Paul Obazele stands as a seasoned Nigerian actor, producer, director, and philanthropist, recognized as a steady presence in Nollywood from the 1990s onward. He previously led the Association of Movie Producers (AMP) and later headed the Edo Film Makers Association (EFMA). As the creator of the Legends of Nollywood Awards (LNA), he celebrates key contributors to Nollywood’s foundation and expansion. His extensive career features acting, production, and industry honors.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Paul Obazele |
| Date of Birth | N/S |
| Place of Birth | Lagos State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Edo State (Esan), Nigeria |
| Partner | Married (name not publicly disclosed) |
| Children | Yes |
| Occupations | Actor, Film Producer, Director, Philanthropist, Former AMP President, Founder of Legends of Nollywood Awards |
| Net Worth | $500,000-,$1.2 million |
Early Life and Education
Paul Obazele entered the world in Lagos State, Nigeria, from a family rooted in Esan, Edo State, in the nation’s South-South area. He ranks as the fifth child in his household. Though raised in Lagos, his heritage ties deeply to Esanland in Edo State.
He completed secondary school at Anglican Grammar School, Ubulu-Ukwu, now in Delta State, earning his West African Senior School Certificate. He then attended Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State for a degree in Business Administration.
His passion for acting and filmmaking sparked during his time at Auchi Polytechnic through theatre and production involvement.
Career
Paul Obazele faced strong parental resistance to his acting aspirations, prompting him to initially pause those dreams for a production company job. He persisted and entered Nollywood in 1994, debuting in a lead role in “Shadow of Death,” directed by Bolaji Dawodu. This role quickly positioned him as a prominent figure amid the home video boom.
By 1999, he shifted into directing while continuing to act, later adding production to his skills. Reports highlight his involvement in around 200 films, marking his substantial industry footprint.
Notable works include “Invasion 1897” (2013), a historical piece on the British Benin invasion; “Iyore” (2015), where he portrayed a royal figure; “The Legend of Inikpi” (2020); “Night Bus to Lagos” (2019); and earlier entries like “Living Dead” and “Political Control.”
He held presidency at the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), advancing production standards and producer rights. Later, he guided the Edo Film Makers Association (EFMA) to boost local filmmaking. Obazele advocates against piracy, distribution issues, and award biases, drawing from experiences like “Iyore’s” award setbacks.
Obazele has stepped into politics, running for Edo State governor in 2024 under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after prior ties to other parties. He views this pursuit as service extending from his creative and reform efforts.
Personal Life
Paul Obazele maintains privacy around family matters, confirming his marriage and fatherhood without public spouse or child details. He emphasizes family in profiles focused on his career.
His philanthropy targets film training for the physically challenged, collaborating with groups like Ecobank and the National Institute of Sports for workshops and projects.
Net Worth
Paul Obazele’s net worth is estimated between $500,000 and $1.5 million as of 2025. These figures arise from his decades-long career in Nollywood as an actor, producer, and director, alongside leadership roles in film associations and events like the Legends of Nollywood Awards.
Selected Filmography
Nollywood archives remain incomplete for early works, so key documented films include:
- “Shadow of Death” (1994) – Lead debut
- “Living Dead”
- “Political Control” (2006)
- “Invasion 1897” (2013)
- “Iyore” (2015) – Oba Izuwe/Oba
- “Night Bus to Lagos” (2019)
- “The Legend of Inikpi” (2020) – Oba Esigie
His total output exceeds these, per various film databases.
Awards and Nominations
Awards
- City People Movie Special Recognition Award – City People Entertainment Awards (2017), honoring his enduring Nollywood service.
His Legends of Nollywood Awards (LNA) platform recognizes pioneers like Jide Kosoko and Pete Edochie, amplifying his industry-building role.
Nominations
- Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) – Best Actor in a Supporting Role for “Iyore” (2015).
He contributes to nominated projects and offers candid views on awards from experience.
