The Nigerian film industry, popularly known as Nollywood, has long been a vibrant hub of creativity and cultural storytelling. With its ability to produce films that resonate across Africa and beyond, Nollywood continues to capture the imagination of audiences worldwide. As we step into 2025, a new wave of filmmakers is redefining the landscape, blending innovation with tradition and pushing boundaries in storytelling, cinematography, and production quality.
Here are some of the Nigerian filmmakers to watch in 2025.
- Bolanle Austen-Peters
Bolanle Austen-Peters has consistently pushed the envelope in the Nigerian creative space. Known for her theatrical prowess and films like “The Bling Lagosians” and “Man of God”, she masterfully bridges the gap between stage and screen. In 2025, Austen-Peters is expected to continue her streak of groundbreaking work, with projects rumored to delve deeper into untold African stories, combining artistic flair with compelling narratives.
- Kemi Adetiba
A powerhouse in Nollywood, Kemi Adetiba is celebrated for her blockbuster hits like “The Wedding Party” and “King of Boys”. Adetiba’s films often feature strong, multidimensional characters and are lauded for their production quality and storytelling depth. In 2025, she is reportedly working on new projects that promise to further elevate the Nollywood standard, blending cinematic spectacle with narratives that resonate globally.
- Kunle Afolayan
A veteran with a penchant for cultural storytelling, Kunle Afolayan remains one of Nollywood’s most innovative filmmakers. Known for films like “Citation” and “Aníkulápo”, Afolayan’s work celebrates African heritage and history. In 2025, his upcoming projects are expected to delve deeper into folklore and contemporary issues, cementing his reputation as a storyteller who bridges the past and present.
- Chinaza Onuzo
Chinaza Onuzo is one of the driving forces behind several high-profile Nollywood productions. With films like “The Set Up” and “Love in a Pandemic”, Onuzo has proven his knack for creating engaging, character-driven stories. In 2025, he is poised to expand his portfolio with more ambitious projects, potentially collaborating with international streaming platforms to bring Nollywood stories to a global audience.
- Biyi Bandele (Posthumous Legacy)
Though Biyi Bandele passed away in 2022, his impact on Nigerian cinema continues to inspire a new generation of filmmakers. Bandele’s works, including “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman”, showcase his dedication to adapting complex literary works and historical narratives. In 2025, his influence is seen in the works of emerging filmmakers who aim to continue his legacy of nuanced storytelling.
- CJ Obasi
CJ Obasi, often referred to as the “Mad Man” of Nollywood, is celebrated for his unconventional approach to filmmaking. With films like “Ojuju” and “Mami Wata”, Obasi has carved a niche in the fantasy and horror genres. His visually stunning and thematically rich stories are anticipated to gain even more traction in 2025 as audiences seek fresh and experimental narratives.
- EbonyLife Studios Team (Mo Abudu)
Mo Abudu, the driving force behind EbonyLife Studios, has been instrumental in putting Nollywood on the global map. Known for producing hits like “Fifty” and “Chief Daddy”, EbonyLife’s projects have redefined African storytelling. In 2025, the studio is expected to release more content tailored for international audiences, fostering collaborations with global platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime.
- Uyaiedu Ikpe-Etim
As a filmmaker and advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in Nollywood, Uyaiedu Ikpe-Etim is a bold voice in the industry. Her work, including “Ìfọ́”—a story of same-sex love in Nigeria—challenges societal norms and pushes for inclusivity. In 2025, Ikpe-Etim is expected to continue creating narratives that give voice to marginalized communities, opening up Nollywood to diverse perspectives.
- Tope Oshin
Tope Oshin’s extensive work spans television, film, and documentaries. Known for “Up North” and “We Don’t Live Here Anymore”, Oshin’s films often explore themes of identity, family, and societal expectations. Her upcoming projects in 2025 promise to be equally thought-provoking, with a focus on stories that celebrate resilience and the human spirit.
- Dimeji Ajibola
A trailblazer in the sci-fi and action genres, Dimeji Ajibola is pushing Nollywood into uncharted territories. His work on projects like “Ratnik” showcases his commitment to high-concept storytelling and cutting-edge visual effects. In 2025, Ajibola is expected to lead the charge in expanding Nollywood’s genre offerings, captivating audiences with futuristic and imaginative tales.
- Ema Edosio Deelen
Ema Edosio Deelen is known for her gritty, authentic storytelling. Her debut feature, “Kasala!”, earned critical acclaim for its raw depiction of urban Nigerian life. In 2025, Edosio Deelen’s projects are expected to continue this trend, shedding light on everyday struggles and triumphs with a keen eye for detail and empathy.
- Bolanle Olukanni
As a filmmaker and media personality, Bolanle Olukanni has made a name for herself with impactful documentaries and films that highlight social issues. Her work in 2025 is anticipated to focus on stories that inspire and educate, tackling topics ranging from mental health to gender equality with sensitivity and depth.
The Future of Nollywood
The filmmakers mentioned above represent a cross-section of Nollywood’s dynamic talent pool. Their work is not only transforming Nigerian cinema but also contributing to the global film industry by offering unique perspectives and diverse narratives. With increased investment, technological advancements, and a growing international audience, Nollywood is poised for even greater achievements in 2025 and beyond.
As these filmmakers continue to innovate and tell compelling stories, the world is taking notice. From film festivals to streaming platforms, Nigerian filmmakers are making their mark, ensuring that Nollywood remains a powerful voice in global cinema. For audiences, 2025 promises to be an exciting year of groundbreaking films and unforgettable storytelling from the heart of Africa.