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By Tosin Ajirire
Prior to attaining stardom as an actress, Ngozi Ezeonu worked as a journalist at Radio Lagos and Eko FM respectively. An indigene of Ogbunike, Anambra State, Ezeonu was born to Dennis and Ezenwayi Ikpelue on May 23, 1965 in Owerri, Imo State.
Young Ngozi had her elementary and secondary school education in Owerri and thereafter secured a job as a hairstylist in a beauty salon in the city. She worked briefly before enrolling for a Diploma course in Journalism at Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Lagos.
Renowned for her stereotypical motherly figure, Ezeonu began her illustrious acting career in the 1990s playing younger character.
Having noticed her prodigious talent, veteran film producer/director, Zeb Ejiro in 1993 offered the thespian a supporting role as Nkechi, the antagonist’s bestie in Nollywood blockbuster, Nneka the Pretty Serpent.
In the following year, Ezeonu featured as Thelma, a high society lady in Glamour Girls.
Since then, she has waxed stronger, carving a place for herself in the industry, with cameo and lead appearances in more than 250 award-winning movies.
The actress’ most recent works include Nkasi My Flesh and Blood (2020), Prince Decision (2021), Augustina Beautiful (2021), Mama Iruoma When Love Beckons (2021), Mama Sochima Gone (2021), The Dreamers (2022), and Dirty Reflections (2022), among others.
Described as one of the best in her generation of movie stars, Ngozi Ezeonu is an inspiration and mentor to several up and coming actors, who look up to her for career success in Nollywood. The actress lives a scandal-free life.
In recognition of her contributions to Nollywood and the society at large, she was conferred with a chieftaincy title and also appointed an International Peace Ambassador.
In 2007, the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMVCA) honoured Ezeonu with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her outstanding achievements in the industry.
For her staying power and relevance even after more than three decades of role interpretation in Nigeria’s thriving movie industry, Ngozi Ezeonu is The Sun Nollywood Icon of the Year Award for 2023.
