Alice Iyabo Ojo is one of Nigeria’s most recognised Nollywood actresses, filmmakers and entrepreneurs. With a career spanning more than two decades, she has built a reputation as an actress, movie producer, businesswoman and social commentator.
Known for her roles in Yoruba and English-language films, Iyabo Ojo has remained one of Nollywood’s most influential personalities while successfully expanding into fashion, hospitality and beauty businesses.
Here’s everything to know about the actress.
Early Life and Education
Iyabo Ojo was born on December 21, 1977, in Lagos State, Nigeria, although she traces her roots to Abeokuta, Ogun State.
She attended National College, Gbagada, before studying Estate Management at Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH), now Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH).
Even while studying, she developed an interest in acting and theatre.
How Iyabo Ojo Started Acting
Iyabo Ojo joined the Nigerian movie industry in 1998 after becoming a member of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN).
She began with supporting roles before gradually establishing herself as one of Nollywood’s leading actresses.
Her breakthrough came through Yoruba-language films, but she later crossed into mainstream English-language productions, becoming popular with audiences across Nigeria and beyond.
Today, she has appeared in well over 150 films and produced several successful movies.
Popular Movies
Some of Iyabo Ojo’s best-known films include:
- Silence
- Black Val
- Arinzo
- Okunkun Biribiri
- Beyond Disability
- Baba Darijinwon
- Satanic
- Twisted
- Under Your Skin
- Labake Olododo
In addition to acting, she has produced several movies that have enjoyed commercial success in cinemas and on streaming platforms.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Iyabo Ojo has received multiple nominations and awards for her contributions to Nollywood.
She has been recognised for:
- Best Supporting Actress
- Best Indigenous Actress
- Movie Production
- Humanitarian work
- Fashion influence
She is also regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential female entertainers on social media.
Business Ventures
Outside acting, Iyabo Ojo is an entrepreneur with interests in several industries.
Her businesses include:
Fespris World
A lifestyle and beauty brand involved in fashion, cosmetics and wellness.
Fespris Lounge
A hospitality business that combines entertainment, dining and nightlife.
Movie Production
Iyabo has produced several Nollywood films through her own production company.
She has also worked as a brand ambassador for numerous Nigerian and international companies.
Family
Iyabo Ojo was previously married to Ademidun Ojo.
Although the marriage ended in divorce, the actress has often spoken publicly about lessons she learned from the experience.
She is the mother of two children:
- Priscilla Ojo, a fashion influencer, entrepreneur and social media personality.
- Festus Oladunjoye Ojo (Festus Jr.), who has largely maintained a private life.
Iyabo frequently shares family moments online and has spoken about raising her children as a single mother.
Relationship With Paul O
In 2022, Iyabo Ojo publicly confirmed her relationship with Nigerian music executive Paul Okoye, popularly known as Paul O.
The couple have since become one of Nigeria’s most talked-about celebrity pairs, regularly appearing together at events, vacations and movie premieres.
Speaking about their relationship, Iyabo has said it is built on:
- Respect
- Understanding
- Friendship
- Mutual support
- Personal space
She has repeatedly stated that maturity has been one of the keys to their relationship.
Activism and Public Advocacy
Beyond entertainment, Iyabo Ojo has become known for speaking out on social issues.
She has used her platform to advocate for:
- Justice for victims of abuse
- Women’s rights
- Child protection
- Better governance
- Youth empowerment
Her outspoken views have earned both praise and criticism, but she remains one of Nollywood’s most influential public voices.
Social Media Influence
Iyabo Ojo is among Nigeria’s most-followed actresses on Instagram and other social media platforms.
She regularly shares updates about:
- Her movies
- Family life
- Fashion
- Business ventures
- Travel
- Charity work
Her online presence has helped strengthen her brand and expand her influence beyond Nollywood.
Legacy
From actress to filmmaker, entrepreneur and advocate, Iyabo Ojo has built a career that extends far beyond the movie industry.
Her ability to remain relevant through changing trends, diversify her business interests and connect with millions of fans has made her one of the defining figures of modern Nollywood.
Whether through acting, business or public advocacy, Iyabo Ojo continues to shape conversations within Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
