John Okafor aka Mr Ibu Biography (Age, Career, Net Worth)

His notable film appearances include Mr. Ibu, Mental Case, A Fool at 40, London Fever, amongst others.

Early Life

John Okafor born on October 17, 1961 in Nkanu West, Enugu State, Nigeria, is said to be the eldest of eight children whose father was a farmer and mother, a trader.

The 62-year-old after elementary school in 1974, moved to Sapele to stay with his brother, after his father’s demise. There, he did menial jobs so he could see himself through school and support his family; he worked as a waiter, security guard, worked in a company that produces crates, ventured into photography and also worked as a hairstylist.

Okafor then gained admission into the College of Education, Yola, but pulled out due to financial difficulties, but later enrolled in the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu as soon as he was financially able to. There, he studied Mass Communication

Career

Although Mr Ibu joined the film industry in 1973 as one of the camera crew members working behind the scenes, he decided to pursue a career in acting In 1992.

He began by appearing in minor roles in Nollywood films. However, he did not achieve success until 2004, when he starred in the film Mr. Ibu.

The film which was a huge success, made Mr Ibu a household name in Nigeria. His effort in the movie also bagged him the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Comic Actor in Nigeria in 2005.

The Nollywood veteran has since starred in over 200 Nollywood films such as Husband Suppliers, International Players, Mr.Ibu in London, Police Recruit, 9 Wives, Ibu in Prison, Keziah, Mr Ibu and His Son, Coffin Producers, among others.

Being one of the most popular and successful comic actors in the country, his comedic roles often feature him playing characters who are clumsy, naive, or foolish. He is also known for his energetic and over-the-top acting style.

Mr Ibu also ventured into music, doing this for a short period of time in the early 2000s. His hit song “This Girl” was released in 2002 and “Don You Know” in 2004.

His awards and nominations include Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, Best Comic Actor in Nigeria – Africa Movie Academy Awards, and Best Actor in a Comedy – Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards.

Mr Ibu is also a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR)

Moreover, he is the founder of the Mr. Ibu Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides educational and vocational training to underprivileged youths.

Personal Life

Okafor is married and has three children from his marriage with his present wife, Stella Marris, but is said to have other children from his previous marriage.

Besides, he is a devout Christian and is also a successful businessman who owns a chain of restaurants and hotels in Nigeria.

In a sad turn of events, the veteran is currently hospitalized and is seeking financial aid from Nigerians to pay his medical fees. Mr. Ibu made a financial help request from his hospital bed on Wednesday, October 19, 2023.

It got so bad that he marked his birthday on his hospital bed. In the video posted to his Instagram page after his birthday, he disclosed he has been sick for several weeks and has been hospitalized, weakly stating that if he does not receive proper care, he risks having his leg amputated.

His wife and daughter who also appeared in the video, pleaded with Nigerians to keep them in their prayers and offer financial aid if needed. His daughter stated that she has been paying the actor’s bills for as long as he has been sick. She also stated that the family would want that he be sent out of the country for further treatment.

His colleagues and top personalities have since lent their voices, urging Nigerians to make donations.

Net Worth

Being one of the richest comic actors in Nigeria, his net worth is around $4.2 million.

Okafor continues to be a respected figure in Nigeria, known for his sense of humour, generosity, and commitment to helping others.