Daniel Abua, is a versatile Nigerian entertainer excelling in Nollywood acting, modeling, and entrepreneurship. Born June 22, 1991, in Boki LGA, Cross River State, he embodies modern creative professionals who master multiple fields. His path from software development and pageantry to cinema and fashion, shows rare strategic diversification in Nigeria’s entertainment scene.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Ufeh Daniel Abua |
| Date of Birth | 22 June 1991 |
| Place of Birth | Boki LGA, Cross River State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Cross River State |
| Partner | Mercy Ebunuta Abua (m. 2018) |
| Children | 1 son – King Omari Abua |
| Occupations | Actor, Model, Software Developer, TV Host, Entrepreneur |
| Net Worth | $250,000 USD (approx. ₦200M NGN) |
Early Life and Education
Daniel grew up in a Christian family as the eldest of three children, with two younger sisters. Economic challenges shaped his early years, as his father worked as a bricklayer while his mother faced long-term physical limitations. These circumstances thrust responsibility upon him early, fostering resilience and determination.
After primary school, he shouldered family duties while pursuing education. This foundation of hard work became central to his personal narrative and drive for success.
Daniel earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Calabar. This technical background distinguishes him among actors and supports his parallel career in software development.
Career
Daniel entered entertainment by winning Mr. Tourism Nigeria 2016, representing Abuja. The victory opened doors to commercial modeling for brands like Dillion Gas, Cadbury Richoco, and Nurofen. He also appeared in Simi’s “So Bad” music video, building early visibility.
Transitioning to acting, Daniel featured in TV series like Riona and Ripples: The New Generation. Early films such as Ricordi, Detty Thirty, and Damage Done built his portfolio through varied supporting roles.
Key 2022 releases elevated his profile: Symphony, Passport alongside Mercy Johnson and Jim Iyke, and The Stand Up. Grind on Amazon Prime Video, where he plays Wole, marked his international reach across seasons.
Recent works maintain momentum with 2024-2025 titles like Insecure, Pieces of Love, Cursed Bonds, and Who to Marry. Annual output of 8-10 projects positions him among prolific Nollywood talents.
Daniel also hosts and judges on Dance Naija Dance and The Price Is Right Nigeria Model Search. As CEO of IzzyDhaniel Wears, he channels modeling experience into fashion entrepreneurship. Software development provides steady diversification.
Personal Life
Daniel married Mercy Ebunuta Abua on May 11, 2018, after a traditional, church, and court ceremony. Mercy works in marketing communications at Baeboo Republic, hailing from Edo State.
Their son, King Omari Abua, arrived on September 28, 2018. Family milestones feature prominently in his social media, emphasizing love and commitment.
The family resides in upscale Lekki, Lagos. Daniel often contrasts this with his humble beginnings, motivating his relentless work ethic to secure better opportunities for his child.
Net Worth
Daniel’s net worth stands at approximately $250,000 USD as of recent estimates. Acting leads income, boosted by streaming deals and theatrical releases. Modeling, hosting, software work, and his fashion brand contribute significantly.
High production volume and festival exposure suggest growth beyond this figure. Diversified streams ensure stability uncommon in single-focus careers.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Who to Marry | Lekan |
| 2025 | Cursed Bonds | – |
| 2024 | Pieces of Love | Alex |
| 2024 | Insecure | Jerry |
| 2024 | A Christmas Gift | – |
| 2023 | Grind Season 2 | Wole |
| 2022 | Passport | Ahmed |
| 2022 | Symphony | Sweet Sound |
Earlier credits include Grind (S1), May 27, Ricordi, and 30+ others across film and TV.
Awards and Nominations
Mr. Tourism Nigeria 2016 victory launched his career. Festival nods followed, including Best Supporting Actor Africa at Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival 2023 for Damage Done.
Grind Season 2 earned Best Series nomination at Septimius Awards 2025. May 27, his ensemble short, swept awards like Best Short Film African at TINFF 2022.
These honors reflect rising recognition through quality supporting work and strategic project choices.
