STEPHANIE OKEREKE: Nigerian Actress, Filmmaker ,Humanitarian,and Entrepreneur

Stephanie Okereke Linus

Stephanie Okereke Linus is a renowned Nigerian actress, filmmaker, and entrepreneur who has played a major role in elevating Nollywood to international standards. She was born on October 2, 1982, in Ngor Okpala, Imo State, Nigeria. As of 2026, Stephanie Okereke Linus is 43 years old.

Early Life and Education

Stephanie was born into a large family as one of eight children. Growing up in Imo State, she displayed intelligence, creativity, and confidence from a young age. Her passion for acting began early, and she often participated in school drama activities.

She attended the University of Calabar, where she studied English and Literary Studies. Her education helped refine her communication skills and storytelling abilities, which later became valuable assets in her acting and filmmaking career

Acting Career and Breakthrough

Stephanie Okereke began acting in 1997 when she competed in the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) pageant and emerged as the runner-up. The exposure opened doors for her in Nollywood.

Her big break came with movies like:

Compromise 2

Waterlo

Private Sin

Emotional Crack

Through the Glass

Games Men Play

Reloaded

Dry

Her performance in “Through the Glass” earned her an Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) nomination for Best Actress. Over time, she became known for playing intelligent, strong, and emotionally complex characters.

Stephanie has featured in over 100 movies and worked with top Nollywood actors and producers. Her acting style is often described as natural, graceful, and deeply expressive.

Filmmaking and International Recognition

Beyond acting, Stephanie Okereke Linus has made a strong mark as a filmmaker. In 2014, she produced and directed the movie “Dry”, a powerful film addressing child marriage and vesicovaginal fistula (VVF). The movie received international recognition and won several awards.

Her work on Dry established her not just as an actress but as a socially conscious filmmaker. She has also represented Nigeria at international film festivals and conferences.

Stephanie once trained at the New York Film Academy in the United States, further expanding her skills in directing and producing.

Awards and Achievements

Stephanie has won and received numerous nominations both locally and internationally. Some of her recognitions include:

Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) nominations

Best Actress awards at various Nigerian award platforms

National honors for her contribution to entertainment and advocacy

She is widely respected as one of Nollywood’s most influential female filmmakers.

Marriage Life

Stephanie Okereke married Linus Idahosa on April 21, 2012, in a grand ceremony held in Paris, France. The wedding attracted celebrities, politicians, and dignitaries from different parts of the world.

After marriage, she added her husband’s name and became known as Stephanie Okereke Linus.

Their marriage has been described as stable and supportive. In 2015, the couple welcomed their first child, a baby boy. Stephanie often speaks about balancing family life with her career and credits her husband for being supportive of her ambitions.

Despite being a public figure, she keeps much of her family life private and away from unnecessary media attention.

Advocacy and Humanitarian Work

Stephanie is also known for her advocacy against violence and harmful traditional practices affecting women and children. Through her foundation, she works to create awareness about gender-based violence and early marriage.

She has partnered with international organizations and Nigerian institutions to promote women’s health and empowerment.

Legacy and Influence

At 43 years old, Stephanie Okereke Linus remains one of Nollywood’s most respected figures. She has successfully transitioned from actress to producer, director, and advocate.

Her journey reflects intelligence, resilience, and purpose. From her early acting days to international recognition, she has consistently maintained class and professionalism.

Stephanie continues to inspire young actors, filmmakers, and women across Africa, proving that talent combined with education and vision can create lasting impact.