Meet the Nollywood Stars Now Serving in the U.S. Military

Many Nigerian actors have been making headlines recently by changing their careers from films into the military uniform, as they join the US armed forces after relocating overseas.

While most of the Nollywood actors keep growing in their respective careers in the entertainment industry, there are those few that have gone a different way altogether – one that is marked with discipline, patriotism, and public service. Their actions have drawn a lot of admiration from fans as they demonstrate that life outside the entertainment industry is possible too.

Some of the Nigerian actors who have joined the US armed forces are listed below.

1. Joseph Momodu

Joseph Momodu

One of the most recent actors in the Nigerian film industry known as Nollywood to join the American military is Joseph Momodu who did so in 2026.

In making this announcement, Momodu revealed that his choice was very personal and was based on his desire to keep alive the legacy of his deceased father who was formerly an officer of the Nigeria Police Force.

Momodu says that his reason for joining the military was to pick the baton left by his father some twenty years after his death.

2. Princess Chineke

Princess Chineke

Former beauty pageant winner, model, and actress Princess Chineke enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2024 following her move to the United States.

She launched her new venture by uploading photos of herself in military attire on social media, in which she recited the Soldier’s Creed with pride and thanked God for helping her make the transition.

This announcement came as a shock to many of her fans, who saw her become one of the few Nollywood actresses known to enlist in the U.S. Army.

3. Mayowa Dosu

Mayowa Dosu

Actress and filmmaker Mayowa Dosu also began a new chapter in 2024 by enlisting in the U.S. Army.

After successfully completing her military training, she celebrated the achievement on Instagram with a heartfelt message reflecting on the demanding journey.

“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.”

Her announcement attracted widespread support from fans and fellow entertainers, many of whom applauded her determination and resilience.

4. Grace-Charis Bassey

Grace-Charis Bassey

Grace-Charis Bassey, formerly called Belinda Effah, revealed in 2025 that she had joined the U.S. Navy.

Posting images of herself in naval regalia, she marked the occasion as a tribute to her father, Asido Bassey Effah, who had also been a member of the military force.

For the actress, joining the Navy meant much more than just a change in her career; it was her dream come true and also a mark of respect to her father’s services.

A New Chapter Beyond Nollywood

These artists have opted for a unique path after having been active in Nollywood. They have decided to change their path and venture into the career of being part of the US military forces, showing how people can change careers in different ways.

Though the paths taken may be different, all these people have one thing in common; the fact that they have opted to leave their known careers and embrace lives that will be characterized by dedication and service.Meet the Nollywood Stars Now Serving in the US Military