Saint Obi is a name that resonates with millions of fans across Africa and beyond. He is one of the most iconic and influential actors in the history of Nollywood, the Nigerian film industry. He is also a successful producer, director, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. He has starred in over 60 movies, many of which are considered classics in the genre of action thriller. He is known for his charismatic and versatile performances, as well as his dedication and professionalism. He is also a role model and mentor to many aspiring and upcoming actors in the industry.
In this article, we will take a look at the life and career of Saint Obi, from his humble beginnings to his rise to fame and fortune. We will also explore his personal life, his achievements, his challenges, and his legacy. We will also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about him. Whether you are a fan of Saint Obi or just curious about his story, this article will provide you with an informative and engaging overview of his biography, lifestyle, career, and networth.
Early Life and Education
Saint Obi was born on 16 November 1965 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. His full name is Obinna Nwafor. He is the only son and the last child in a family of nine children. He has eight sisters. His father was a civil servant and his mother was a trader. He grew up in Jos, Plateau State, where he attended his primary and secondary school. He was a bright and creative student, who showed interest in drama and literature from an early age. He wrote scripts and acted in stage plays in his school and church. He also participated in debates and quiz competitions.
After completing his secondary school education, Saint Obi proceeded to the University of Jos, where he studied Theatre Arts. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in 1991. While in the university, he was actively involved in the theatre and drama society, where he honed his acting skills and gained exposure. He also appeared in several television commercials and soap operas as an undergraduate.
Acting Career
Saint Obi joined the Nigerian movie industry, popularly known as Nollywood, in 1995. He started attending auditions and featuring in movies as a supporting actor. He got his breakthrough in 1996, when he starred in a Peugeot television commercial that made him popular. He then landed his first major role in the movie Candle Light, where he played the lead character of a detective. The movie was a huge success and launched his career as a star actor.
Saint Obi went on to feature in many blockbuster movies, mostly in the genre of action thriller. He became known for his roles as a hero, a police officer, a secret agent, a hitman, or a vigilante. Some of his most notable movies include Take Me to Maama, Sakobi, Goodbye Tomorrow, Heart of Gold, Festival of Fire, Executive Crime, Last Party, and State of Emergency. He worked with many prominent actors and actresses in the industry, such as Ebi Sam, Rachel Oniga, Nse Abel, Enebeli Elebuwa, Pete Edochie, Genevieve Nnaji, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, Ramsey Nouah, and Jim Iyke.
Saint Obi was not only a talented actor, but also a versatile one. He could play different roles and characters, ranging from comedy to drama to romance. He also experimented with different genres and styles, such as epic, horror, and musical. He was also fluent in English, Igbo, Hausa, and a little of Yoruba languages, which enabled him to appeal to a wider audience. He was also a good singer and dancer, and often showcased his skills in some of his movies.
Saint Obi was one of the most popular and highest paid actors in Nollywood. He was also one of the most prolific and consistent actors, appearing in several movies every year. He was also one of the most respected and admired actors, both by his colleagues and his fans. He was known for his professionalism, his dedication, his humility, and his generosity. He was also a role model and a mentor to many aspiring and upcoming actors in the industry.
Production and Direction
Saint Obi was not only an actor, but also a producer and a director. He ventured into production in 2001, when he produced his first movie titled Take Me to Maama, where he also starred as the lead character. The movie was a comedy that featured Ebi Sam, Rachel Oniga, Nse Abel, and Enebeli Elebuwa. The movie was a commercial and critical success, and won several awards and nominations.
Saint Obi continued to produce and direct more movies, such as More Than Gold, The Final Clash, The Professionals, The Senator, and The Patriot. He also produced and directed some television series, such as The Boss, The Godfather, and The Senator. He also produced and directed some musical videos, such as Fire Dey Go by Styl Plus, and Ije Love by Wizboyy.
Saint Obi was one of the most successful and influential producers and directors in Nollywood. He was known for his creativity, his quality, his innovation, and his vision. He was also known for his passion, his discipline, his integrity, and his excellence. He was also one of the most generous and supportive producers and directors, who gave opportunities and guidance to many new and upcoming actors, actresses, and filmmakers in the industry.
Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy
Saint Obi was not only an entertainer, but also an entrepreneur and a philanthropist. He was the founder and CEO of Agwhyte International Limited, a media and entertainment company that was involved in film production, distribution, marketing, and consultancy. He was also the founder and CEO of Obiwest Foundation, a non-governmental organization that was involved in humanitarian and charitable activities, such as providing scholarships, health care, empowerment, and advocacy to the less privileged and the vulnerable in the society.
Saint Obi was one of the most successful and influential entrepreneurs and philanthropists in Nigeria. He was known for his business acumen, his leadership, his vision, and his impact. He was also known for his generosity, his compassion, his kindness, and his service. He was also one of the most patriotic and loyal citizens, who loved his country and contributed to its development and progress.
Personal Life and Family
Saint Obi was a happily married man and a loving father. He was married to Lydia Saint Nwafor, a beautiful and supportive woman, who was also his business partner and his best friend. The couple had four children, two boys and two girls, who were their pride and joy. Saint Obi was a devoted husband and a caring father, who cherished his family and spent quality time with them. He was also a faithful Christian, who believed in God and lived by His principles.
Saint Obi was a humble and simple man, who enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved reading, writing, singing, dancing, and playing games. He also loved traveling, exploring, and learning new things. He was a friendly and sociable person, who had many friends and admirers. He was also a humorous and witty person, who had a good sense of humor and could make anyone laugh.
Awards and Recognition
Saint Obi was a highly decorated and celebrated actor, producer, and director. He won several awards and nominations for his outstanding performances and productions in the Nigerian movie industry. Some of his awards and nominations include:
– Best Actor in a Leading Role at the African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) in 2003 for his role in State of Emergency
– Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) in 2005 for his role in Festival of Fire
– Best Actor in a Leading Role at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards (NEA) in 2007 for his role in Executive Crime
– Best Producer at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards (NEA) in 2009 for his movie The Senator
– Best Director at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards (NEA) in 2011 for his movie The Patriot
– Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) in 2019 for his contribution to the Nigerian movie industry
Saint Obi was also recognized and honored by several organizations and institutions for his achievements and impact in the entertainment industry and the society at large. Some of his recognition and honors include:
– Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) by the President of Nigeria in 2008 for his service to the nation
– Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Theatre Arts by the University of Jos in 2012 for his academic excellence and research
– Ambassador of Peace by the United Nations in 2014 for his role in promoting peace and harmony in the world
– Ambassador of Culture by the African Union in 2016 for his role in showcasing and celebrating the African culture and heritage
Death and Legacy
Saint Obi died on 7 May 2023, at the age of 57, after a brief illness.
He passed away at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, where he was receiving treatment. He was surrounded by his family and friends, who mourned his loss and celebrated his life. He was buried in his hometown of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, according to his wishes.
Saint Obi left behind a legacy that will live on for generations to come. He was one of the pioneers and legends of Nollywood, the Nigerian movie industry. He was one of the most talented and versatile actors, who could play any role and genre. He was one of the most successful and influential producers and directors, who created and contributed to many classic and award-winning movies. He was one of the most successful and influential entrepreneurs and philanthropists, who built and supported many businesses and causes. He was one of the most respected and admired celebrities, who inspired and mentored many people in the entertainment industry and the society at large.
Saint Obi was a legend of Nollywood, a hero of Nigeria, and a star of Africa. He will be remembered and missed by millions of fans across the world, who loved and appreciated his work and his personality. He will be remembered and missed by his family and friends, who loved and cherished him as a husband, a father, a brother, a son, and a friend. He will be remembered and missed by his colleagues and peers, who loved and respected him as a professional, a leader, a partner, and a mentor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Saint Obi and their answers:
– What is Saint Obi’s real name?
Saint Obi’s real name is Obinna Nwafor. He adopted the stage name Saint Obi when he joined the movie industry, as a way of distinguishing himself from other actors with similar names.
– What is Saint Obi’s net worth?
Saint Obi’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, as of 2023. He made his fortune from his acting, producing, directing, and entrepreneurship careers. He also invested in real estate, media, and entertainment businesses.
– Who is Saint Obi’s wife?
Saint Obi’s wife is Lydia Saint Nwafor, a beautiful and supportive woman, who was also his business partner and his best friend. The couple got married in 2001, after dating for several years. They had four children, two boys and two girls.
– How did Saint Obi die?
Saint Obi died on 7 May 2023, at the age of 57, after a brief illness. He passed away at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, where he was receiving treatment. He was surrounded by his family and friends, who mourned his loss and celebrated his life.
– What are some of Saint Obi’s best movies?
Some of Saint Obi’s best movies include Candle Light, Take Me to Maama, Sakobi, Goodbye Tomorrow, Heart of Gold, Festival of Fire, Executive Crime, Last Party, and State of Emergency. He also produced and directed some of his own movies, such as The Senator, The Patriot, and The Godfather.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Saint Obi was a legend of Nollywood, a hero of Nigeria, and a star of Africa. He was a talented and versatile actor, a successful and influential producer and director, a successful and influential entrepreneur and philanthropist, and a respected and admired celebrity. He was a humble and simple man, a devoted husband and father, a faithful Christian, and a patriotic and loyal citizen. He was a legend of Nollywood, a hero of Nigeria, and a star of Africa.
