000s, Maurice Ndubueze (also known as McMorris) was a Nollywood heartthrob. He starred in films like Final Hour, Girls’ Cot, and Married Women on Campus, where he played roles that audiences loved to hate.

Today, Maurice lives in the United States and works as a physician. After years in front of the camera, he chose to study medicine, proving that it’s never too late to chase a new dream.

Funsho Adeolu – The Dancing MC in America

Veteran actor Funsho Adeolu has always been known for his grace, discipline, and strong performances in Yoruba films like Ile Alariwo and Idoti Oju.

After decades in Nollywood, he quietly relocated to the United States with his family. There, he reinvented himself as a Master of Ceremonies (MC) and earned the nickname “The Dancing MC” after videos of his lively moves went viral. His energy at events has made him popular once again, just in a new setting.

Doris Simeon – Actress Turned Hairdresser and Mentor

Once one of the most popular faces in Yoruba movies, Doris Simeon gained fame for her role in Ghetto Dreamz and later won several awards, including the Zafaa Award for Best Indigenous Actress.

After moving to the United States in 2018, Doris started a new life as a hairdresser and entrepreneur. She also works with Heart and Home for Youths, a group home for young people and teen mothers in Maryland. Through this, she continues to touch lives both inside and outside the salon.

Regina Askia-Williams – From Miss Nigeria to Nurse Practitioner

Once a beauty queen and one of Nollywood’s brightest stars, Regina Askia-Williams made her mark with movies like Suicide Mission and Dirty Game. But at the height of her fame, she made a surprising move, leaving acting to become a Family Nurse Practitioner in New York City.

Now, she works in healthcare, helping people and advocating for children’s education and health. Her story shows how a person can shine in more than one field.

Banky W – From Music and Movies to Ministry

Banky W, whose full name is Olubankole Wellington, is one of the few Nigerian entertainers who has succeeded in almost everything he’s tried from music to movies and even politics.

After starring in The Wedding Party and producing several films under his company, Banky turned his focus to faith and public service. He and his wife, actress Adesua Etomi-Wellington, are now based partly outside Nigeria, where they continue to run their church and outreach programs.

Banky has also become a pastor and motivational speaker, guiding young people to make better life choices. Though he’s not as active in Nollywood as before, his influence continues to shape the entertainment industry from afar.

Lola Alao – From Actress to Caregiver in Canada

Lola Alao is a respected Yoruba movie actress who made her name with roles in films like. She was known for her calm presence and emotional performances.

A few years ago, she relocated to Canada, where she took on a new calling, helping people. She now works as a caregiver and social worker, supporting Nigerian families and women abroad. Lola also runs a non-profit organization that helps widows and children back home.

Tunde Owokoniran – From Action Hero to Family Man Abroad

Tunde Owokoniran, also known as “Tunde Tilapia,” is a popular Yoruba actor famous for his roles in action-packed and emotional movies. Discovered by veteran actor Odunlade Adekola, Tunde quickly became a household name in Nollywood.

After years of success in Nigeria, Tunde moved to the United States, where he now lives a quieter life with his family. Although he isn’t acting full-time anymore, he sometimes shares inspiring messages and family moments on social media.