After spending more than a decade building a successful career in Nollywood, actor Joseph Momodu has embarked on a completely different journey by joining the United States Army.
The actor, born Abubakar Sadiq Momodu, recently completed his Basic Combat Training, marking a significant milestone following his relocation to the United States.
Momodu shared the achievement publicly, explaining that his decision was also a tribute to his late father, who served in the Nigeria Police Force.
A personal decision inspired by family
The Nollywood actor joins US Army story has attracted widespread attention, with many fans reacting to Momodu’s transition from film sets to military service.
Reflecting on his decision, Momodu revealed that honouring his late father played an important role in his enlistment.
His father dedicated years of service to the Nigeria Police Force, and the actor described joining the military as a meaningful way to continue a legacy of public service.
Before relocating to the United States, Momodu established himself as a familiar face in Nollywood. He featured in films including Coming to Nigeria, Play 2 Kill, and A Fool for Trust. Television audiences also recognised him for his performances in Tinsel, Soul Sisters, and The Johnsons.
Beyond acting, he gained wider popularity after appearing in Simi’s music video for “Joromi.” His physique also earned industry recognition, winning the Best Body Male award at the Africa Movie Academy Awards in both 2018 and 2019.
More Nollywood stars choosing military careers
Momodu’s enlistment continues a growing trend of Nigerian actors pursuing military careers in the United States after relocating abroad.
Actress Princess Chineke joined the US Army in December 2024 after moving to America. Announcing the milestone 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.”
Actress and producer Mayowa Dosu also revealed her enlistment around the same period, describing the move as a major turning point in her professional life.
In May 2025, Grace-Charis Bassey, formerly known as Belinda Effah, enlisted in the US Navy and later became a United States citizen after completing boot camp. Sharing her experience, she wrote:
“Nigeria raised me, America challenged me.”
Momodu’s decision is particularly significant because he is the first publicly confirmed male Nollywood actor to take this path after several Nigerian actresses joined the US Army and Navy over the past two years.
