7 Nollywood Screenwriters with Record-Breaking Films You Didn’t Know

In Nollywood, some storytellers are quietly reshaping the landscape of African cinema. While actors often capture the limelight, the true magic begins in the minds and on the notepads of screenwriters. 

These architects of imagination have not only enriched Nollywood with diverse narratives but have also set records that echo beyond the African continent. 

From riveting dramas to heartwarming comedies, the screenwriters on our list have crafted films that have broken records and boundaries, yet their personal stories might not be as familiar to you. 

Dami Elebe

Dami Elebe, known affectionately as the queen of web series, has been a pivotal force in bringing young adult narratives to Nigerian screens. With a hand in Netflix’s first Nigerian young adult series and a string of successful films like “Up North,” Dami crafts worlds that captivate and engage, making her a beloved figure in modern Nollywood storytelling. 

Fatimah Binta Gimsay

Fatimah Binta Gimsay brings the streets of Nigeria to the silver screen with a flair for realism and emotional depth. Her directorial debut, “Alli Eid Dinner,” and her work on series like “MTV Shuga 5” highlight her skill in creating compelling, grounded stories that speak to the Nigerian experience.

Abdul Tijani-Ahmed

Abdul Tijani-Ahmed is a testament to versatility in Nollywood. As a writer, producer, and actor, he has consistently defied categorization, bringing to life films like “Brotherhood” and “Ricordi.” His works traverse various themes and genres, making each project a unique piece of art. 

Ifeanyi Barbara Chidi

With over 50,000 minutes of television to her credit, Ifeanyi Barbara Chidi is a stalwart of Nollywood drama. Her projects, including “Ajoche” and the groundbreaking “Diiche,” showcase her prowess in crafting sprawling narratives that are both intimate and grand. 

Emmanuel ‘Mannie’ Oiseomaye

Emmanuel Oiseomaye, known for his deep dives into human emotions and relationships, won the 2022 AMVCA for Best Writer. His works, like “Reach” and “A Simple Lie,” are studies of the complexity of everyday life, delivered with a narrative intensity that grips and doesn’t let go. 

Toluwani Obayan Osibe

Toluwani Obayan’s screenplays, including “This Lady Called Life” and “Ponzi,” are celebrated for their emotional resonance and deep human connection. Winning the 2020 Best of Nollywood Award for Best Screenplay, she crafts stories that are not only engaging but also mirror the real-life challenges and triumphs of her viewers. 

Bunmi Ajakaiye

As the PRO of the Screenwriters Guild of Nigeria and a force behind films like “The Black Book,” Bunmi Ajakaiye is a trailblazer in Nollywood. Her work spans humorous tales and serious dramas, each imbued with her unique voice and perspective.