Igbo celebrities have achieved remarkable success and left a lasting impact in the world of fame and fortune. The Igbo people of Nigeria take pride in a large number of celebrities who have attained wealth through their talent and hard work.
These individuals have not only risen to fame but have also built considerable fortunes.
While Hitgist have talked about young billionaires in Nigeria, top tech experts in Nigeria richest Yahoo boys in Nigeria, richest lawyers in Nigeria, richest musicians in Nigeria in this series, we are going to talk about the top 10 richest Igbo celebrities in Nigeria as of 2024 and their net worth.
1. Obi Cubana – $96 million
Obinna “Obi” Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, was born on April 12, 1975, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and hails from Oba in the Idemili South Local Government Area. He is a successful businessman, entertainer, and philanthropist, currently serving as the Chairman of the Cubana Group.
In 1998, Obi Cubana earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. His entrepreneurial journey began in 2006 when he opened a nightclub called Ibiza Club in Abuja. By 2009, he expanded his ventures by launching the Cubana hospitality club in Owerri, Imo State.
Today, Obi Cubana is recognized as one of Nigeria’s wealthiest and most influential figures, excelling in entertainment, event promotion, and entrepreneurship. His net worth is estimated at $96 million (₦67 billion), encompassing his income, properties, and assets.
2. Jowi Zaza – $80Million
Jowi Zaza, born Joseph Eze Okafor Jr., is a well-known Nigerian billionaire and prominent Igbo celebrity. At 36, he has amassed considerable wealth, sparking rumors and speculation, with some labeling him a Yahoo boy. He attended Sacred Heart Seminary Nsude in Enugu State for his secondary education, followed by Madonna University Okija. He later pursued post-graduate studies at Coventry University in London and Kelce College of Business.
Jowi Zaza is the CEO of Jezco Oil and Lubricants, a company founded by his father, Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor. With a net worth in the billions of naira, he is regarded as one of Nigeria’s wealthiest individuals. Despite his fortune, Jowi Zaza maintains a low-profile lifestyle. He owns an impressive collection of luxury vehicles both in Nigeria and abroad. His estimated wealth is valued at around $80 million.
3. E-Money – $55million
Emeka Okonkwo, widely known as E-Money, is a Nigerian entrepreneur, investor, and business tycoon, serving as the CEO of Five Star Music. Born on February 18, 1981, in Ajegunle, Lagos, he earned his nickname from his penchant for lavish spending and showcasing a luxurious lifestyle, with some referring to him as “Arabic money” due to his extravagant generosity.
E-Money’s net worth is estimated at $55 million, derived from various ventures, including his oil and gas business, shipping and delivery services, record label, and hotel investments.
4. Jim Iyke – $30million
Jim Iyke, born James Ikechukwu Esomugha on September 25, 1976, is a renowned Nigerian actor. He completed his secondary education at F.G.C. Kwali Abuja from 1985 to 1991, later obtaining a diploma in Banking and Finance and a BSc in Philosophy from the University of Jos in Plateau State.
Rising to fame in 2001, Jim Iyke has appeared in over 150 films and is recognized as one of Nollywood’s top and wealthiest actors. With an estimated net worth of around $30 million, he ranks among the richest celebrities in Nigeria.
5. Linda Ikeji – $50million
Linda Ifeoma Ikeji is a Nigerian blogger, writer, entrepreneur, and former model who rose to fame through her blog and controversial online publications. Born on September 19, 1980, in Nkwerre, Imo State, Nigeria, she graduated from university in 2004 and began blogging as a hobby in 2006, at a time when internet access in Nigeria was limited, often posting from a cybercafé.
Linda Ikeji’s net worth is estimated to exceed $50 million. She is one of the most searched personalities in Nigeria and has built a reputation for her blog as a trusted platform for online advertising. Companies and banks view her blog as an effective medium for reaching their audience, with Guaranty Trust Bank and Globacom Limited (Glo) placing a monthly sidebar ad worth 1 million naira for several years.
6. Basket Mouth – $20 million
Bright Okpocha, popularly known as Basketmouth, was born on September 14, 1978, in Lagos State, Nigeria, but he hails from Abia State. He is a renowned Nigerian comedian and actor, celebrated for organizing popular stand-up comedy concerts, including the globally recognized Basketmouth Uncensored.
Basketmouth completed his primary and secondary education in Apapa, Lagos, before earning a degree in Sociology and Anthropology from the University of Benin in Edo State.
With a substantial accumulation of wealth, Basketmouth is considered one of the richest comedians in Nigeria, with an estimated net worth of $20 million.
7. Cubana Chief Priest – $18million
Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, is a prominent figure in Nigeria. He is a show promoter, businessman, and the owner of Club Xhrine in Owerri. Born on April 2, 1981, in Umuhu Okabia, Orsu Local Government Area, Imo State, he attended the Federal Polytechnic Nekede in Owerri, where he earned a Doctor of Science degree in Event and Luxury Hospitality Management.
With an estimated net worth of $18 million, Cubana Chief Priest has achieved significant financial success through his entrepreneurial ventures, show promotions, and notable brand endorsements, including Bullet Drink.
He recently completed his luxury restaurant named De Angels situated in Lagos, Nigeria where Davido and other top Nigerian celebrities were invited for the grand opening.
8. Phyno – $20million
Phyno, born Chibuzo Nelson Azubuike on October 9, 1986, in Enugu State, is one of Nigeria’s richest musicians with an estimated net worth of $20 million. Renowned as one of the best indigenous rappers in the country, he is celebrated for rapping in the Igbo language.
Although Phyno grew up in Enugu, his family roots are in Anambra State. He started his music career in 2003 as a producer and gained recognition for his unique style of rapping in Igbo. In 2014, he released his debut studio album, No Guts No Glory, which featured hit singles like “Ghost Mode,” “Man of the Year,” “Parcel,” and “O Set.”
Throughout his career, Phyno has collaborated with top artists including Olamide, Wizkid, Davido, Timaya, Flavour, Ruggedman, Bracket, J. Martins, and Mr. Raw.
In September 2024, Phyno made headlines as he acquired a Maybach 680 worth N800 million. See below;
9. Genevieve Nnaji – $15million
Genevieve Nnaji, born on May 3, 1979, in Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria, grew up in Lagos and earned a bachelor’s degree in creative arts from the University of Lagos. While still a student, she began auditioning for acting roles in the film industry.
In 2005, she made history by winning the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role, becoming the first actor to achieve this distinction. In 2011, the Nigerian government honored her as a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic for her contributions to Nollywood. Genevieve Nnaji’s estimated net worth is $15 million.
10. Pete Edochie – $4million
Pete Edochie is one of the wealthiest Igbo celebrities in Nigeria, with an estimated net worth of $4 million. Born on March 7, 1947, in Zaria, he hails from Anambra State in southeastern Nigeria.
After completing his secondary education, Edochie studied Journalism and Television in England. He began his career at age 20 in radio broadcasting as a junior program assistant, eventually rising to the position of director of programs and occasionally serving as Deputy Managing Director and Acting Managing Director.
Edochie transitioned into the movie industry after leaving radio broadcasting due to political changes in the station. His exceptional talent earned him numerous accolades, including an Industry Merit Award from Africa Magic and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Africa Film Academy.