Meet foreign celebrities with Nigerian heritage

Nigerian roots run deep in the global entertainment world, with many foreign-born stars proudly embracing their heritage. From actors like Caroline Chichezie and Toheeb Jimoh to musicians such as Dave and Sade Adu, these talents have made waves in film, TV, and music. Their stories are a celebration of culture, creativity, and success. In this […]

Nigerian roots run deep in the global entertainment world, with many foreign-born stars proudly embracing their heritage. From actors like Caroline Chichezie and Toheeb Jimoh to musicians such as Dave and Sade Adu, these talents have made waves in film, TV, and music. Their stories are a celebration of culture, creativity, and success. In this feature, Weekend Trust takes a closer look at these celebrities and their achievements.

Film Stars

Caroline Chikezie

Prominent for her recent role as Noma in the Power series, Caroline Chikezie is a British actress of Nigerian descent, known for her versatile performances in television, film, and theatre. Chikezie has also appeared in notable TV series such as The Governor, footballers’ wives, The Shannara chronicles, as well as films like Aeon Flux (2005) and Breaking and Entering (2006), Eragon (2006). Beyond acting, she is recognized for her advocacy for diversity and representation in the entertainment industry.

 

Toheeb Jimoh

Toheeb Jimoh is a British-Nigerian actor known for playing Sam Obisanya in Ted Lasso (2020–2023). His role as the kind and determined footballer earned him an Emmy nomination in 2022. Born in London on February 6, 1997, to Nigerian parents, Jimoh studied acting at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. He has also appeared in TV shows like The Feed and stage productions.

 

Gbenga Akinnagbe

Gbenga Akinnagbe is a Nigerian-American actor best known for playing Chris Partlow in The Wire (2002–2008). Born on December 12, 1978, in Washington, D.C., to Nigerian parents, he studied political science at Bucknell University before pursuing acting. Akinnagbe has appeared in TV shows like The Deuce and The Old Man, and films such as The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009). He is also an activist, focusing on social justice and human rights, and runs Liberated People, a clothing brand promoting positive messages.

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Adetomiwa Edun

Adetomiwa Edun is a British-Nigerian actor known for his roles in film, TV, and theatre. Born on March 16, 1985, in Lagos, Nigeria, he moved to the UK and studied at Cambridge University. Edun gained recognition for playing Sir Elyan in Merlin (2008–2012) and has appeared in shows like Bates Motel and Lucifer. He also starred in the film Belle (2013). As a trained stage actor, Edun has also performed with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

 

Gina Yashere

Gina Yashere is a British-Nigerian comedian, actress, and writer known for her humour and bold style. Born on April 6, 1974, in London to Nigerian parents, she started as an engineer before turning to comedy. Yashere gained fame in the UK with stand-up and TV appearances, then moved to the U.S., where she became a writer and producer for The Bob Hearts Abishola show. She is also known for her comedy specials and advocacy for diversity in entertainment.

 

Tracy Ifeachor

Tracy Ifeachor is a British actress of Nigerian and Welsh descent, known for her roles in TV shows like The Originals (2015–2016) as Aya and Treadstone (2019) as Ellen Cameron. Born on March 9, 1985, in Plymouth, England, she studied acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). Ifeachor has also appeared in Doctor Who and Crossbones. Her performances are praised for their depth and intensity, making her a standout talent in both British and international television.

 

Deborah Ayorinde

Deborah Ayorinde is a British-Nigerian actress known for her roles in Girls Trip (2017) and Them (2021). Born on May 21, 1988, in London to Nigerian parents, she grew up in the U.S. and studied acting at the New York Film Academy. Ayorinde gained attention for her performance in Luke Cage (2016–2018) and won an NAACP Image Award for Them.

 

Yetide Badaki

Yetide Badaki is a Nigerian-American actress best known for her role as Bilquis in American Gods (2017–2021). Born on September 23, 1981, in Ibadan, Nigeria, she moved to the U.S. as a child. Badaki studied theater and psychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara. She has also appeared in shows like This Is Us and Lost in Space.

 

Musicians

Odeal

Odeal is a British-Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer known for his genre-bending music, which fuses R&B, Afrobeat, and alternative sounds. Emerging as a fresh voice in the UK music scene, he entered the industry with his debut single “Need me a girl” in 2017, followed by the critically acclaimed EP OVMBR: Hearts Still Beat (2020). His deep lyrics and smooth vocal delivery have earned him a growing fan base and comparisons to artists like Frank Ocean and Brent Faiyaz. Odeal also picked up best newcomer and best R&B/soul artist at the recent 2025 MOBO awards.

 

Dave

Dave, born David Orobosa Omoregie, June 5, 1998, in London, is a British rapper, singer, and songwriter. Known for his introspective lines and narratives, he rose to prominence with songs such as “Thiago Silva” and “Funky Friday.” His debut album, Psychodrama (2019), received the Mercury Prize and topped the UK charts. Dave also addresses societal themes, as evidenced in his powerful single “Black.” He remains a prominent figure in UK music, fusing grime, hip-hop, and R&B.

 

Tyler the creator

Tyler the Creator is an American rapper, singer, producer, and designer known for his bold music and unique style. His real name is Tyler Gregory Okonma and was born in Los Angeles, California. Tyler gained fame as the leader of the group Odd Future. His albums, like IGOR (2019) and Call Me If You Get Lost (2021), won Grammy Awards. Tyler also founded the clothing brand Golf Wang and the music festival Camp Flog Gnaw. He is widely celebrated for his creativity and influence in music and fashion.

 

Darkoo

Darkoo is a British-Nigerian singer and rapper best known for her single “Gangsta” (2019), which went viral and peaked in the United Kingdom. She was born in Nigeria and reared in London, and her music combines Afrobeat, rap, and UK drill. Darkoo earned more attention for her appearance on Headie One’s “Princess Cuts” (2020). Her original style and strong delivery have propelled her to the forefront of the UK music scene, where she has a growing loyal following and international recognition. At the 2025 MOBO awards, Darkoo won best female act and song of the year, for Favourite Girl.

 

Femi Koleoso and TJ Koleoso

Femi Koleoso and TJ Koleoso are brothers and key members of Ezra Collective, a groundbreaking British jazz band. Femi Koleoso, the drummer, is known for his energetic style, often driving the band’s vibrant sound. He has also worked with artists like Gorillaz and Jorja Smith. TJ Koleoso, the bassist, brings a deep, groovy foundation to the band’s music, fusing afrobeat and jazz influences. Both brothers grew up in London in a Nigerian household, where music played a central role. Their passion and talent have helped Ezra Collective redefine modern jazz, earning them international acclaim and the 2023 Mercury Prize for their album Where I’m Meant To Be.

 

Jidenna

Jidenna is a Nigerian-American singer, songwriter, and rapper known for his hit single Classic Man (2015), which earned him two Grammy nomination. Jidenna gained fame with his debut album The Chief (2017) and continues to release music celebrating African culture. He is also an advocate for African empowerment and education, using his platform to inspire and uplift communities.

 

Seal

Seal Henry Olusegun Olumide Adeola Samuel, known as Seal, is a British singer and songwriter born to a Nigerian mother and an Afro-Brazilian father. He has achieved international success with hits like “Kiss from a Rose” and has won multiple Grammy Awards.

 

Tunde Baiyewu

Emmanuel Babatunde Baiyewu, known professionally as Tunde Baiyewu, is a British-Nigerian singer and songwriter. He is best known as the lead vocalist of the 1990s band Lighthouse Family, famous for hits like “High” and “Ocean Drive.” Born on October 10, 1965, in London to Nigerian parents, Tunde grew up in Newcastle. His voice became a signature of the band’s sound. After Lighthouse Family disbanded, he pursued a solo career, releasing albums like Tunde (2004) and Diamond in a Rock (2013). Tunde is also known for his philanthropic work, supporting education and health projects in Nigeria.

 

 Sade Adu

Helen Folasade Adu, known as Sade, is a British-Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress. Born in Ibadan, Nigeria gained popularity as the lead vocalist of the band Sade, known for their calming jazz and soul music. Her contributions to music have earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards.