Nollywood has long been a male-dominated industry, but in recent years, the tides have shifted. Women filmmakers in Nigeria are not just making waves—they are reshaping the entire landscape of the industry. As we step into 2025, these women have carved out influential roles, leading groundbreaking projects, inspiring millions, and challenging norms.
Below is an exploration of the top 10 most influential female filmmakers in Nollywood, whose work continues to leave an indelible mark on both the local and global film scene.
1. Funke Akindele: Nollywood’s Box-Office Queen and Multi-Talented Producer
Funke Akindele has been a force in Nollywood for over two decades, and her influence has only grown stronger. Known initially for her comedic genius in the hit TV series Jenifa, Akindele has proven her mettle behind the camera as well. She not only produced the record-breaking Battle on Buka Street, but her production company, Jenifa’s Diary Productions, is a dominant player in the Nigerian film scene.
In 2025, Akindele’s Battle on Buka Street became one of the highest-grossing films in Nollywood history, with a cumulative box office earnings surpassing ₦1 billion. The film, a comedy-drama that touches on issues of familial loyalty, love, and sacrifice, resonated deeply with Nigerian audiences and sparked discussions about urbanization and social change. Akindele’s storytelling reflects an ability to combine mass appeal with social commentary, making her an undeniable force in the industry.
2. Kemi Adetiba: The Visionary Behind Groundbreaking Films
Kemi Adetiba has firmly established herself as one of Nollywood’s most innovative directors and producers. Adetiba’s King of Boys (2018) marked a pivotal moment in Nollywood, pushing the boundaries of Nigerian storytelling by blending elements of crime drama, politics, and family loyalty into a thrilling narrative that captured global attention. In 2025, she returned to her roots with King of Boys 2: The Return of the King, which further cemented her status as one of the industry’s brightest stars.
Adetiba’s flair for creating powerful, multifaceted characters has set her apart. She is known for her fearless approach to filmmaking, tackling complex issues such as corruption, power struggles, and the complexities of Nigerian society. Her commitment to high-quality productions has earned her both national and international accolades, with King of Boys and its sequel being screened at multiple international film festivals.
Her work continues to inspire a new generation of filmmakers to push boundaries and tell unapologetically bold Nigerian stories.
3. Ruth Kadiri: Nollywood’s Digital Darling
Ruth Kadiri has made a name for herself not only as an actress but also as a filmmaker. Known for her dynamic presence on YouTube, Kadiri’s films have consistently drawn millions of views. Her 2024 release Mad Wife and her web series Married have become some of the most-watched Nigerian films on YouTube.
Kadiri’s approach to filmmaking has brought a new dimension to Nollywood, with an emphasis on accessibility and mass appeal. In 2025, her content continues to dominate the digital space, making her one of Nollywood’s most influential filmmakers.
4. Jade Osiberu: Championing Diversity and Authentic Storytelling
Jade Osiberu has emerged as one of the most promising young filmmakers in Nollywood. Her works, including Isoken (2017) and Gangs of Lagos (2024), have gained both critical and commercial success. Gangs of Lagos, a gripping crime thriller, made waves as the first African original film to be released on Amazon Prime Video.
Osiberu is known for her ability to craft stories that are not only engaging but also socially relevant. She tackles themes of corruption, class disparity, and the challenges of navigating life in Lagos. Her work speaks to both local audiences who can relate to the intricacies of Nigerian society, and international audiences who are drawn to the authenticity of her stories.
By making bold choices in her content and production quality, Osiberu continues to be a significant figure in the effort to elevate Nollywood on the world stage.
5. Mildred Okwo: Leading With Wit and Heart
Mildred Okwo’s films have consistently challenged conventions and defied expectations in Nollywood. Her 2012 directorial debut, The Meeting, remains a beloved classic that combined comedy with social commentary, and La Femme Anjola (2021), which dealt with complex themes of love and betrayal, showcased her growth as a filmmaker.
Okwo has a unique ability to create films that are both accessible and thought-provoking. Her knack for bringing relatable stories to the screen with humor and depth has made her a staple in Nollywood. In 2025, she continues to produce films that are not only commercially viable but also socially relevant, reinforcing her status as one of the most influential women in the industry.
6. Mo Abudu: The Mogul of Nollywood
Mo Abudu, known as the “Oprah of Africa,” is a trailblazer in Nollywood. As the founder of EbonyLife Studios, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of Nigerian cinema. Her 2024 hit, Blood Sisters, became Netflix’s first African original series and was widely lauded for its strong female lead and gripping storyline.
Abudu’s focus has always been on producing content that tells African stories from an authentic perspective. Her work with EbonyLife Studios has created opportunities for countless filmmakers and actors, and her international collaborations continue to expand Nollywood’s reach across the globe. As of 2025, Abudu’s influence extends well beyond Nollywood, positioning her as one of the most powerful women in African media.
7. Biodun Stephen: The Rising Star of Nollywood
Biodun Stephen is a filmmaker whose rise to prominence has been nothing short of impressive. Her films, such as Breaded Life and Sistá, have gained significant attention for their nuanced exploration of relationships, family dynamics, and societal challenges.
Stephen’s ability to create heartfelt and relatable films has earned her a dedicated fan base. Her storytelling often explores the complexities of Nigerian life, tackling themes like loyalty, personal ambition, and societal expectations. In 2025, she remains a key figure in Nollywood, pushing the envelope with her unique blend of humor and depth.
8. Isioma Osaje: Master of Execution
Isioma Osaje is a first assistant director whose work behind the scenes has been integral to the success of numerous Nollywood productions. Her experience working on films like Omo Ghetto: The Saga and Your Excellency has earned her recognition for her organizational expertise and leadership on set.
Though not always in the spotlight, Osaje’s role in Nollywood’s success cannot be overstated. Her ability to manage large teams and maintain high standards of production has made her one of the most respected figures in the industry.
9. Dolly Nwaduba: A Rising Star in Nollywood Production
Dolly Nwaduba is an emerging force in Nollywood with a track record of producing thought-provoking films. With works such as Drawn to You and Serendipity, Nwaduba is gaining recognition for her unique approach to storytelling, which focuses on mental health, family, and resilience.
Her success lies in her ability to blend commercial appeal with social commentary, creating films that are both entertaining and impactful. In 2025, she continues to make waves, establishing herself as a producer to watch in the future of Nollywood.
10. Toyin Abraham: The Risk-Taker Who Turns Vision into Gold
Toyin Abraham is more than just a Nollywood sweetheart—she’s a fearless force behind the camera. Known for her commercial smash hits like Ijakumo and The Ghost and the Tout, Toyin has carved a niche for herself in the Yoruba and English film sectors alike.
Her ability to bridge grassroots storytelling with big-screen magic makes her one of the most bankable and beloved filmmakers of this era. In 2025, she continues to shake tables with raw narratives, bold characters, and a fearless business mindset.
