July is a notable month on Nigeria’s entertainment calendar. It marks the birthdays of some of the country’s biggest music stars, award‑winning actors, comedians, gospel ministers and internationally recognised entertainers who have helped shape African pop culture.
From Grammy‑winning Afrobeats superstars to Nollywood icons and social‑media sensations, these July‑born celebrities have left an unforgettable mark on the industry both at home and abroad. Whether through music, film, comedy or fashion, they continue to inspire millions of fans worldwide.
Burna Boy – Afrobeats Global Star
Born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Burna Boy first grabbed attention in 2012 with the hit “Like to Party.” Since then he has risen to become one of Africa’s biggest musical exports, blending Afrobeats, dancehall, reggae, hip‑hop and Afro‑fusion.
His 2020 album Twice As Tall won the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album, making him one of the few Nigerian artists to claim the prestigious honour. Burna Boy has sold out iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden in New York, London Stadium and Paris La Défense Arena.
Some of his biggest tracks include “Last Last,” “Ye,” “Anybody,” “Gbona,” “City Boys,” “On the Low” and “Common Person.”
Richard Mofe‑Damijo (RMD) – Nollywood Veteran
Richard Mofe‑Damijo, widely known as RMD, is regarded as one of the greatest actors in Nollywood history. Born in Delta State, he began his career as a journalist before transitioning into acting and later politics.
RMD became a leading man during the 1990s and has remained relevant for over three decades. Aside from acting, he served as Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State.
His impressive filmography features titles such as Out of Bounds, Diamond Ring, The Wedding Party, Castle & Castle and Shanty Town. Today, he remains one of Nigeria’s most respected actors and filmmakers.
Olu Jacobs – Nollywood Pioneer
Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, better known as Olu Jacobs, is one of the founding fathers of modern Nollywood. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and appeared in British television productions before returning to Nigeria.
For more than four decades, Jacobs has featured in hundreds of films and television productions, earning numerous lifetime‑achievement awards. He is married to legendary actress Joke Silva, forming one of Nollywood’s most celebrated couples.
Rita Dominic – Award‑Winning Actress
Rita Dominic, born into the royal Nwaturuocha family of Aboh Mbaise in Imo State, began acting as a child and grew into one of Nollywood’s biggest stars. Her versatility has earned her multiple Africa Movie Academy Awards, Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and international recognitions.
Notable films include The Meeting, 76, La Femme Anjola, Iyore and Light in the Dark. Besides acting, she is also a film producer and entrepreneur.
Wizkid – Afrobeats International Sensation
Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, known worldwide as Wizkid, ranks among Africa’s biggest music stars. His collaboration with Drake on “One Dance” became a global number‑one hit, while “Essence” featuring Tems made history as the first Nigerian song to reach the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10.
In 2021, Wizkid won a Grammy Award for his contribution to Beyoncé’s “Brown Skin Girl.” His biggest hits include “Ojuelegba,” “Essence,” “Joro,” “Fever,” “Come Closer” and “Piece of My Heart.” Today he remains a leading figure in global Afrobeats.
Kate Henshaw – Accomplished Actress & Advocate
Kate Henshaw began her acting career in the early 1990s and has appeared in over 200 films. Beyond the screen, she is a television personality, fitness enthusiast and social advocate known for her discipline and youthful appearance.
Some of her notable works are Stronger Than Pain, Broken Tears, The Meeting and Chief Daddy. Kate continues to inspire millions of Nigerians across the nation.
Mr Eazi – Banku Music Pioneer & Entrepreneur
Oluwatosin Ajibade, popularly known as Mr Eazi, pioneered the Banku music genre—a fusion of Ghanaian highlife and Nigerian chord progressions. Born in Port Harcourt, he studied in Ghana before launching his music career.
His biggest songs include “Leg Over,” “Pour Me Water,” “Skin Tight,” “Property” and “ Hollup.” Beyond music, Mr Eazi is a successful entrepreneur and founder of emPawa Africa, a talent‑incubation platform that has supported emerging African musicians.
Frank Edwards – Gospel Music Icon
Frank Edwards is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated gospel musicians. As a singer, songwriter, pianist and songwriter, pianist and producer, he rose to prominence through inspirational worship songs.
Over the years he has released numerous successful albums and collaborated with internationally renowned gospel artists. Popular tracks include “You Too Dey Bless Me,” “Under the Canopy,” “Mma Mma” and “Oghene Doh.” He is also the founder of Rocktown Records.
Emmanuella – Comedy Sensation
Emmanuella Samuel became one of Africa’s youngest comedy sensations after appearing in the Mark Angel Comedy series. Her viral skits amassed millions of views on YouTube and social media, earning her international attention.
Despite starting as a child comedian, Emmanuella has evolved into an actress, content creator and influencer with fans across Africa and beyond. She has received several awards, including recognition from Nickelodeon and other international organisations.
Jacob Banks – Soulful International Artist
Born in Lagos before relocating to the United Kingdom, Jacob Banks is an internationally acclaimed singer and songwriter known for his powerful baritone voice and soulful style. His music blends soul, R&B, alternative and gospel influences.
Popular projects include Village, Chainsmoking, Mercy and Unknown (To You). He has performed at major music festivals worldwide and collaborated with several international artists.
Johnny Drille – Distinctive Singer‑Songwriter
Signed to Mavin Records, Johnny Drille is known for his soulful voice, acoustic sound and heartfelt songwriting. Before his breakthrough, he gained national attention after competing in Project Fame West Africa.
Some of his biggest songs are “Wait for Me,” “How Are You (My Friend),” “Believe Me,” “Romeo & Juliet” and “Count on You.” His emotionally rich music has earned him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
From Grammy winners like Burna Boy and Wizkid to Nollywood legends such as Richard Mofe‑Damijo, Olu Jacobs and Rita Dominic, July is home to some of the biggest names in African entertainment. The month also celebrates gospel excellence through Frank Edwards, comedy through Emmanuella, soulful music through Johnny Drille and Jacob Banks, and entrepreneurial success through Mr Eazi.
Together, these July‑born stars continue to shape Nigeria’s creative industry, promote African culture globally and inspire the next generation of entertainers.
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