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Photo collage of Princess Chineke, Mayowa Dosu, and Grace-Charis Bassey
Nigerians are renowned for seeking better career opportunities abroad, and celebrities are no exception, often transitioning to new paths for improved prospects.
Below is a list of Nigerian celebrities who have publicly announced their enlistment in the US military, showcasing their career shifts from entertainment to military service.
1. Princess Chineke: The former beauty queen and actress relocated to the United States for better opportunities and joined the US Army in 2024. Known for roles in films like To Love a Sister, Stormy Hearts, and Masters at War, Chineke expressed her patriotism and gratitude toward her adopted country.
On Instagram, she wrote: “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.”
2. Mayowa Dosu: The actress and producer recently joined the US Army, marking a significant career change. With a filmography including Fears (2005), Mamami, Mojere, Compromise, Pawon Strippers, Lastlaugh, and Valentino, Dosu announced her enlistment on Instagram, stating: “I am an American Soldier, I am warrior and a member of a team, I serve the people of the United States and live the army values…..! Oops!! What a journey. Who miss me ?? Sorry I was busy being an American soldier.”
3. Grace-Charis Bassey: Grace-Charis Bassey, previously known as Belinda Effah, is the latest Nigerian celebrity to enlist in the US Navy, a move that also earned her US citizenship. A prominent Nollywood actress who debuted in the 2005 TV series Shallow Waters and won the ‘Most Promising Act of the Year’ at the 9th Africa Movie Academy Awards, she shared her milestone on Instagram.
She posted: “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. I stand today stronger and more determined than ever.” Bassey dedicated this achievement to her late father, Naval Commander Asido Bassey Effah. (The Nation: Text, Excluding Headline)
