Nigerian Celebrities Join US Military: A Growing Trend
The Nigerian entertainment industry, known for producing stars in acting, music, and creative arts, has seen a notable shift in recent years. Several top entertainers who relocated to the United States have chosen to enlist in the US military, trading the spotlight for service. This article profiles four Nigerian celebrities who have become officers in the US Armed Forces, outlines how foreigners can join, and details the benefits of military service.
1. Joseph Momodu: Nollywood Actor Becomes US Army Specialist
Nollywood actor Joseph Momodu, now based in Los Angeles, California, completed Basic Combat Training with the US Army in April 2026. He is the first known male Nollywood actor to enlist in the US Army. Momodu spent 10 weeks cut off from communication, undergoing rigorous physical and mental training. He earned the designation Specialist (SPC) J.A. Momodu, assigned to 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, 3-10, 3rd Battalion, 10th Infantry Regiment, Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Momodu, known for films like Coming to Nigeria and Play 2 Kill, said his late father's service in the Nigeria Police Force motivated his decision, calling it a tribute to that legacy.
2. Grace Bassey: From Nollywood to US Navy Officer
In May 2025, Grace-Charis Bassey, formerly known in Nollywood as Belinda Effah, joined the US Navy and received American citizenship after completing boot camp. The Africa Movie Academy Award winner for Most Promising Act of the Year dedicated her enlistment to her late father, a naval commander. Bassey shared her transformation on social media, inspiring fans. Legit.ng also reported that Bassey later announced her engagement in 2026.
3. Mayowa Dosu: Actress Joins US Army in 2024
Nollywood actress and producer Mayowa Dosu enlisted in the US military in 2024 after relocating from Nigeria. She has appeared in films such as Fears, Mamami, and Compromise. Dosu described the transition as a significant direction change but has shared fewer details about her motivation compared to others on this list. A video of Dosu with US military colleagues circulated online.
4. Princess Chineke: Beauty Queen Becomes US Military Officer
Actress and former beauty queen Princess Chineke joined the US military in 2024 following her relocation. She has starred in movies like To Love a Sister, Stormy Hearts, and Masters at War. Chineke stated that her decision to enlist was a commitment to serve the country where she chose to build her life. She also shared a video explaining how to join the US military.
How to Join the US Military as a Foreigner
According to usa.gov, each military branch sets its own enlistment standards. Non-citizens must have a U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), speak, read, and write English fluently. They cannot join the military to enter the U.S. or obtain a visa. Age limits vary by branch: Air Force (17-42), Army (17-35), Coast Guard (17-41), Marine Corps (17-28), Navy (17-41), and Space Force (17-42). All recruits must take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), hold a high school diploma or GED (a four-year college degree is required to join as an officer), and pass a medical exam and physical fitness test.
Benefits of Joining the US Military
Beyond salary, non-citizens can fast-track U.S. citizenship. Service members receive fully funded healthcare, guaranteed housing allowances, educational benefits covering university degrees during or after service, and retirement benefits. Legit.ng previously reported that the US Army publishes annual salary breakdowns for officers, with pay increasing after certain years of service.
