“Nothing Wey He Never Act”: Ruger Hails Osita Iheme as Fans Renew Calls for Nollywood’s Most Versatile Star to Go Global

Nigerian singer Ruger has sparked fresh conversations around talent, longevity, and global potential in Nollywood after publicly celebrating veteran actor Osita Iheme for his unmatched versatility on screen. The singer, popularly known as BlownBoy RU O, took to social media with a humorous but pointed statement that quickly caught the attention of fans and entertainment blogs alike, declaring that he needed Osita Iheme, fondly called Paw Paw, to be the next John Wick or James Bond because, in his words, “nothing wey my never act or no fit act.”

The post, shared and amplified by popular entertainment platform YabaLeftOnline, struck a chord with Nigerians who have watched Osita Iheme evolve from a comic relief character into one of the most adaptable and respected actors in Africa’s film industry. What may have started as a lighthearted comment from Ruger soon turned into a wider appreciation of Iheme’s career, with many fans agreeing that few actors in Nollywood can boast the range, consistency, and cultural impact that Paw Paw has built over more than two decades.

Osita Iheme first rose to stardom in the early 2000s alongside Chinedu Ikedieze, forming one of Nollywood’s most iconic duos. Their performances in films like Aki na Ukwa became instant classics, embedding their characters into Nigerian pop culture and making their catchphrases part of everyday language. At the time, many critics and viewers assumed Iheme would remain boxed into comedic, childlike roles, but his career trajectory proved otherwise. Over the years, he deliberately expanded his repertoire, taking on serious roles that showcased emotional depth, moral conflict, and dramatic intensity.

Ruger’s comment taps into this long-standing admiration for Iheme’s ability to transform convincingly across genres. From comedy to drama, from street-smart hustlers to polished professionals, from village settings to urban crime thrillers, Iheme has shown a willingness to stretch himself creatively. This versatility is what many fans believe makes him suitable for any role, even hypothetical action-packed franchises like John Wick or James Bond, which Ruger referenced jokingly but symbolically.

In the Nigerian entertainment ecosystem, it is not uncommon for musicians to publicly praise actors, but Ruger’s statement stood out because it captured a sentiment many Nigerians already share. Social media reactions poured in shortly after the post went viral, with users listing the wide range of characters Iheme has portrayed over the years. Some recalled his later performances in more mature roles, where he played authoritative figures, troubled adults, or morally complex characters, far removed from the mischievous Paw Paw persona that first made him famous.

The renewed attention also highlights a broader conversation about Nollywood’s global potential and the actors who could represent the industry on an international stage. As Nigerian films continue to gain visibility on global streaming platforms, there is growing interest in seeing veteran actors like Iheme receive opportunities beyond local productions. Ruger’s comment, though playful, aligns with a deeper desire among fans to see Nollywood talent break into big-budget international cinema without losing their cultural identity.

Osita Iheme’s career is often cited as an example of reinvention done right. Unlike many childlike or comic actors who struggle to transition into serious roles, he made intentional choices to study, grow, and refine his craft. He pursued formal education in acting and remained selective about roles that allowed him to evolve. This discipline has earned him respect not just from fans, but also from colleagues within the industry who regard him as a professional with a deep understanding of storytelling.

Ruger’s praise also reflects how younger generations of Nigerian creatives view industry veterans. As a musician known for his bold persona and contemporary sound, Ruger represents a new wave of Nigerian pop culture. His acknowledgment of Iheme bridges generational gaps, showing that respect for foundational figures in Nollywood remains strong among today’s stars. It underscores how actors like Iheme laid the groundwork for the global interest Nigerian entertainment now enjoys.

Entertainment analysts note that moments like this are significant because they keep conversations about legacy alive in an industry that often prioritizes new trends and viral sensations. By spotlighting Osita Iheme’s versatility, Ruger inadvertently reminded audiences that true star power is built over time, through consistency, adaptability, and a willingness to grow beyond initial success.

The John Wick and James Bond references, while humorous, also reveal Nigerians’ growing confidence in their own talent. There was a time when imagining a Nollywood actor in such globally recognized roles might have felt unrealistic. Today, with Nigerian actors appearing in international series and films, such conversations no longer seem far-fetched. Fans online even took Ruger’s comment further, suggesting specific genres they would love to see Iheme explore more deeply, including action thrillers, psychological dramas, and international collaborations.

As the buzz continues, Osita Iheme himself has yet to respond publicly to Ruger’s shoutout, but the wave of appreciation speaks volumes. In an industry often criticized for sidelining veteran actors, moments like this reaffirm their relevance and remind audiences of the depth of talent within Nollywood. For many Nigerians, Iheme is not just a nostalgic figure from childhood movies, but a living testament to growth, resilience, and artistic range.

Ruger’s simple statement may fade from social media timelines in a matter of days, but the conversation it reignited is likely to linger. It has once again placed Osita Iheme in the spotlight, not just as Paw Paw, but as a versatile actor whose body of work continues to command respect. In celebrating him, Ruger echoed what many fans have believed for years: that there is little Osita Iheme cannot act, and perhaps the only limits left are the opportunities yet to come.