Every industry has its icons, but in Nollywood, it’s the nicknames that truly make the stars unforgettable. Whether you grew up watching Jennifer, Sanyeri, or Iya Gbonkan, these names carry nostalgia, laughter, and years of cinematic memories.
A trending post by content creator Ayeni Abayomi has reignited fans’ love for these legendary tags — sparking laughter, memories, and a flood of social media comments celebrating Nigeria’s favorite movie personalities.
🎬 Here Are Some of Nollywood’s Most Popular Nicknames
From veterans to new-gen stars, these nicknames have become household names across Nigeria and beyond:
• Funke Akindele — Jennifer
• Bolaji Amusan — Mr Latin
• Femi Adebayo — Jelili
• Toyin Abraham — Alakada
• Margaret Bandele Olayinka — Iya Gbonkan
• Afonja Olaniyi — Sanyeri
• Adekola Tijani — Kamilu
• Adebayo Salami — Oga Bello
• Wale Akorede — Okunnu
• Kudirat Abeniade — Madam No Network
• Kareem Adepoju — Baba Wande
• Muidin Oladapo — Lala
• Tolani Oyabamiji (Sisi Quadri) 🕊️
• Funmi Awelewa — Morili
• Babatunde Omidina (Baba Suwe) 🕊️
• Yomi King — Opebe
• Toyin Oladiran — Abeni Agbon
• Tunde Usman — Okele
• Toyin Afolayan — Lola Idije
• Olatayo Amokeade — Ijebu
• James Olanrewaju — Baba Ijesa
• Fausat Balogun — Madam Saje
• Taiwo Hassan — Ogogo
• Lanre Hassan — Iya Awero
• Odunlade Adekola — Saamu Alajo
• Ronke Ojo — Ronke Oshodi Oke
• Bukky Wright — Omotara Johnson
• Ibrahim Yekini — Itele
• Ibrahim Chatta — Babatapa
(and many more timeless names from Nollywood’s golden generation)
Fans Celebrate the Legends
After Ayeni Abayomi’s post went viral, fans filled the comments with laughter and gratitude.
“Some of these names are part of our childhood memories,” one user wrote.
“You can’t hear Mr Latin or Iya Gbonkan and not smile.”
Others pointed out that many of these nicknames have outgrown their original movie roles — becoming part of Nigeria’s pop culture identity
Why It Matters
Nicknames in Nollywood aren’t just stage names; they’ve become symbols of legacy. They mark a connection between actors and audiences — a shared language that has lasted decades.
From Jennifer’s sass to Saamu Alajo’s mischief, each name carries its own story, laughter, and cultural pride.
🗞️ Final Word
In the ever-evolving world of Nollywood, where new stars rise every day, these classic nicknames remind everyone where it all began. They’re more than just names — they’re history, emotion, and identity rolled into one.
Nollywood may have changed, but Jennifer, Mr Latin, Ogogo, and Madam Saje will forever be part of its heartbeat.
