Efa Iwara, born on 20 August 1986 in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, is a celebrated Nigerian actor and rapper, adeptly blending Nollywood acting prowess with a musical flair. Raised in an intellectually rich environment, his father a professor of linguistics and his mother a librarian, Efa grew up in Ibadan but hails from Ugep in Cross River State.

He attended Staff School, Ibadan, followed by the International School on Barth Road, before earning a Bachelor’s degree in Geography from the University of Ibadan. His artistic journey began in 2006 as a musician in the group X-Factor, and he released his debut EP, Waka EP, in 2011, followed by the single “Fall in Love” featuring Plantashun Boiz in 2014.

Efa transitioned into acting with a debut on Tinsel in 2011 as a debate moderator. He then appeared in MTV Shuga Naija (2013), and later featured prominently in Life 101 (2016), Ajoche, Rumour Has It, The Men's Club, and numerous films—including Isoken, Seven, Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story, This Lady Called Life, A Naija Christmas, and the 2024 Amazon Prime romance Soft Love.

Efa’s acting has earned him multiple nominations, including Best Actor at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards for Seven and This Lady Called Life, and nominations at the Best of Nollywood Awards.

He is known for his quiet intensity, intention-driven performances, and versatility, whether in film, TV series, or music. His presence resonates with authenticity and evolving artistry in Nigeria’s entertainment industry