When it comes to portraying emotionally rich, authentic love stories, few Nollywood actors do it better than Efa Iwara. Whether he’s playing the charming Lagos bachelor or the quiet, supportive partner, Efa has made a name for himself as one of Nollywood’s most beloved romantic leads. Here are 10 of his most memorable love roles—each one offering something beautifully different.
1. The Men’s Club (Tayo)
Efa’s portrayal of Tayo in The Men’s Club defined a generation of Nollywood romance fans. As a successful, emotionally complex bachelor navigating love, betrayal, and personal growth, he gave us a lead we could root for—even when he messed up.
2. This Lady Called Life (Obinna)
As Obinna, Efa plays a man who sees beauty in Aiye, a single mother and aspiring chef. Their love story unfolds gently, showing how kindness and encouragement can heal the deepest wounds. It’s tender, inspiring, and unforgettable.
3. Seven (Kolade)
Seven may be a thriller, but Efa’s role adds heart. Kolade’s subtle romance offers a window into his vulnerability, giving audiences a rare soft moment in a fast-paced film.
4. Soft Love (Edward Obi)
In this recent Amazon Prime release, Efa stars as Edward, a Lagos-based photographer who falls in love with Zandi, a South African relationship coach. Their journey of emotional healing across borders is a quiet, breathtaking love story.
5. Reel Love (2025 Ensemble)
In this Valentine’s rom-com hit, Efa plays a romantic lead in a vibrant ensemble cast. Centered around dating in the digital age, his character brings calm charm and gentle humor, reflecting real-life modern love with authenticity.
6. Ajoche (Ene)
Set in ancient Nigeria, Efa’s character battles tradition and personal loyalty while falling in love with a woman from a rival tribe. The tension between love and duty makes this role rich and powerful.
7. Unbroken (Ohimai)
In this dramatic TV series, Ohimai is a man torn between family and love. Efa’s emotional performance highlights how complicated love can get when societal pressures and family legacy are involved.
8. Rumour Has It (Ranti)
Ranti is a romantic lead full of ambition, mystery, and a dash of emotional chaos. Efa makes us question whether love can survive ego and betrayal—and still keeps us watching to the end.
9. Isoken (Osaze – Supporting Role)
Though a smaller role, Efa appears as the kind of man every Nigerian parent wants for their daughter. In a film that critiques societal dating pressure, his presence helps reinforce the emotional stakes of choosing love over approval.
10. Finding Hubby (Pastor Godwin)
In this rom-com, Efa plays a charismatic pastor with a few hidden flaws. His role adds humor and insight to the modern dating experience, especially when faith and romance collide.
Efa Iwara has become a steady favorite in Nollywood’s romantic genre, not because he plays perfect men—but because he plays real ones. From the soft-spoken to the emotionally complicated, his characters reflect the many layers of modern love.
