Over the years, several Nollywood actors have left the country in search of better opportunities, education, or a more peaceful life.
While some stayed away for years, others have returned to reclaim their place in the movie industry.
Here are seven movie stars who relocated abroad for greener pastures.
1. Frank Donga
Comedian and actor Kunle Idowu, popularly known as Frank Donga, recently confirmed that he has relocated to Canada. Earlier this week, the Hakkunde star announced that he now works as a multimedia communications specialist with the Ministry of Agriculture in Saskatchewan, Canada. His move marks a major shift from his Nollywood career to the public sector abroad.
2. Regina Askia-Williams
Former beauty queen and actress Regina Askia left Nigeria for the United States in the early 2000s. The Most Wanted actress later switched careers, studying nursing at Wagner College, New York and is now a family nurse practitioner. She occasionally revisits acting and participates in social advocacy projects.
3. Bukky Wright
Actress Bukky Wright took a long break from acting to focus on raising her children abroad. During that period, she diversified her skills and even earned certification in information or cyber security. She has since made a deliberate return to Nollywood. In 2024, she featured in Red Circle, and in early 2025 she made a high-profile comeback in Something About the Briggs.
4. Georgina Onuoha
Actress Georgina Onuoha relocated to the United States after her marriage. Following her separation, she remained abroad with her daughters. The Living in Bondage star now works as a healthcare professional and occasionally comments on social issues affecting Nigeria.
5. Victoria Inyama
Victoria Inyama moved to the United Kingdom after marrying author Godwin Okri. Following their separation, she furthered her studies in counseling and psychology. The actress is now based in London and continues to advocate against domestic violence and mental health stigma.
6. Sola Sobowale
Sola Sobowale took a break from Nollywood and moved to the United Kingdom to focus on her family. The King of Boys actress said she left to raise her children, describing how she worked menial jobs such as cleaning, cooking, and caregiving during her stay abroad. After about 15 years away, she made a strong return to the Nigerian film industry in 2016 with The Wedding Party. Since then, she has featured in several hit movies, including Anikulapo and Battle on Buka Street.
7. Jim Iyke
Known for his “bad boy” roles, Jim Iyke has spent considerable time outside Nigeria. During the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, the actor revealed that he was stuck in Paris for months. He has also lived in Ghana, where he established a film production company and expanded his business interests.
