Actress Grace Bassey Quits Nollywood, Joins U.S. Navy And Gains Citizenship

Grace Charis Bassey, has transitioned from acting in Nollywood to serving in the U.S. Navy.

The 33-year-old actress announced her completion of U.S. Navy boot camp on Instagram.

She is now a citizen of the United States.

Grace Charis Bassey, formerly known in Nollywood as Belinda Effah, has shared the inspiring news of her transition from acting in Nigeria’s film industry to serving in the U.S. Navy.

The 33-year-old actress took to Instagram to announce that she has officially completed her U.S. Navy boot camp and is now a citizen of the United States. She posted a photo in her Navy uniform, expressing heartfelt appreciation to God, her family, and her supporters, acknowledging the tough road it took to get there.

In her words:

“Last week, I graduated from U.S. Navy boot camp as a Sailor and took the oath as a citizen of the United States. Nigeria raised me. America challenged me. I stand today stronger and more determined than ever. Thank you to everyone who believed in me. This is just the beginning. In Honor of my Late Father – Naval CDR Asido Bassey Effah.”

Her update sparked strong reactions online, particularly from fans who remember her name change in 2021 from Belinda to Grace. In a previous interview with The PUNCH, Grace explained that the name change followed a spiritual awakening during which she felt God gave her a new name.

She said:

“Belinda literally means ‘beautiful serpent.’”

She further explained:

“God changed my name to Grace after a divine encounter.”

According to her, the name change was part of a rebranding process aimed at aligning with a greater calling. Despite adopting a new name, she reassured her followers that her values and core identity remain firmly rooted.

See her post here:

See some comments below:

@rockthecarpetwithusenika gushed:“Dang girl! No wonder you went off the grid! Been worried about you but look at what you went and did, @gracecharisbassey. I’M SO FREAKING PROUD OF YOU!”

@vanessateemsma:“My goddess, my QUEEN!! My very best friend! It is an honor to stand beside you in this moment. God did it but you were his vessel and will continue to do his work. Amen 🙏”

@uss.austin_agida:“Wow Congratulations Grace and welcome to the Fleet. You made my childhood incredibly interesting watching you on screen and now you are here doing more and more great things. Congratulations and let’s do it!!!”

@litechventures:“Big shoutout sist ,Nigerian bloggers won’t see this massive achievement.”

@sylveterpeterson:“Sharp. I’m so overwhelmed and proud of you. Your Grace is really at work. Glory be to God. A big congrats to you Charis 🫡”

@dontomworldwide simply:“Congratulations my dear, you have made yourself and us proud.”