Debbie Shokoya: Biography, Net Worth In Us Dollars And Career Highlights (2025)

If you’ve ever sat down to watch a Yoruba movie and found yourself clapping like a one-man audience because of a particular actress that delivered her role with the right dose of drama, attitude, emotion, and finesse—odds are, you were watching Debbie Shokoya. Yes oh! The same Debbie that always carries her roles on her head like gala in Lagos traffic. But beyond the screen, this babe is so much more. She’s a businesswoman, an influencer, and recently, one of the actresses giving Gen Z a run for their content-creating skills on TikTok.

So, sit down, grab a chilled drink (or zobo if you're in the mood), because we’re about to dive into the life of one of Nollywood’s most vibrant personalities. We’ll talk about her early life, how she entered the industry, what makes her different from others, her rise on TikTok, and of course, how much she's raking in. Spoiler alert: the girl is not broke at all!

Who is Debbie Shokoya? – The Beginning of a Star

Debbie Shokoya, born Deborah Ajijolajesu Shokoya, is a Nigerian actress, scriptwriter, filmmaker, and influencer, best known for her compelling roles in Yoruba-language films. And no, her acting isn’t one of those forced performances that make you want to scream “cut!” She brings energy, originality, and raw passion to the screen.

Born on July 19 (yes, she's a proud Cancer—soft on the inside, but don’t play with her emotions), Debbie hails from Ogun State, though she grew up in the bustling city of Lagos. This combo of Yoruba roots and Lagos upbringing means she's fluent in street sense and home training, a deadly combo in the entertainment industry.

Growing up, Debbie was that child who loved storytelling, dancing at every birthday party, and mimicking actors on TV. You know those kids that will scatter the house just to act a scene from Super Story? That was our Debbie. But guess what? That dramatic flair wasn’t just noise—it was destiny in motion.

She attended public schools in Lagos, and later went on to bag a degree in Public Administration from the Polytechnic of Ibadan. So yes, she’s not just beauty and talent—she sabi book too.

Her Journey into Nollywood – It Wasn’t Overnight, Abeg!

Debbie didn’t just wake up one morning and become a star. Her journey into the Yoruba movie industry started in 2012. That year, she joined the Odunlade Adekola Film Production (OAFP)—and if you know Odunlade, then you know she entered through the right doors.

She paid her dues, o! She played waka pass roles, held bags for senior actors, and even faced those moments where directors will say “you’re not ready” with a straight face. But Debbie didn’t give up. One of her breakout roles came in the Yoruba movie Aye Loja, where she played a role that made both fans and critics stop and ask: “Who is this girl again?”

From there, it was like God said, “My daughter, your time has come.” She went on to feature in several Yoruba blockbusters—movies like Agbede Meji, Oyenusi, Ayeloja, Ewatomi, Kadara, and Ijaya. With every role, she delivered powerful performances that made her a household name.

And let’s not lie, the way Debbie blends comedy, tradition, and emotion into her characters is simply elite. Whether she’s acting as the village champion, the loyal wife, the vengeful sister, or the streetwise girl from Mushin—you will believe every single line.

Her Personality On and Off Screen

You know how some celebs are so different on social media compared to how they act in movies? Debbie isn’t like that. What you see is what you get. She’s lively, outspoken, and has that “I don’t come to play” energy. But at the same time, she's soft-hearted and spiritual. She has openly spoken about her faith in God, her values, and her respect for elders in the industry.

Also, she’s not afraid to speak her mind. Whether it’s about societal issues, female empowerment, or the politics of Nollywood, Debbie always gives it to you straight, no filter. And that’s one of the reasons why her fans ride hard for her. She’s relatable, real, and knows how to switch from “sisi eko” to “omo Yoruba proper” in 0.5 seconds.

Debbie Shokoya and TikTok – From Actress to Content Queen

E choke! Because when Debbie said she was joining TikTok, some people were like, “Ah, this one is for Gen Z, go and face your movies!” But they didn’t know she had content in her bones.

Debbie jumped on TikTok like a natural. In fact, it was like the app was waiting for her. From lip-sync videos to skits, acting challenges, and comedy clips—Debbie brought her A-game. And the fans? They couldn’t get enough.

She has built a loyal following on the platform, not just because she’s a celeb, but because her content is genuinely entertaining. She’s not forming influencer. She gives us everyday Debbie, the one who dances to trends, acts out Yoruba movie scenes, and drops motivational talk when needed.

One thing that stands out is her ability to stay real. She doesn’t fake accents or try to be someone else to impress TikTokers. She's proudly Nigerian, proudly Yoruba, and she’s not trying to water that down for anyone.

Her TikTok videos have become a way for her to connect with younger fans who may not watch traditional Yoruba movies. And this strategy? E work! Because it has brought new followers to her brand and introduced Gen Z to the Yoruba movie industry in a fresh, digital way.

Awards, Nominations & Recognition

Over the years, Debbie has been recognized for her hard work. She has received several nominations for Best Supporting Actress and Most Promising Actress in various Yoruba movie awards. Even though she doesn’t carry award plaques everywhere like some people we know (you didn’t hear that from me), her fans know she deserves her flowers.

She’s also been celebrated by media houses and brands for her influence on youth, culture, and entertainment. Debbie represents that sweet balance between tradition and modern-day Nollywood.

Debbie Shokoya’s Net Worth in US Dollars

Let’s talk money, shall we?

As of 2025, Debbie Shokoya’s estimated net worth is hovering around $150,000 to $250,000. Now, before you shout “Is that all?”, remember that this is a woman who built her fortune from the ground up. She didn’t blow from dating one billionaire sugar daddy, abeg. This is pure hustle money—movie roles, brand endorsements, social media influencing, and her own production ventures.

She has worked with several brands across Nigeria, especially in beauty, fashion, and lifestyle. Her Instagram and TikTok pages alone are monetized platforms. Add that to acting fees, film production income, and content partnerships—you’ll understand why she’s living soft.

While she may not be on the Forbes list yet, the way she’s moving? She dey come.

Love Life, Controversies & Keeping It Real

You know Nigerians love gist, especially when it concerns celebrities and their relationship life. But Debbie doesn’t throw her personal affairs around like akara on the street.

Although she has been linked with a few rumors here and there (as expected in Nollywood), she has always handled them with maturity. She believes in privacy and doesn’t post every “I love you” or “Happy Birthday boo” moment on social media. She said in an interview that when the time is right, the world will know. For now, she’s focusing on building her empire. You’ve got to respect that.

As for controversies? Debbie is not one to chase clout. She minds her business and doesn’t enter drama unless drama enters her lane—and even at that, she handles it with poise. Unlike some people who will go live and start shouting, she drops one motivational post and keeps it moving.

Final Thoughts: Why Debbie Shokoya Is One to Watch

In an industry filled with noise and competition, Debbie Shokoya stands out as a woman of substance, resilience, and talent. She’s not just acting for the fame or the hype—she’s acting because she loves it, because storytelling runs in her blood.

From humble beginnings in Lagos to commanding attention on red carpets and dominating TikTok, Debbie has carved a lane for herself. And what’s most admirable? She hasn’t changed who she is. She still carries that Yoruba cultural pride, that sense of humor, that strong work ethic, and that faith in God.

She’s proof that you don’t need to conform or dim your light to rise in the industry. All you need is authenticity, consistency, and a little sprinkle of that Lagos hustle spirit.

So, the next time you see Debbie trending on TikTok or killing it in a movie, just know you’re looking at a queen who earned every bit of her success. And believe me, the best of Debbie Shokoya is still loading.