Nollywood is in the midst of a remarkable evolution. Over the past five years, the industry has not only grown in size—producing an average of 2,500 films annually—but has also elevated its storytelling, direction, and production quality. Behind this transformation is a dynamic new generation of actors, directors, and screenwriters who are pushing creative boundaries and positioning Nigerian cinema on the global stage.
The Next Wave of Stars
Genoveva Umeh
A British-Nigerian actress, Genoveva burst onto the scene with her powerful performance in Blood Sisters (Netflix, 2022). Her nuanced portrayal of Timeyin added depth to the gripping crime drama, earning her nominations at prestigious awards. Genoveva’s ability to inhabit complex characters makes her one of Nollywood’s most exciting talents to watch.
Omowunmi Dada
Celebrated for her versatility, Omowunmi dazzled audiences in Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman (Netflix, 2022), an adaptation of Wole Soyinka’s play. Her commanding presence brought the rich Yoruba culture to life. Beyond acting, she advocates for deeper storytelling that reflects African realities, ensuring she’s not just a performer but a force shaping the industry’s future.
Mike Afolarin
Known for his breakout role as Ishaya Bello in Far from Home (Netflix, 2022), Mike has proven himself as an actor with range. His background in photography and filmmaking gives him an edge, allowing him to approach roles with a visual storyteller’s precision.
Visionary Directors in Nollywood 2025
Jade Osiberu
One of Nollywood’s most innovative filmmakers, Jade has consistently delivered hits like Isoken (2017) and Gangs of Lagos (Prime Video, 2023). Her storytelling blends cultural authenticity with universal themes, appealing to local and international audiences. Gangs of Lagos marked a milestone as the first African Original on Prime Video, solidifying her as a pioneer in Nollywood.
Bolanle Austen-Peters
Renowned for her visually stunning productions, Bolanle brought history to life in Elesin Oba. Her attention to detail and passion for preserving African heritage through cinema have earned her accolades globally.
Robert O. Peters
With Hijack ‘93 (Netflix, 2024), Robert showcased his ability to craft intense, emotionally gripping narratives. His direction turns historical moments into compelling cinematic experiences.
Scriptwriting Trailblazers
Dare Olaitan
Known for edgy films like Ojukokoro (2016) and Knockout Blessing (2018), Dare continues to challenge societal norms with thought-provoking scripts. His recent collaboration with Stephen Okonkwo on Ajosepo (2024) demonstrates his dedication to impactful storytelling.
Jade Osiberu
Beyond directing, Jade’s screenwriting prowess shines in projects like Sugar Rush (2019). Her scripts balance humour, drama, and cultural relevance, resonating deeply with diverse audiences.
Shola Dada
The genius behind the script for Kunle Afolayan’s Anikulapo (2022), Shola Dada delivered a compelling narrative that blended folklore with modern themes. The film’s success on Netflix, becoming one of its most-watched African titles, highlights his ability to captivate global audiences while staying rooted in Nigerian culture.
Nollywood Industry Impact and Global Reach
Nollywood’s visibility has soared, with streaming platforms like Netflix and Prime Video offering a global stage. Films like Elesin Oba and Gangs of Lagos have drawn international acclaim, showcasing the industry’s depth and versatility. YouTube channels, too, play a crucial role in promoting indie films and giving emerging talents a platform.
The Nigerian film industry, known as Nollywood, was valued at approximately $6.4 billion as of 2023. Projections indicate that this figure could rise to $14.82 billion by 2025. Nollywood’s rapid growth isn’t just a testament to its commercial success but to the creative revolution powered by its rising stars and innovators.
Case Study: Funke Akindele’s ‘Everybody Loves Jenifa‘
A standout moment in Nollywood’s history came with Funke Akindele’s Everybody Loves Jenifa. This comedy-drama became the first West African film to gross $1.6 billion in global box office sales.
Funke’s iconic portrayal of Jenifa, paired with a sharp critique of societal issues, underscores her unparalleled influence in Nollywood.
Conclusion
The last five years have cemented Nollywood’s place as a global powerhouse. Visionaries like Jade Osiberu, performers like Genoveva Umeh and Omowunmi Dada, and storytellers like Dare Olaitan and Shola Dada are redefining what Nigerian cinema represents. With their fresh ideas and bold projects, Nollywood’s future is brighter than ever—a true beacon of African excellence on the global stage.
