It has been a whirlwind of announcements before (and when) this year began. Nollywood is not just stepping into 2025, it’s storming in with a thunderous roar.
This year, the Nigerian film industry is primed to deliver a cinematic buffet so rich, so diverse, and so utterly captivating that audiences worldwide will have to be glued to their screens and experience the motley delicacy of Nigerian stories. From heart-wrenching dramas to edge-of-your-seat thrillers, and from historical epics to chuckle-out-loud comedies, 2025 is shaping up to be the year Nollywood cements its place as a global powerhouse.
With visionary directors like Kunle Afolayan, Kemi Adetiba, and Biodun Stephen at the helm of things, and with star-studded casts that read like a Who’s Who of African talent, these films promise to be more than just entertainment; they will also be cultural landmarks in filmmaking. So, hey lucky ones, grab your popcorn, clear your schedules, and come with us into the first-view showroom of the most anticipated Nollywood movies of 2025.
- Finding Messiah:
A Political Drama Like No Other
Directed by Oscar Heman-Ackah, Finding Messiah is an audacious fusion of politics, music, and drama all set in the fictional Republic of Zambay. Early last year, the music video for the film seized the entertainment industry by the chest with how gripping it was. Since then, every Nollywood lover has been on the edge of their want for the movie itself. Finding Messiah is going to introduce us to an ancient civilisation with its own unique culture and language. With this, one should expect a fresh offering on what it means to narrate a story in Nollywood.
- Finding Me:
A Journey of Pain, Resentment and Self-Discovery
Funke Akindele’s Finding Me, announced in early 2024 and set for release in 2025, has been touted to be “a tsunami” (from the lips of some of her cast). It explores a most magnetic storyline in Nollywood films based on love and mental health. It promises a heartfelt exploration of downfall, resilience and self-discovery, even in the grapple of the psychological miasma prone to human condition. Funke has a stellar line-up of cast including Joseph Benjamin, Femi Adebayo, Omoni Oboli, Shaffy Bello, Dele Odule, Sharon Ooja, Omowunmi Dada, Efa Iwara, Emeka Nwagbaraocha and Dakore Egbuson-Akande. Finding Me promises to be an intense, emotional rollercoaster never seen before in Funke Akindele’s movies.
The cast is a dream team of Nollywood legends and rising stars: Pete Edochie, Ngozi Ezeonu, Taiwo Ajayi-Lycett, Alex Usifo, Bucci Franklin, and Ejike Asiegbu share the screen with music icons like Daddy Showkey and Sunshine Rosman. With its parfait of nail-biting drama and soul-stirring music, Finding Messiah is set to be a cinematic experience unlike anything we’ve seen before.
- To Kill a Monkey:
A Wild Tale of Morality and Survival
After a couple of silent years, Kemi Adetiba strikes again with To Kill a Monkey, a series that delves into the murky world of cybercrime. The story follows Efemini, a man whose life spirals out of control after he reconnects with an old friend. Forced into a life of crime, Efemini must navigate a moral minefield while staying one step ahead of the law.
With a powerhouse cast including Bucci Franklin, Stella Damasus, Chidi Mokeme, and Lilian Afegbai, this series has the whiff of a show as intense as it is thought-provoking. It’s not just a story about crime; it’s a deep leap into the human condition, where the writers explore the choices we make and the consequences we can’t escape.
- King of Boys:
The Beginning of the End—The Saga Continues
Alhaja Eniola Salami is back! And she’s fiercer than ever. At the very beginning of the year, Kemi Adetiba announced the release date of this latest wonder from the King of Boys franchise, and I must say even the creativity of the announcement reel on Instagram had everyone in a chokehold!
Kemi Adetiba’s King of Boys: The Beginning of the End promises to take the beloved franchise to startling new heights. Sola Sobowale reprises her iconic role as the ruthless power broker. This time, she is facing even greater challenges in her quest for dominance.
The full cast is not yet revealed, but with returning stars like Efa Iwara and Titi Kuti, and a plot packed with twists and turns, this third installment is set to be a rollercoaster of emotions. If you thought the first two seasons were intense, brace yourself, because this one’s going to blow your mind. Expect it in December!
- Recall:
A Psychological Thriller That Will Keep You Biting Your Nails
Kunle Afolayan’s Recall is certainly a masterclass in suspense. The film follows Goke and Anita, a couple whose perfect relationship unravels at the seams when hidden wrongs from the past start coming to light. As their trust is tested, the story takes unexpected turns, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.
Starring Sharon Ooja, Jimmy Jean-Louis, and Bimbo Akintola as central cast, Recall is a haunting exploration of love, loss, mental health and the secrets we keep in family and marriage. It premiered at AFRIFF in 2024 and is now set for a Netflix release in 2025. This psychological thriller is a must-watch for fans of mind-bending narratives.
- 77: The Festac Conspiracy:
A Historical Drama with a Modern Twist
Izu Ojukwu’s 77: The Festac Conspiracy takes us back to 1977, a pivotal year in Nigeria’s political history. The film is a sequel to ’76, also by Izu Ojukwu. It follows Captain Joseph Dewa (Ramsey Nouah) as he manoeuvres through the political turmoil surrounding the Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC ’77) days in Nigeria.
With a stellar cast including other competent actors like Rita Dominic, Seun Kuti, and Daniel K. Daniel, this historical drama is more than just a trip down memory lane; it’s, in fact, a powerful exploration of Nigeria’s cultural heritage and the challenges of a nation’s influx.
- Blood Sisters 2:
The Stakes Are Higher Than Ever
The first season of Blood Sisters left us breathless, right? If you agree, then be excited because the second season promises to up the ante! The “sisters”, Sarah and Kemi (Ini-Dinma Okojie and Nancy Isime), are back. They are going to face even more dangerous situations while navigating a whole world of more betrayal, intrigue, and suspense.
With fresh twists and new characters played by Michelle Dede, Ifeanyi Kalu, Blessing Jessica Obasi and Bolaji Ogunmola among others, Blood Sisters 2 is shaping up to be another binge-worthy masterpiece from Mo Abudu. Filming wrapped in December 2024, and while the release date is still under wraps, one thing is certain: this season will be worth the wait.
- Hell Ride:
A Story of Resilience and Hope
Uche Odoh’s Hell Ride is a poignant tale of a woman’s struggle to provide for her family in the face of overwhelming odds. Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha delivers a towering performance as Chimdi, a taxi driver battling illness, unemployment, and an irresponsible husband.
With a mix of drama and comedy, Hell Ride is a heartfelt tribute to the strength of women. It’s a story that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer for its unforgettable protagonist. The release date is unknown yet but expect it this year!
- Sugar Rush 2:
More Laughs, More Drama, More Fun
Jade Osiberu’s Sugar Rush 2 brings back the beloved Sugar Sisters—Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Bimbo Ademoye, and Bisola Aiyeola—for another round of lavish laughter and dangerous adventure. Filmed in Johannesburg and Lagos, this sequel captures the hyper energy of South African and Nigerian hubbubs, and also the festive spirit of “Detty December.” It is predicted to be released towards the end of the year.
With its mix of comedy and drama, Sugar Rush 2 is going to be the perfect escape for anyone looking for a good time.
- Headless:
A Psychological Thriller That Will Haunt You
Michael W. Ndiomu’s “Headless” boasts of being an unprecedented entry into Nollywood’s thriller genre. The film follows an ambitious Nollywood dreamer and former assassin as he confronts the ghosts of his past. With themes of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of violence, Headless is a gripping tale that will stay with you long after the credits roll. The cast line-up features Gideon Okeke, Baaj Adebule, Gbubemi Ejeye, Ruby Okezie and Segun Arinze, among others.
- Làbáké Olódodo:
The Warrior Lord has arrived!
Iyabo Ojo is set to dazzle Nigerians on the big screen this year with her epic cinematic debut. It is about an ancient freedom fighter who finds love in unexpected places. It was directed by Biodun Stephen. The cast is lush with stars like Muyiwa Ademola, Odunlade Adekola, Mercy Aigbe, Toyin Abraham, Olumide Oworu, among others. Get ready for Làbáké Olódodo, an epic, action-packed ride! Làbáké Olódodo hits cinemas nationwide on March 28.
- Wire Wire:
A Corporate Thriller with a Bite
Bolanle Austen-Peters’ Wire Wire dives into the world of corporate fraud, exploring themes of greed, ambition, and deceit. With a cast featuring Shaffy Bello, Neo Akpofure, and Tacha, this film is set to ignite conversations and keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
- Over the Bridge:
A Tale of Corruption and Redemption
Tolu Ajayi’s Over the Bridge is a psychological thriller that tackles themes of corruption and mental health. Starring Ozzy Agu and Segilola Ogidan, this film is a must-watch for fans of gripping drama.
- Phoenix Fury:
A Story of Betrayal and Revenge
Ifeoma Chukwuogo’s Phoenix Fury is a powerful exploration of betrayal and resilience. With a cast worth its salt and the striking visuals it promises, this film is set to leave a lasting impression on us all. Expect to see Richard Mofe-Damijo, Joseph Momodu, Tina Mba and Uzoamaka Aniunoh in full force.
- I Do Not Come to You by Chance:
A Story of Survival and Sacrifice
Adapted from Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani’s award-winning novel of the same title, this film explores themes of family, survival, and the lengths we go to for those we love. Directed by Ishaya Bako and executively produced by Genevieve Nnaji, it’s a story that will resonate with audiences worldwide—with a cast like Paul Nnadiekwe, Beverly Osu, Jennifer Eliogu, Sambasa Nzeribe and Blossom Chukwujekwu.
- This Is Lagos:
A Gritty Tale of Ambition and Survival
Kenneth Gyang’s obviously-titled This Is Lagos is a drama-comedy that captures the gritty realities of life in Lagos. It premiered last year at AFRIFF, and stars Gabriel Afolayan, Kate Henshaw and Eyinna Nwigwe. With a mix of crime, comedy, and music, this film is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in a megacity.
2025 is more than just a year in Nollywood; it’s a statement. These cinematic gems are a testament to the increasing never-stopping creativity, talent and ambition of Nollywood.
As we count down to their release, one thing is clear: Nollywood is no longer just a local phenomenon; it’s now a global force to be reckoned with. And we, as fans, as critics, are “sat” for every thrilling, heartwarming, and unforgettable moment.
Let the countdown begin!
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