Full list of Nigerian celebrities who have joined US army

A notable trend has emerged with an increasing number of Nigerian celebrities trading the glitz of the entertainment industry for the discipline of military service in the United States. Actors, actresses, and former beauty queens have publicly announced their enlistment in recent years, a phenomenon that has become particularly noticeable since 2024.

This career shift is reportedly driven by a combination of factors, including the pursuit of personal fulfillment, a sense of patriotism, the promise of financial security, and the broader opportunities offered by military service. The latest to join this growing list is Nollywood actor Joseph Momodu, who completed his U.S. Army Basic Combat Training in April 2026.

Among the prominent figures is Grace Charis Bassey, formerly known as Belinda Effah. She graduated from the United States Navy boot camp in 2025, an achievement that also earned her U.S. citizenship. Bassey shared her milestone on social media, expressing gratitude and dedicating her success to her late father, Naval Commander Asido Bassey Effah. "Last week, I graduated from U.S. Navy boot camp as a Sailor and took the oath as a citizen of the United States. Nigeria raised me, America challenged me, and I stand today stronger and more determined than ever," she stated.

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Last week, I graduated from U.S. Navy boot camp as a Sailor and took the oath as a citizen of the United States. Nigeria raised me, America challenged me, and I stand today stronger and more determined than ever.

Joseph Momodu is recognized as the first known male Nollywood actor to publicly announce his enlistment in the U.S. Army after completing his Basic Combat Training. His decision was inspired by his late father's service in the Nigeria Police Force, viewing his military career as a tribute to his father's legacy. Prior to his enlistment, Momodu appeared in various Nollywood films and television series.

Former beauty queen and actress Princess Chineke also joined the U.S. Army after relocating to the United States. She explained that her military service is her way of serving her adopted country. "I'm an American soldier. I'm a member of a team. We are the Army and proud of our name. I answered the call of service to my country, to serve the people of the United States of America. This I will defend, so help me God. God bless America," Chineke declared. Actress and producer Mayowa Dosu is another celebrity who has transitioned from Nollywood to military service.

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I'm an American soldier. I'm a member of a team. We are the Army and proud of our name. I answered the call of service to my country, to serve the people of the United States of America. This I will defend, so help me God. God bless America.