Gregory Ojefua, also known as Greg “Teddy Bear” Ojefua, is a versatile Nigerian actor, voice-over artist, producer, and casting director. Renowned for his ability to portray a wide range of characters across stage, screen, and voice acting, he is notably the only actor to have played the legendary African warlord Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu twice in film.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Gregory Ojefua |
| Date of Birth | July 3 (year not publicly specified) |
| Place of Birth | Lagos, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Edo State (Igueben) |
| Partner | Single / Not publicly disclosed |
| Children | None publicly known |
| Occupations | Actor, Voice Actor, Film Producer, Compere, Casting Director, Translator |
| Net Worth | Estimated between $150,000 and $700,000 USD |
Early Life and Education
Gregory Ojefua was born in Lagos, Nigeria, though his family roots trace back to Igueben in Edo State.
From an early age, he demonstrated a passion for literature and performance, reciting Shakespearean works like Julius Caesar and Macbeth by the age of eight. This early interest was nurtured by his mother, an English and literature teacher.
He attended St. Paul’s Minor Seminary in Benin City, Iponri Estate High School in Surulere, and Rolex Comprehensive College in Iba.
Initially pursuing accountancy at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) between 2000 and 2005, he discontinued his studies following the death of his father.
Later, he resumed his education at Adekunle Ajasin University in Ondo State, earning a degree in Business Management and Administration from 2009 to 2013.
Additionally, he completed an online Information Technology course through the National Institute of Accounting Technicians.
His nickname “Teddy Bear” is a tribute to his mother, who affectionately called him “Super Ted” during his childhood. He adapted this moniker as his professional brand in the entertainment industry.
Career
Gregory Ojefua’s entry into the entertainment world was unconventional. In 2009, he gained public attention as a contestant on the TV show “Don’t Forget the Lyrics,” where he famously attempted the million naira question but narrowly missed winning.
This exposure helped him secure his first acting role in the television series “Winds of Change,” directed by Kalu Anya.
His career breakthrough came with his portrayal of General Odumegwu Ojukwu in the short film “The Encounter,” a role that required in-depth research and a nuanced performance.
This portrayal earned him critical acclaim and a nomination for Best Actor in a Drama at the 2017 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
Since then, Ojefua has appeared in numerous films and television series such as “A Tribe Called Judah,” “Black Harvest,” “This is Lagos,” “The Arbitration,” “It’s Her Day,” “Surulere,” “Tinsel,” and many others.
His distinctive voice has also been featured in animations like “Jay Jay: The Chosen One,” “Emeka’s Money,” and “Halima’s Vote,” as well as various commercial advertisements.
In addition to acting, he has built a successful career in commercial modeling, featuring in campaigns for brands like LG, Stanbic IBTC, OLX, MTN, Nigerite, and Oleum Oil.
Ojefua is also a sought-after event host, voice-over artist, and translator fluent in English, Nigerian Pidgin, Esan, and Yoruba.
Personal Life
Gregory Ojefua is the only son among several sisters and shared a close bond with his late father, Sir Tony Ojefua. His mother continues to play a significant role in his life.
He is currently single and maintains privacy regarding his romantic relationships, with no public information about children.
Ojefua attributes his distinctiveness in the entertainment industry to his deep voice, large stature (standing 5’11”), easy-going personality, and playful spirit.
Gregory Ojefua Net Worth
Estimates place Gregory Ojefua’s net worth between $150,000 and $700,000, with some sources approximating around $200,000.
His earnings come from acting, voice-over work, commercial endorsements, event hosting, and production activities. Details about his assets or investments remain private.
Filmography
Gregory Ojefua has an extensive body of work spanning over a decade. Some of his notable projects include:
Recent Films and TV Shows (2020-2025)
- A Tribe Called Judah (2023) as Pluto
- Kill Boro (2024) as Bossman
- The Trade (2023) as Ebuka
- Small Talk (2023)
- Penance (2025) as Festus
- Everything Light Touches (2025) as Officer
- The Waiter (2024) as Agent Soji
- Pink Butterfly (2024)
Earlier Works (2014-2019)
- Up Creek Without a Paddle (2014) as Asari Dokubo
- The Encounter (2015) as General Emeka
- It’s Her Day (2016) as Omonigho
- The Arbitration (2016) as Chijioke Utah
- Surulere (2016) as Brume
- The Women (2017) as Chubi Enweuzo
- Gold Statue (2019) as Rambo
- Oloture (2019) as Sami
Television
- Tinsel (ongoing)
- The Smart Money Woman (2020-2024) as Landlord
- Blood Sisters (2022) as Large Priest
- Life and Dirt (2024) as Native Doctor
Awards and Recognitions
Gregory Ojefua has earned multiple awards and nominations, highlighting his talent and contribution to Nigerian cinema:
Awards Won
- Best Supporting Actor, Eko International Film Festival (2016)
- Fast Rising Model Actor, Nigerian Models & Achievers Awards (2016)
- Best Actor (English), Maya Awards Africa (2017)
- Best Actor, Lake City Film Festival (2017)
- Best Actor in a Feature, Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) (2023)
- Best Actor, NEMCEA Awards (2024) for Road Trip
Notable Nominations
- Best Actor in a Drama, Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) (2017) for The Encounter
- Best Supporting Actor, AMVCA (2024) for This is Lagos
- Best Supporting Actor, Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) (2017)
- Best New Actor of the Year (English), City People Movie Awards (2017)
- Best New Actor, West African Citizens Awards (2017)
- Big Discovery of the Year, Ghana-Naija Showbiz Awards (2017)
Industry Rankings
- Ranked #3 on Jara TV’s Fast Rising Actors (2016)
- Ranked #3 on Charles Novia’s Top 5 Actors (2016)
- Ranked #2 on PulseNG’s Best Actors of the Year (2016)
Gregory Ojefua’s evolution from a game show contestant to a prominent figure in Nollywood exemplifies his dedication and adaptability. His compelling portrayals, especially of historical figures, have earned him a lasting place in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
