Nigerian Celebrities Prioritizing International Upbringing for Their Children
Many Nigerian celebrities have made a life-changing investment: giving their children an international upbringing. Whether relocating their families to Canada, the United States, or the United Kingdom, or sending their children overseas for quality education, these stars have openly documented their parenting journeys. Some shuttle between Nigeria and their adopted countries to keep their careers alive, while others have fully relocated to be closer to their children.
Wale Akorede (Okunnu) – Canada-Based Family Man
Veteran Yoruba actor Wale Akorede, popularly known as Okunnu, is one of the clearest examples of a celebrity whose family has been based abroad. For several years, the comic actor lived apart from his wife and three children after they relocated to Canada. While he remained in Nigeria filming movies, his children attended school and built their lives overseas.
In 2023, Okunnu proudly celebrated his son Hassan's graduation from Humber College in Ontario, sharing photos that drew congratulatory messages from colleagues and fans. Two years later, the actor emotionally reunited with his family after relocating to Canada. He revealed that after eight years apart, being with his wife and children finally made the country feel like home.
Mercy Aigbe – Proud Mum of a Canada Graduate
Mercy Aigbe has never hidden the sacrifices she made to give her daughter, Michelle Gentry, a quality education abroad. Michelle moved to Canada for university and graduated from the University of Manitoba in 2023. The actress became emotional while celebrating the milestone, recalling the financial and emotional burden of raising a child overseas as a single mother before she remarried filmmaker Kazim Adeoti.
Uche Jombo – US-Based Nollywood Mum
Uche Jombo has successfully balanced life in Nollywood with motherhood in the United States. After marrying Kenny Rodriguez, the actress settled in America, where she has raised their son, Matthew. Although she frequently returns to Nigeria to produce and star in movies, she has maintained that family remains her biggest priority.
Stella Damasus – Raising Daughters in America
Stella Damasus has spent more than a decade living in the United States with her daughters. Following the death of her first husband, Jaiye Aboderin, the actress relocated abroad, where her daughters completed much of their education. She has often spoken about the realities of raising teenagers in America while ensuring they remain connected to their Nigerian roots and values. Although she still appears in Nollywood productions, Stella's family life has largely remained US-based.
Peter Okoye (Mr P) – International Celebrity Dad
Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, has given his children an international upbringing. His wife, Lola Omotayo-Okoye, and their children, Cameron and Aliona, spend significant time abroad, where the children have pursued their education while excelling in sports and other extracurricular activities. The singer frequently shares proud moments from their academic and sporting achievements on social media, even as he continues to perform across Africa.
Timi Dakolo – Supporting UK-Based Scholars
Singer Timi Dakolo and his wife, Busola, have been intentional about giving their children access to international education. Over the years, the couple has shared emotional moments as some of their children left Nigeria to continue their studies in the United Kingdom. While the Dakolos remain based in Nigeria, they frequently travel abroad to visit the children and celebrate important family milestones together. Their parenting journey has earned admiration from fans, who often praise the family's close bond despite the distance.
Impact and Trends
These celebrities exemplify a growing trend among affluent Nigerian families who seek global opportunities for their children. The decision to raise or educate children abroad often involves significant financial and emotional sacrifices, but many parents view it as an investment in their children's future. The trend also highlights the global nature of Nollywood, where stars maintain careers in Nigeria while building family lives overseas.
