Any discussion about the comedy genre in the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood would be considered incomplete without the mention of the name Chinedu Ikedieze, better known as “Aki”. This pint-sized dynamo has been lighting up the screen with his genius for over two decades, leaving audiences rolling in the aisles and clutching their sides in laughter.
But Aki’s impact on the Nigerian movie industry goes far beyond his on-screen antics. Alongside his partner-in-crime, Osita Iheme (better known as “Pawpaw”), Aki has revolutionised Nollywood’s approach to comedy, elevating it to new heights and capturing the hearts of a generation of movie-goers. From their unforgettable performances in Aki na Ukwa to their iconic roles in Tom and Jerry and 2 Rats, Aki and Pawpaw’s comedic chemistry is simply unmatched. They have become household names, not just in Nigeria, but across Africa and beyond, with their films becoming beloved classics and cultural touchstones.
So, join me as we take a trip down memory lane and celebrate the incomparable talent and impact of one of Nigeria’s greatest movie comics – Chinedu “Aki” Ikedieze.
Table of Content hide 1Chinedu Ikedieze biography 2Chinedu Ikedieze career 3Awards and recognition 4Chinedu Ikedieze movies 5Chinedu Ikedieze’s net worth 6Chinedu Ikedieze family 7How old is Chinedu Ikedieze?Chinedu Ikedieze biography
Chinedu Ikedieze, popularly known as “Aki”, was born on December 12, 1977, in Bende, Abia State, Nigeria, to the family of Michael Ogbonna Ikedieze.
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Ikedeze received his basic and secondary education in Aba, Abia State, and then attended the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) in Enugu, where he studied mass communication. However, his passion for acting led him to enrol in a two-year course at the New York Film Academy in the United States, in 2004 where he honed his skills as an actor.
Chinedu Ikedieze career
Chinedu Ikedieze’s career in the entertainment industry began in 1998 when the actor was featured in a minor role in the movie Evil Men. However, his breakthrough came in 2002, when he starred in the movie Aki na Ukwa, alongside his long-time friend and colleague, Osita Iheme, who is popularly known as “Pawpaw”. The film was a huge success, earned them widespread acclaim and established them as a force to be reckoned with in. They went on to star in over 50 films together, including Tom and Jerry, 2 Rats, and Boys from Holland.
He has appeared in numerous other Nollywood movies, both as a lead actor and in supporting roles. He has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Genevieve Nnaji, Ramsey Nouah, and Jim Iyke. Some of his notable projects include Spanner, One Good Turn, and Games Men Play.
In addition to his work as an actor, Ikedieze has also ventured into production, working as a producer or co-producer for a few Nollywood movies. He also ventured into television, scoring a recurring role in the Africa Magic family drama series, The Johnsons.
Ikedieze is also an established businessman involved in real estate investment, the miniature actor is said to own several properties across Nigeria.
Despite his success, Ikedieze remains humble and dedicated to his craft. He is known for his professionalism on set and his commitment to delivering quality performances. His impact on the Nigerian movie industry, especially in the comedy genre, cannot be overstated, and he continues to inspire and entertain audiences both in Nigeria and beyond.
Awards and recognition
Aki’s talent and hard work have not gone unnoticed, as he has received numerous awards and nominations throughout his career.
In 2007, he won the Lifetime Achievement Award at the African Movie Academy Awards. He has also been nominated for several other awards, including the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the Nigerian Entertainment Awards.
He was also awarded the Order of the Federal Republic by former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan in recognition of his services to Nollywood and the country’s economic progress.
In 2018, he was honoured as a distinguished visitor to Miami, Florida, in the United States of America. Speaking at the recognition ceremony, he said: “From the bottom of my heart, I appreciate Miami-Dade, the country office of the Mayor, and the county commissioners for honouring me as a distinguished visitor to the city of Miami, Florida. You have just given me a key to more success in life.”
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Chinedu Ikedieze movies
Chinedu Ikedeze has since appeared in over 150 movies and a couple of television shows throughout his career. They include:
- Spanner
- Okwu na uka
- Aka Gum
- The Tom and Jerry
- The Catechist
- Show Bobo: The American Boys
- School dropout
- Pipiro
- Onunaeyi: Seeds of Bondage
- Lagos Boys
- Family Crisis
- Charge & Bail
- Back From America
- Akpu-Nku
- Am in love
- Aki na ukwa
- Spanner Goes to Jail
- Not by height
- 2 Rat
- Igbo made
- Big Daddies
- Across the Niger
- Village boys
- Spoiler
- Secret Adventure
- Reggae boys
- One good turn
- I think twice
- Final World Cup
- Colours of Emotion
- Young Masters
- Winning Your Love
- U’ General
- Sweet money
- Royal Messengers
- Magic Cap
- Last challenge
- Kadura
- Jadon
- Games men play
- Criminal Law
- Brain Masters
- BrainBox
- Boys From Holland
- Blessed Son
- Thunder Storm
- Stubborn Flies
- Spirit of a Prophet
- Powerful Civilian
- Power as of old
- Escape to Destiny
- Cain and Abel
Chinedu Ikedieze’s net worth
Chinedu Ikedieze has made a lot of money over the years. He earns money from being an actor, producer, and director. Aside from movies, Ikedieze is also an established businessman who owns several establishments and properties in the country.
Though the facts have yet to be confirmed by the actor’s camp, however, as of the time of this writing, Chinedu Ikedieze’s net worth is estimated to be around N30 million, according to various reports.
Chinedu Ikedieze family
Chinedu Ikedieze is the third child in a family of five children. His parents are Mr and Mrs Michael Ikedieze Ogbonna. His father was a schoolteacher and his mother was a nurse. “Aki” grew up in Abia State and attended his primary and secondary education there.
He is said to have siblings including brothers and sisters. They all grew up together in a close-knit family, and “Aki” has spoken fondly of his childhood and the support he received from his family.
In 2011, “Aki” got married to his long-time girlfriend, Nneoma Nwaijah. The couple allegedly met on the set of a movie in Lagos, where Nneoma Ikedieze was the costume designer. Working together started some camaraderie, which then grew into intimacy. Their traditional wedding took place on November 26, 2011, in his wife’s hometown of Isala Mbano, Imo State. The couple had a grand wedding ceremony that was attended by many celebrities including the former governor of Abia state, Theodore Ahamefule Orji. His longtime acting partner and close pal, Osita Iheme served as the best man at his wedding.
Chinedu Ikedieze and his wife welcomed their first child, a son, in 2012. They have since kept their family life private, and not much is known about their personal life or other kids. Despite being a celebrity, Ikedieze remains grounded and deeply connected to his family.
He has credited his success to the support and encouragement he has received from his family over the years.
How old is Chinedu Ikedieze?
The beloved movie superstar was born in 1977, meaning that he is 45 years old currently.
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