Through the years, Nollywood has been shaped by visionaries whose creativity and dedication have built one of the world’s most vibrant film industries. Among these trailblazers are women who are not only redefining storytelling but also proving their strength as business leaders, innovators, and cultural icons.
These female directors are making waves, breaking barriers, and establishing names that resonate far beyond the screen. In celebrating them, we honor the power of women who continue to drive Nollywood forward and inspire the next generation of filmmakers. Join us in recognizing the top 10 female directors in Nollywood.
1. Funke Akindele
Funke Akindele is one of Nollywood’s most successful actresses turned directors. To begin with, her film Omo Ghetto: The Saga became the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of all time. As a result, this cemented her status as a box-office queen. Soon after, she followed this with Battle on Buka Street, another blockbuster. Moreover, it showcased her ability to blend comedy, drama, and social commentary. Beyond that, she has built a strong brand as a producer and entrepreneur, therefore inspiring women in the industry.
2. Kemi Adetiba
Kemi Adetiba showcases a stylish, cinematic approach to storytelling. To start, her debut feature The Wedding Party broke records as one of Nollywood’s biggest hits. Soon after, King of Boys became a cultural phenomenon, praised for its bold themes of power and corruption. As a result, Adetiba’s work has elevated Nollywood’s global appeal. In fact, King of Boys: The Return of the King streamed on Netflix to international acclaim, further solidifying her reputation as one of Nollywood’s most influential directors.
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3. Omoni Oboli
Omoni Oboli is a versatile actress, producer, and director. Her films often center on family, women’s empowerment, and social issues. Her movie Wives on Strike sparked conversations about gender roles and activism. Additionally, Okafor’s Law explored relationships and cultural taboos. Oboli has carved a niche as a socially conscious filmmaker. She balances entertainment with advocacy.
4. Biodun Stephen
Biodun Stephen creates emotional, character-driven narratives that resonate with everyday Nigerians. She directed Picture Perfect and Breaded Life and earned wide praise for its realistic portrayal of love and relationships. Similarly, Tiwa’s Baggage showcased her ability to weave humor into heartfelt storytelling. She has become a go-to director for relatable, family-centered dramas.
5. Mildred Okwo
Mildred Okwo is a veteran director known for sharp dialogue and urban realism. Her film The Meeting was a critical and commercial success, blending humor with political satire. She co-founded The Audrey Silva Company with actress Rita Dominic, producing films like Surulere. In addition, Okwo is respected for her commitment to quality storytelling and her role in shaping modern Nollywood.
6. Tope Oshin
Tope Oshin is one of Nollywood’s most versatile female directors. To begin with, her career spans film, television, and documentaries, showcasing her wide-ranging talent. In particular, she directed Up North, a visually stunning film that explored love and cultural diversity in Northern Nigeria. Furthermore, her work on We Don’t Live Here Anymore tackled LGBTQ themes with courage and sensitivity. As a result, she stands out as one of the few Nollywood directors who boldly address marginalized issues, making her a trailblazer in the industry.
7. Bolanle Austen-Peters
Bolanle Austen-Peters is a cultural powerhouse who transitioned from stage to screen. She is the founder of Terra Kulture. She directed films like The Bling Lagosians and Man of God, both of which highlight Nigerian society’s complexities. Austen-Peters is also known for her ability to merge theater, film, and cultural heritage. This gives Nollywood a unique artistic edge.
8. Jade Osiberu
Jade Osiberu is a rising star in Nollywood. She creates youth-focused, modern stories that capture the vibrancy of contemporary Nigerian life. She directed Sugar Rush, which achieved box-office success and established her as one of Nollywood’s most influential new-generation filmmakers. Also, her movie, Gangs of Lagos became the first Nigerian original film on Prime Video. It earned global attention. Osiberu’s work reflects the vibrancy of contemporary Nigerian life. She is one of the most influential voices of her generation.
9. Mary Remmy Njoku
Mary Remmy Njoku is an actress, producer, and director who founded ROK Studios, one of Africa’s leading content companies. To begin with, she has produced and directed numerous films and TV series through ROK. For example, her works include Thy Will Be Done and Festac Town. In addition, Njoku’s focus on building platforms for African storytelling has established her as a key industry builder. As a result, she expands Nollywood’s reach across Africa and beyond, while also empowering new talent to share authentic stories.
10. Mo Abudu
Mo Abudu drives Nollywood forward with a bold, entrepreneurial style that blends African storytelling with global appeal. She founded EbonyLife Films and produced hits like Fifty, The Wedding Party, Chief Daddy, and The Royal Hibiscus Hotel, while also tackling social issues in Òlòtūré and adapting Wole Soyinka’s Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman. Furthermore, she expanded her reach with Netflix projects such as Blood Sisters, giving Nigerian cinema unprecedented international visibility. As a result, Abudu stands out as a trailblazer who elevates Nollywood’s profile and inspires women across Africa.
