Over the years, a growing number of Nollywood actors have traded film sets for military uniforms, enlisting in the United States armed forces. While their colleagues remain in the entertainment spotlight, a select few have chosen a different path, one defined by discipline, service, and sacrifice.
TheCable Lifestyle highlights four Nollywood actors who have taken the bold step of joining the US military:
1. Joseph Momodu
Momodu enlisted in the US military this year, describing the decision as a personal mission to honour his late father, a former officer in the Nigeria Police Force. For him, joining the armed forces was about “picking up the baton,” a tribute to his father’s legacy, two decades after his passing.
2. Princess Chineke
In 2024, former beauty queen, model, and actress Princess Chineke joined the growing list of Nollywood stars who have taken up US military service since relocating abroad. She announced her new identity as a US army official by sharing photos in uniform, reciting the soldiers’ creed, and seeking divine guidance as she embarked on her new journey.
3. Mayowa Dosu
Actress and filmmaker Mayowa Dosu also charted a new course in 2024, enlisting in the US army.
She marked the milestone on Instagram after successfully completing her military training, writing: “I am an American Soldier, I am a warrior and a member of a team. I serve the people of the United States and live the Army values. Oops! What a journey. Who missed me? Sorry I was busy being an American soldier.”
4. Grace-Charis Bassey
The actress formerly known as Belinda Effah announced in 2025 that she had enlisted in the US navy. She shared a photo in naval uniform and dedicated her achievement to her late father Asido Bassey Effah, who also served in the military.
