Osita Iheme, MFR, widely known as “Pawpaw,” is a legendary Nollywood actor whose comedic timing and partnership with Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki) created a cultural phenomenon across Africa and the world. Beyond his “mischievous child” persona, he is a savvy businessman and a Nigerian national honor recipient.
Career Journey
Osita’s career has evolved from slapstick comedy to a multifaceted legacy in the arts and business:
Internet Icon (2019–Present): He gained a massive new generation of global fans when his old movie clips became viral memes and stickers on social media platforms like X (Twitter) and WhatsApp
Early Days (1998): He started his career in minor roles, often typecast as a child due to his physical stature (caused by a rare condition that affects his growth).
The Breakthrough (2002): The film Aki na Ukwa turned him and Chinedu Ikedieze into overnight superstars. Their chemistry as the duo “Aki and Pawpaw” defined an era of African comedy.
National Recognition: In 2011, he was conferred with the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) by the Nigerian government for his contributions to the film industry.
Osita Iheme Personal Profile, Age and Native Language
Full Name: Osita Ileanacho Iheme
Date of Birth: February 20, 1982 (Age: 43 as of early 2026)
Place of Birth: Mbaitoli, Imo State, Nigeria (born in Abia State)
Languages Spoken: Fluent in English, Igbo, and Nigerian Pidgin.
Osita Iheme Education
Nollywood actor Osita Iheme attended local high schooling in Abia State before earning a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Computer Science from Lagos State University (LASU).
Additionally, some sources indicate that he pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Institute of Management Technology (IMT), Ghaziabad, after his undergraduate studies. He also reportedly holds an honorary doctorate degree.
Osita Iheme Height and Weight
Nollywood actor Osita Iheme stands at a height of 4 feet 3 inches (133 cm) and has an approximate weight of 38 kg (83 lbs).
Osita Iheme Girlfriend, Wife and Children
Nollywood actor Osita Iheme is not married and has publicly stated he has no plans for marriage or children, preferring a peaceful single life. He has no wife or a secret fiancée.
Key points regarding his relationship status:
- Relationship Status: He has reportedly shared that he has never been in a relationship or even kissed a girl, focusing solely on his work and financial success.
- No Marriage Plans: Iheme has explicitly stated he is not interested in marriage, even at 43 years old, and simply wants to live his life and support his family and loved ones.
- No Children: He has no biological children of his own, considering his siblings’ children as his family.
- Reasons for being single: He has cited various reasons for his choice, including a focus on his career, the challenges of finding the “right person,” and a desire to avoid potential drama associated with modern relationships.
- Rumors Debunked: Previous rumors of a wedding in 2017 were false and actually related to his acting partner Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki), who is married. A photo of him holding a baby that sparked paternity rumors was a prop for a movie.
Osita Net Worth
His estimated net worth is between $3 Million – $5 Million. He is one of the wealthiest actors in Nigeria, with diversified income streams:
- NGO: He founded Inspired Movement Africa, an organization aimed at empowering and mentoring young Nigerians.
- Hospitality: He owns a luxury hotel in Owerri, Imo State, called “The Resident.”
- Real Estate: He has significant property investments in Lagos and Enugu.
- Ambassadorships: He is a brand ambassador for various companies, including TAJBank.
Osita Iheme Movies and Series
He has starred in over 200 films. Notable works include:
- Billionaire Boys (2025)
- Aki na Ukwa (2002) – Pawpaw
- 2 Rats (2003)
- Baby Police (2003)
- The Mirror Boy (2011) – Mirror Boy (A more serious, mystical role)
- Aki and Pawpaw (2021) – Remake/Sequel
- Christmas in Miami (2021)
- The Black Book (2023)
- Gods of My Father (2025)
Osita Iheme Socials
Osita maintains an active presence on social media.
Instagram: @ositaiheme
Facebook: ositaiheme
X (formerly twitter) : ositaiheme
Welcome! I’m John Boza, founder and editor of Famous Starz. As a journalist with over ten years of experience covering entertainment and culture, I’ve witnessed the remarkable evolution of Nollywood from a regional phenomenon to a global powerhouse.
My decade-long journey in journalism has given me a deep appreciation for authentic storytelling and accurate reporting. This passion led me to create Famous Starz – a platform dedicated to celebrating African entertainment excellence through comprehensive, well-researched celebrity biographies.
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