Actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has expressed admiration for colleague Iyabo Ojo, declaring her Woman Crush Wednesday and describing her as one of the best in Nollywood.
In a post on Instagram, Funke praised Iyabo’s beauty, style, and elegance, while also commending her exceptional performance in the upcoming movie “Behind The Scenes”.
According to Funke, Iyabo’s talent, confidence, and passion for acting shine through in every role she takes on, solidifying her position as a top actress in the industry.
She wrote: “WomanCrushWednesday. My WCW is the beautiful, stylish and elegant Iyabo Ojo! Her performance in Behind the Scenes was absolutely phenomenal. Iyabo continues to prove why she’s one of the best in Nollywood. Her talent, confidence, and passion always shine through every role she plays”.
The post features clips of Iyabo on set, showcasing her impressive work and dedication to her craft.
Actress and filmmaker Bukunmi Oluwasina has labelled the popular phrase “women supporting women” as a facade in the Nigerian film industry.
In an interview with BBC Pidgin, the mother of one expressed skepticism about the authenticity of female solidarity, asserting that such support is often fleeting or insincere.
She said: “You know say women supporting women for Nollywood na scam. “E no dey always long. Even if they support each other, we know how e dey, but we dey see the men and dem dey do am. Everybody know say woman enemy na fellow woman.
“No be only for Nollywood. Women supporting women at some point, you go just see am. Even if dem talk say e dey happen, you go feel am say na scam.
“E no dey happen, and even if e happen, sometimes e no dey genuine”.
Oluwasina highlighted a troubling trend in Nollywood, where women are more likely to offer financial or professional assistance to men than to their female counterparts.
“If you follow one woman talk, you go hear them talk say dem fit borrow man money make e start business, but to borrow fellow woman money make she start business e dey always hard. I no know how the thing dey like that. I no fault anybody, but e just dey,” she said.
She noted that while many women achieve success through hard work and talent, their efforts are often overshadowed by stereotypes implying that every successful woman relies on a sponsor.
“Women dey industry wey no get sponsor, dem dey do the work, the work dey show, we know dem, we see dem and their work. But na other people wey dey under their shadow dey use am run their thing, dey water down those women effort, making it look like everybody get sponsor,” she added.
Film director and treasurer of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Lagos Chapter, Oghenenyerhovwo Nana, popularly known as Ny Nana, has urged the Nigerian film industry to give directors the recognition and compensation they deserve.
Speaking on the evolving role of the DGN, Nana said, “Visibility is no longer enough. Directors need to be recognized as the backbone of the industry and compensated accordingly. The DGN is evolving into not just a community but a bargaining force—one that advocates for fair wages, royalties, and credit recognition both locally and internationally. In the future, I see us moving toward stronger legal protections and professional standards that place directors at the center of negotiations.”
Nana, who began her career as a radio and television presenter before transitioning into film, also highlighted the importance of financial discipline in sustaining Nollywood. Reflecting on her dual role as a filmmaker and Treasurer of the Guild, she explained:
“For me, it’s about discipline and perspective. As filmmakers, our creativity drives us, but as Treasurer, I recognize that sustainability in our industry comes from financial accountability. I approach Guild finances with the same attention to detail I bring to storytelling—every number must serve a purpose, just as every scene must serve the story. I balance both roles by separating passion from process. While I create from instinct, I manage resources with structure, transparency, and foresight.”
She has directed projects including April 1st, Hypocrites Chair, and Thin Line, and is regarded as one of Nollywood’s bold voices advocating for authentic storytelling and industry reform.
For more than two decades, Nollywood has been shaped by women whose careers have stood the test of time. From the early days of home videos to today’s streaming platforms, certain actresses have managed not only to remain relevant but also to reinvent themselves, proving that true star power only grows stronger with time.
Among the most enduring figures is Genevieve Nnaji, whose grace and international acclaim, particularly with Lionheart on Netflix, helped open Nollywood to global audiences. In the same league stands Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, who has consistently blended acting with activism, proving that influence can extend far beyond the screen. While Genevieve’s quieter presence in recent years has left fans anticipating her next big move, Omotola continues to use her platform to push social causes, reminding the industry that impact is measured in more than just box office numbers.
If Genevieve and Omotola symbolize Nollywood’s pioneering elegance, then Funke Akindele represents its new model of commercial dominance. After launching Jenifa in 2008, she built an entire franchise around the beloved character, with Jenifa’s Diary becoming one of the most successful comedy series in Nigerian television history. Her ability to connect with everyday audiences culminated in Everybody Loves Jenifa (2024), which smashed records as Nigeria’s highest-grossing film, earning over N1 billion at the box office, a feat none has achieved.
Rita Dominic has carved out her own legacy, known for her versatility and sophistication on screen. While she continues to earn critical acclaim for her nuanced roles, her recent move into production and her globally streamed projects have placed her alongside contemporaries who have mastered both the art and the business of film. Like Dominic, Kate Henshaw has also shown the power of reinvention. From her 1993 debut to her recent standout performance in Blood Sisters on Netflix, Henshaw’s consistency mirrors her off-screen reinvention as a fitness and wellness advocate, proving that longevity in Nollywood is as much about discipline as it is about talent.
Equally compelling is the career of Nse Ikpe-Etim, whose emotional depth has made her one of Nollywood’s most critically respected actresses. While she entered the scene later than some of her peers, her performances in Reloaded, Mr. & Mrs., and more recently Shanty Town (2023) show a career still very much in ascent, marked by elegance and intensity that rivals any of her contemporaries.
Omoni Oboli, meanwhile, has taken a slightly different path by balancing her career as both actress and filmmaker. From Wives on Strike to Okafor’s Law, she has combined entertainment with social commentary, and in recent years, she has carved out another niche by dominating Nollywood’s YouTube space with content that consistently attracts millions of views. While Akindele holds the crown for cinema box office records, Oboli’s mastery of digital platforms has positioned her as Nollywood’s queen of online audiences.
Together, these women tell the story of Nollywood’s evolution from Genevieve and Omotola’s trailblazing roles, to Funke Akindele’s record-breaking box office numbers, Rita Dominic’s grace and adaptability, Kate Henshaw’s reinvention, Nse Ikpe-Etim’s critical acclaim, and Omoni Oboli’s digital empire. Each has taken a different path, yet all remain central to Nollywood’s growth. Their ability to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry is proof that talent paired with vision does not just endure, it thrives.
Extra Mile, the inspiring feature film produced by Five2 Media and Entertainment, has been honoured with the Best Film by a Female Filmmaker – Nollywood award at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) 2025.
The powerful production, spearheaded by Executive Producer Solate Ovundah-Akarolo and produced by Joy Grant alongside Ovundah-Akarolo, captivated audiences and judges alike with its heartfelt storytelling, stellar performances, and innovative approach to Nollywood cinema.
The win cements Five2 Media and Entertainment’s reputation as a force within Nollywood, reinforces the industry’s growing presence on the world stage, and highlights the creative power of women behind the camera.
The film tells a stirring story about friendship and the choices that test it. Mercy Johnson, Jim Iyke, Lilian Esoro and other Nollywood veterans deliver performances that bring both weight and tenderness to the screen.
What carries the film beyond its star power is its honesty, the way it explores betrayal and resilience with a clarity that is at once intimate and universal.
“TINFF’s recognition is an encouragement for female voices in Nollywood to keep breaking boundaries and telling stories that matter,” Producer Joy Grant said.
The award was received on behalf of Five2 Media and Entertainment’s by Canada-based communications lead Oraye St. Franklyn, who conveyed the company’s gratitude and dedication of the award to every member of the cast and crew who worked tirelessly to bring the moving story to life.
For the film’s Executive Producer Solate Ovundah-Akarolo, the award goes deeper than prestige. It signals a turning point for the industry, where female filmmakers are not only participating but leading and being celebrated for the powerful stories they tell. In Toronto, where African cinema and the diaspora meet an international audience, that message could not have been clearer.
Nollywood has long commanded attention for its sheer output, but moments like this extend its reach into global cinema, opening doors to new audiences, wider distribution and fresh conversations. Extra Mile stands as proof that Nollywood stories travel well, carrying the weight of local realities while touching on themes that resonate across cultures globally.
The award is not just a victory for one film or filmmaker. It is a marker of Nollywood’s steady rise and a reminder that when women step into the frame as storytellers, the view is broader, bolder and richer. Extra Mile is both a celebration of craft and a promise of what is yet to come.
Among the galaxy of stars who attended the star-studded award and Gala event from across the world, were Nollywood’s Ayo Makun also known as AY and Julius Agwu.
Nollywood actress cum film producer Abigail Chinemema Kanu has opined that the Nigerian film industry is a space filled with opportunities.
In a recent chat, the producer of ‘Whisper of the Heart’ said, “Nollywood is a great space of opportunities not totally negativity as people may think.”
Kanu also reiterated that Nollywood has seen many of the practitioners exploring a lot of good and also created jobs for many Nigerians and non-Nigerians.
Some Nollywood icons have not only made a name for themselves but have also passed on the torch to the next generation. Here are 11 legendary actors whose children are venturing into acting and the entertainment industry.
(1) SUNDAY OMOBOLANLE (Papi Luwe) and SUNKANMI OMOBOLANLE
Sunday Omobolanle, better known by his stage name Papi Luwe, is a veteran actor and comedian who has been entertaining Nigerian audiences for decades. Known for his comedic timing and ability to bring humor to even the most serious situations, Papi Luwe has become one of the most beloved figures in Yoruba cinema. His son, Sunkanmi Omobolanle, has followed in his footsteps, carving out his own niche in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Papi Luwe’s career began in the 1970s when he joined a traveling theatre group. He later transitioned to television and film, becoming known for his ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles with equal skill. His unique style of delivery and facial expressions have made him a fan favorite, and he has appeared in countless Yoruba language films over the years. Sunkanmi Omobolanle grew up surrounded by the film industry, often visiting film sets with his father. This early exposure sparked his interest in acting, and he made his debut in the industry at a young age. Over the years, Sunkanmi has appeared in numerous films and television series, showcasing his versatility as an actor. While Sunkanmi has undoubtedly benefited from his father’s legacy, he has worked hard to establish his own identity in the industry. He has taken on a variety of roles, from comedy to drama, proving that he has inherited his father’s versatility.
(2) ADEBAYO SALAMI (Oga Bello) and sons
Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, is a legendary figure in the Yoruba film industry. With a career spanning over five decades, Oga Bello has made significant contributions to the growth and development of Nollywood, particularly in Yoruba language cinema. His passion for acting and filmmaking has been passed down to his children, with two of his sons, Femi Adebayo and Tope Adebayo, becoming notable actors in their own right. Oga Bello began his acting career in the 1960s with a group called Young Concert Party. Over the years, he has appeared in countless films and television productions, often playing authoritative roles such as kings, wealthy businessmen, or community leaders. His ability to bring depth and nuance to his characters has earned him widespread respect in the industry. Femi Adebayo, Oga Bello’s son, has emerged as one of the most popular actors in contemporary Nollywood. He started acting at a young age, appearing alongside his father in several productions. Femi has since gone on to star in numerous films, both in Yoruba and English languages. He has also ventured into producing and directing, further cementing his place in the industry. Femi’s performances have earned him several awards and nominations, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Tope Adebayo, another of Oga Bello’s sons, has also made a name for himself in the film industry. While perhaps not as widely known as his brother Femi, Tope has appeared in numerous productions and has been steadily building his career in Nollywood.
Both Femi and Tope have spoken about the influence their father has had on their careers, citing his work ethic and dedication to the craft as major sources of inspiration. They have also acknowledged the pressure that comes with being the children of such a respected figure in the industry, pushing them to work harder to prove themselves.
(3) ADEYEMI AFOLAYAN and HIS CHILDREN
Popularly known as (Ade Love) Adeyemi Afolayan, better known by his stage name Ade Love, was a pioneer in the Nigerian film industry. He was a renowned actor, producer, and director who made significant contributions to the development of Yoruba cinema. Ade Love’s legacy lives on through his talented children who have become notable figures in Nollywood. Kunle Afolayan, perhaps the most famous of Ade Love’s children, has established himself as a critically acclaimed actor, director, and producer. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and high production values, Kunle has directed award-winning films such as “The Figurine,” “October 1,” and “Citation.” His work has garnered international recognition and has helped elevate the standards of Nigerian cinema. Gabriel Afolayan, another son of Ade Love, has carved out his own niche in the industry as both an actor and a musician. With his versatile acting skills and ability to embody complex characters, Gabriel has won several awards for his performances in films like “Ojuju” and “Hoodrush.” Moji Afolayan, Ade Love’s daughter, has also made a name for herself in the industry. She has appeared in numerous Yoruba language films and has directed several productions, continuing her father’s legacy in Yoruba cinema.
(4) PETE EDOCHIE AND YUL EDOCHIE
Pete Edochie is a name that resonates with excellence in Nigerian cinema. Known for his powerful performances and commanding screen presence, Pete Edochie has been a prominent figure in Nollywood for decades. His son, Yul Edochie, has followed in his footsteps and established himself as a talented actor in his own right. Pete Edochie first gained international recognition for his portrayal of Okonkwo in the NTA adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart” in 1987. Since then, he has appeared in numerous films, often playing roles of authority figures such as kings, elders, or wealthy businessmen. His deep voice and ability to deliver lines with gravitas have made him one of the most respected actors in Nigeria Yul Edochie, born in 1982, grew up watching his father’s performances and developed a passion for acting at a young age. He made his Nollywood debut in 2005 and has since appeared in over 100 films. Yul has proven himself to be a versatile actor, taking on a wide range of roles in both English and Igbo language films. He has also ventured into directing and producing, expanding his influence in the industry. While Yul has undoubtedly benefited from his father’s legacy, he has worked hard to establish his own identity in Nollywood. He has been recognized with several award nominations and has built a substantial fan base of his own.
(5) JIDE KOSOKO AND HIS ACTING DAUGHTERS.
Jide Kosoko is a veteran actor who has been gracing Nigerian screens for over four decades. Known for his versatility and ability to seamlessly switch between Yoruba and English language productions, Kosoko has become one of the most recognizable faces in Nollywood. His passion for acting has been passed down to his daughters, Shola and Bidemi Kosoko, who have both made names for themselves in the industry. Jide Kosoko’s career began in the 1970s when he started appearing in television productions. He transitioned to film in the 1980s and has since featured in hundreds of movies, playing a wide array of characters from comedic roles to serious dramatic parts. His contributions to the Nigerian film industry have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. Shola Kosoko, Jide’s daughter, followed her father’s footsteps into acting at a young age. She has appeared in both Yoruba and English language films, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Shola has also ventured into production, further expanding her influence in the industry. Bidemi Kosoko, another of Jide’s daughters, has also made a name for herself in Nollywood. She began her acting career as a child actress and has grown to become a well-respected performer in her own right. Bidemi has appeared in numerous films and has garnered a significant fan base for her acting prowess. Both Shola and Bidemi have spoken about the influence their father has had on their careers, crediting him with providing guidance and support as they navigated the competitive world of Nollywood.
Veteran actor, Kanayo O. Kanayo, has recounted the hard work and sacrifices that helped shape Nollywood into what it is today.
Sharing his thoughts in a commentary on Instagram, the screen legend stressed the depth of commitment invested in building the industry.
Referencing American actor Denzel Washington, Kanayo remarked that if Washington had channelled the same energy he put into film production, “his colour would have changed.”
“If Denzel Washington puts in the number of hours I put in the production here, his color will change to charcoal the next day. Because we built this industry with tears, sweat, and blood”, he said.
It was a night of glitz and cultural pride in Los Angeles as Nollywood and Hollywood stars converged on the iconic TCL Chinese Theater for the premiere of Monday, an African-inspired short film by Nigerian filmmaker, Babajide Kolawole otherwise known as Jide Kol.
The glamorous event drew industry figures and movie-lovers from both continents, celebrating a project that bridges African tradition with Hollywood’s cinematic style.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the film, Kol explained that his time at the New York Film Academy in California exposed a glaring absence of Africa in global cinema studies.
“The inspiration comes from culture. During my time at the New York Film Academy in California, I realized how absent Africa was from the global cinema conversation. We studied American, Russian, Italian, Asian, and German cinema history, but not a single mention of Africa,” Kol said.
He added: “That fueled my determination to create a film blending Hollywood’s cinematic approach with the cultural content I grew up watching in Nigerian legends like Abija, Fadeyi Oloro, and Orishabunmi.”
The filmmaker and actor admitted the journey of shooting the film was far from smooth.
According to Kol, casting proved difficult as several actors within his Christian circle declined the lead role due to the storyline’s themes around African spirituality.
Rooted in Yoruba cosmology, the film titled; Monday explores the deity of fortune, Orisha Ajé, who is honored on Ojo Ajé, which corresponds to Monday in the English calendar.
Media personality Emma Ugolee has expressed his disappointment over the current state of Nollywood, criticising the industry’s growing preference for social media popularity over actual acting talent.
In a recent Instagram post, Ugolee lamented that actors are often cast based on their follower count rather than their skills, which he believes is unfair to trained professionals.
He cited the example of two lead actors from the popular series “To Kill a Monkey,” who have a combined following of less than 380,000 on Instagram despite being highly respected for their craft.
Ugolee contrasted this with a popular internet personality, Egungun, who has amassed over 2 million followers by creating content that involves asking women to perform suggestive actions on camera.
Ugolee argued that this trend is detrimental to the industry, as it pressures actors to prioritise building a social media presence over honing their craft.
He called on directors to ignore this trend and focus on casting actors based on their talent rather than their online popularity.
By doing so, Ugolee said that Nollywood can promote a more sustainable and equitable approach to casting, one that values the skills and dedication of trained actors.
He wrote, “Did you know that there is a currently practised unwritten Nollywood rule that should be dead already for how much it sucks.
“Actors have been getting roles based on the social media following that they command, which is considered vital for the successful publicity of the movie.
“I tried to capture everything wrong with it, with the pictures above. In the first two slides, you will probably notice that the two lead actors from the trending — To Kill a Monkey series have a collective following of almost 380k
“They are certified by both male and female fan bases to be exceptionally great at their craft, possessing both the gift and the training to act.
True professionals.
“The ironic reflection of numbers is due to poor ability to deliver on public scandals, entertain with their real lives & engage in public interaction at the cost of privacy
“They need to be rich at frivolity, overly social, dare with nudity, beef-prone with colleagues, controversial, materialistic, and involved in other dramas unrelated to acting.
“The 3rd slide is an internet sensation that embodies understanding of what it takes to be followed on these streets, and all he needs is one mic.
“One mic is to ask people on the streets about the cost of what they are wearing or driving when he meets them.
“With ladies, she has trademark requests that they show how wiggly & wobbly both their mammary glands and butt cheeks can be. Reveal fav s#x positions, repeat words after him & demand a replay of the sounds they make in the bedroom. For that, he has a faithful 2M followers & counting.
“This is in no way to make fun of what he’s doing, but to show you exactly what it takes to get the engagement Nollywood is asking of these professional actors as tickets to get acting gigs.
“This is unfair to actors. Believe it or not, some actors just want to act without being popular. Stop putting pressure on them to meet your criteria for a public following.
“They might have everything it takes to kill the role and nothing it takes to impress fickle-minded people en masse daily. Shout out to directors who ignore this rule while casting.”
