10 Behind the Scenes Directors Who are Transforming Nollywood

Nollywood is mostly about the glitz and glamor of its famous actors, but there are several behind the scene crew who are the ones behind the beating drums. There are the real magicians behind the screen, the directors who bring these stories to life. 

Kemi Adetiba

Kemi Adetiba’s journey started with the crowd-pleaser The Wedding Party, a film that still has fans laughing. But she truly made waves with King of Boys, a powerful tale of ambition, betrayal, and power. Its sequel, King of Boys: The Return of the King, only amplified her reputation as a bold storyteller. Kemi’s work demonstrates that Nollywood is capable of depth, intensity, and layers that keep audiences hooked.

Funke Akindele

Funke Akindele is more than an actress; she’s a force in Nollywood’s creative landscape. Her blockbuster Omo Ghetto: The Saga broke records with its humor and relatable characters. Funke also brought us Your Excellency, a witty political satire, and A Tribe Called Judah, showing her versatility. On set, she’s known for pushing actors to give their best, making her a respected figure in the industry.

Kunle Afolayan

Known as Nollywood’s “culture keeper,” Kunle Afolayan blends rich Nigerian history with captivating stories. From the eerie mystery of The Figurine to the historical tension in October 1, Kunle’s works leave a lasting impact. His films like Phone Swap show his lighthearted side, but Anikulapo reaffirms his commitment to showcasing African heritage. Kunle’s ability to blend suspense, tradition, and storytelling has cemented his place as a Nollywood legend.

Kayode Kasum

Kayode Kasum knows how to pull on heartstrings and bring laughs, all in the same breath. His movie This Lady Called Life is a touching story about dreams and resilience, while Sugar Rush takes us on a heist full of comedy and action. From light-hearted moments to serious drama, Kayode’s range as a director proves that Nollywood films can capture all facets of life.

Niyi Akinmolayan

From Chief Daddy’s humor to The Set Up’s intrigue, Niyi Akinmolayan’s movies are packed with versatility. His latest film, Lisabi: The Uprising, takes us back in time to explore Nigeria’s history. Niyi has a talent for both entertaining and educating, making complex stories accessible and enjoyable for audiences.

Abba Makama

Abba Makama isn’t your typical Nollywood director, and that’s precisely his strength. His film Green White Green offers a satirical view of Nigerian youth, while The Lost Okoroshi explores Nigerian folklore with a modern twist. Abba also directed God Calling, a film about faith and self-discovery. His work is both thought-provoking and refreshing, bringing a different artistic voice to the industry.

Jade Osiberu

Jade Osiberu is a breath of fresh air, bringing unique perspectives to Nollywood. Her debut, Isoken, introduced us to a modern story of love and cultural expectations. She pushed the envelope even further with Gangs of Lagos, showing a grittier, street-level perspective rarely seen in Nigerian films. Jade’s style is authentic, capturing both the beauty and the struggles of life in Lagos.

Tope Oshin

Tope Oshin’s films are full of heart and social insight. With movies like New Money and Up North, she mixes romance, humor, and real-life issues that resonate with audiences. Tope is also skilled in television, directing popular shows such as Tinsel and Hush. Her work celebrates Nigerian stories in a way that’s both touching and thought-provoking.

Moses Inwang

Moses Inwang is a director who’s not afraid to take risks. He has tackled diverse themes, from the political thriller Alter Ego to the psychological intensity of Blood Vessel. Other notable works like Lockdown and Bad Comments show Moses’s range and his dedication to pushing boundaries in Nollywood. With each project, he proves that Nollywood is capable of bold and daring narratives.

Mildred Okwo

Mildred Okwo is the queen of mixing wit with drama. Her film The Meeting is a perfect example, blending humor with everyday challenges. She’s fearless in tackling significant themes, as seen in Oloibiri, which dives into the issues of oil exploitation. Mildred’s unique storytelling voice and willingness to address social issues make her a standout director in Nollywood.