Motherhood is a life-changing journey that demands both time and emotional strength. It’s a major responsibility even for fully prepared adults — let alone teenagers still finding their place in the world. Yet, several Nigerian actresses became mothers in their teens and still rose to success, balancing early parenthood with their careers in the spotlight. Here are twelve who took on motherhood before age 20.
1. Regina Daniels (Became a mother at 19)
Regina Daniels welcomed her first child (Munir) on June 29, 2020, at age 19. The actress married businessman and politician Ned Nwoko in 2019. 
Since then, the couple has had two sons together, and Regina has continued to grow her career.
2. Eniola Ajao (Became a mother at 20)
In 2022, Yoruba actress Eniola Ajao surprised many by revealing that her son, Ayomide had turned 20.
She explained that she kept his existence private due to fear of stigma. Now, she proudly celebrates him online, often featuring him in her content and film promotions.
3. Genevieve Nnaji (Reportedly became a mother at 17)
Though she has rarely spoken about it publicly, Genevieve is said to have had her daughter (Theodora Chimebuka)while still in her teens. 
She chose to keep her personal life private while focusing on building a successful acting career.
4. Liz Benson (Became a mother at 17)
The iconic actress became a mother at 17 after marrying her first husband, Samuel Gabriel Etim. 
The marriage, which ended with his passing in her twenties, produced three children.
5. Lizzy Anjorin
While the exact age remains unconfirmed, Lizzy Anjorin is known to have had her first child early in life. 
She kept her daughter, Rotimi, away from public attention until 2011. The actress revealed Rotimi is 24 years older than her second child, suggesting she gave birth quite young.
6. Hilda Dokubo (Became a mother at 16)
Veteran actress Hilda Dokubo has spoken candidly about becoming a mother at just 16. 
After losing her father at age 9, she fell in with the wrong crowd. Her early experiences, though challenging, shaped her advocacy and voice in the industry.
7. Waje (Became a mother at 17)
Singer cum actress Aituaje Iruobe, popularly known as Waje, had her daughter Emerald on March 28, 1999, at the age of 17.
Despite the early start, she built a successful music career and is celebrated for her powerhouse vocals.
8. Omotola Jalade Ekeinde (Became a mother at 19)
Omotola met her husband, a pilot, at 16 and married him at 18. 
She gave birth to her first child, Princess at 19, all while beginning her rise to stardom. Today, she’s one of the most respected names in Nollywood.
9. Shan George (Became a mother at 16)
Shan George got married at 16 and had her two sons (Delnoi and Jaga) shortly after. 
Though now divorced, she has spoken about how early marriage felt more like a duty than a choice. Her boys have since grown into young men.
10. Ireti Doyle (Became a mother at 17)
Actress Ireti Doyle became a mother at 17, long before her marriage and subsequent divorce to actor Patrick Doyle.
Her daughter, Abimbola Ozofor, has since grown up as Ireti built a respected reputation in film and television.
11. Clarion Chukwurah (Became a mother at 18)
Clarion became pregnant at 18 by then-boyfriend and musician Sir Shina Peters.
Their son, Clarence Peters, has since become one of Nigeria’s top music video directors.
12. Tayo Odueke (Teenage mother)
Yoruba actress Tayo Odueke, popularly known as Sikiratu Sindodo, had her daughter as a teenager. 
Though details are limited, she has openly embraced motherhood and her daughter, who is now an adult.
Young Mothers, Strong Voices
They were barely adults — but life had bigger plans. These women show that early motherhood doesn’t define or derail success. From personal struggles to career triumphs, their stories reflect strength, resilience, and the reality that no single path leads to fulfillment. They are proof that with determination, even a rocky start can lead to a powerful legacy.
