His pioneering spirit, the enduring legacy of his iconic characters, his versatility as an actor, his role as a cultural unifier, and his inspirational journey have collectively shaped Nollywood into the dynamic and influential force it is today
Emmanuel Thomas l Friday, May 15, 2025
LAGOS, Nigeria – The 11th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) held on May 11, 2025, was a night to celebrate cinematic excellence across the continent.
Among the esteemed honorees was the legendary Nkem Owoh, who, alongside Sani Mu’azu, received the prestigious Industry Merit Award. This recognition wasn’t just a pat on the back; it was a resounding acknowledgment of a career that has not only spanned decades but has also profoundly shaped the landscape of Nigerian cinema, Nollywood.
To consider Nkem Owoh as simply an “artiste” feels almost reductive. While he embodies the essence of an artist through his acting, comedic timing, musical talents, and screenwriting prowess, his impact transcends mere artistic expression.
He is an art form himself – a unique and enduring presence whose contributions have become an indelible part of Nigeria’s cultural fabric.
Why, then, did he so deservedly clinch the AMVCA Industry Merit Award?
The reasons are multifaceted and deeply rooted in his remarkable journey:
A Pioneer and Influencer: Nkem Owoh’s career trajectory mirrors the growth of Nollywood itself. Starting as a scriptwriter for iconic Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) productions like “The New Masquerade” and “Basi and Company,” he was present at the nascent stages of storytelling for the screen.
He even played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in the groundbreaking film “Living in Bondage” (1992) by handling its subtitling, a movie widely regarded as the one that birthed Nollywood.
His early foray into acting in movies like “Circle of Doom” quickly established his on-screen charisma and versatility.
The Enduring Power of “Osuofia”: The character of “Osuofia,” first introduced in “Ikuku” (1995) and then catapulted to international fame with “Osuofia in London” (2003), is arguably one of the most iconic and beloved characters in Nigerian cinema history. Owoh’s portrayal of the naive yet street-smart village man navigating the complexities of urban life, both at home and abroad, resonated deeply with audiences.
“Osuofia” became more than just a character; it became a cultural touchstone, a source of laughter, and a representation of the Nigerian spirit navigating a globalized world. This role alone cemented his place as a comedic genius with impeccable timing and a magnetic on-screen presence.
Versatility Beyond Comedy: While widely celebrated for his comedic roles, Nkem Owoh’s talent extends far beyond making audiences laugh. He has showcased his dramatic range in films like “Stronger Than Pain,” for which he won the Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2008. This ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and serious roles underscores his depth and commitment to the craft of acting.
A Cultural Icon and Unifier: For decades, Nkem Owoh has brought joy and laughter to millions across Nigeria and the African continent.
His films transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, uniting communities through shared humor and storytelling. Even his foray into music, with the satirical hit “I Go Chop Your Dollar,” though controversial, became a talking point and further ingrained him in popular culture.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his congratulatory message on Owoh’s 70th birthday, aptly noted that his iconic roles, particularly as Osuofia, have “etched his name in the annals of our cultural history” and that he “used laughter and creativity to reflect our society’s vibrancy and resilience.”
A Mentor and Inspiration: With a career spanning over four decades and featuring in an estimated 350 films, Nkem Owoh’s dedication, hard work, and consistent delivery of memorable performances serve as an inspiration to aspiring actors and filmmakers in Nollywood.
His journey from a scriptwriter to a celebrated actor demonstrates the possibilities within the industry and the importance of perseverance.
The AMVCA Industry Merit Award bestowed upon Nkem Owoh is a well-deserved tribute to a man who is not just an artiste but an embodiment of the art itself.
His pioneering spirit, the enduring legacy of his iconic characters, his versatility as an actor, his role as a cultural unifier, and his inspirational journey have collectively shaped Nollywood into the dynamic and influential force it is today.
He is a national treasure, and this award rightly celebrates his monumental contributions to African cinema. He was however not present to receive the award.
