30 Celebrities You Didn’t Know Were Nigerian

30. John Boyega

Known For: Star Wars: The Force Awakens, The Woman King, They Cloned Tyrone.
Background: British-Nigerian actor born to Nigerian parents in London. He began acting in school plays and pursued a degree in performing arts.

29. Rotimi

Known For: Power, music hits like “In My Bed”.
Background: Born in New Jersey to Nigerian parents. He blends Afrobeat into his music and maintains a strong connection to his roots.

28. David Oyelowo

Known For: Selma, The Butler.
Background: British-Nigerian actor from Oxford. He comes from a royal family and has a deep appreciation for his Nigerian heritage.

27. Wale

Known For: Hit singles like “Lotus Flower Bomb”.
Background: American-Nigerian rapper from Washington, D.C. He has been influenced by his Nigerian roots in his music.

26. Nonso Anozie

Known For: Game of Thrones, The Last Legion.
Background: Born in London to Nigerian parents, he has built a successful career in film and theater.

25. Tyler, The Creator

Known For: Goblin, Igor.
Background: Born to a Nigerian father and an American mother. He has embraced his heritage in his music.

24. Hakeem Kae-Kazim

Known For: Hotel Rwanda, Black Gold.
Background: Born in Lagos, Nigeria, and raised in London. He is known for his philanthropic efforts as well.

23. Skepta

Known For: Grime music and hits like “Shutdown”.
Background: British-Nigerian rapper who grew up in London. His music reflects his Nigerian heritage.

22. Chiwetel Ejiofor

Known For: 12 Years a Slave, Doctor Strange.
Background: British-Nigerian actor born in London. He has received multiple awards for his performances.

21. Chamillionaire

Known For: Ridin’, The Sound of Revenge.
Background: American rapper of Nigerian descent. He has also ventured into entrepreneurship.

20. David Ajala

Known For: Nightflyers, Supergirl.
Background: Nigerian-born actor raised in the UK. He has a strong presence in both film and television.

19. Dax

Known For: Dear God.
Background: Nigerian-Canadian rapper who has made a name for himself with his powerful lyrics and storytelling.

18. Jackie Aina

Known For: YouTube influencer and beauty advocate.
Background: Nigerian-American who has used her platform to advocate for women of color in the beauty industry.

17. Nas

Known For: Illmatic, Stillmatic.
Background: American rapper with Nigerian roots. His father was a jazz musician, influencing his music career.

16. Forest Whitaker

Known For: The Last King of Scotland, Bird.
Background: American actor confirmed to have Nigerian ancestry through genealogical testing.

15. Tobe Nwigwe

Known For: Dope.
Background: Nigerian-American rapper and singer, known for his unique style and community-focused music.

14. Uzo Aduba

Known For: Orange is the New Black.
Background: Nigerian-American actress who has received critical acclaim for her performances.

13. Jidenna

Known For: Classic Man.
Background: Nigerian-American singer and songwriter, celebrated for his blend of Afrobeats and hip-hop.

12. Sophie Okonedo

Known For: Hotel Rwanda, The Secret Life of Bees.
Background: British-Nigerian actress with numerous awards including a Tony Award.

11. Zendaya

Known For: Spider-Man, Euphoria.
Background: American actress with Nigerian roots through her father.

10. Cynthia Erivo

Known For: Harriet, The Color Purple.
Background: British-Nigerian actress and singer who has received multiple awards for her performances.

9. Lil Wayne

Known For: Lollipop, Tha Carter series.
Background: American rapper who discovered his Nigerian ancestry through a DNA test.

8. Gina Yashere

Known For: Bob Hearts Abishola.
Background: British-Nigerian comedian and actress, known for her stand-up and acting career.

7. Taio Cruz

Known For: Break Your Heart.
Background: British-Nigerian singer-songwriter known for his hit songs and collaborations.

6. Akin Omotoso

Known For: The Last Face, Man on Ground.
Background: Nigerian actor and director based in South Africa.

5. KSI

Known For: YouTube, music, boxing.
Background: British-Nigerian internet personality and musician.

4. Yvonne Orji

Known For: Insecure.
Background: Nigerian-American actress and comedian who has spoken about her Nigerian roots.

3. Tiny Tempah

Known For: Pass Out.
Background: British-Nigerian rapper known for his chart-topping hits.

2. Sade Adu

Known For: Smooth Operator.
Background: Nigerian-English singer and songwriter, famous for her smooth jazz and soul music.

1. Donald Faison

Known For: Scrubs.
Background: American actor of Nigerian descent, known for his comedic roles.

Conclusion

These celebrities have not only made significant contributions to their respective fields but also proudly represent their Nigerian heritage