In Nigeria’s vibrant entertainment sector, female producers are playing a pivotal role in transforming the movie industry. Nollywood, renowned as the world’s second-largest film producer, has been a significant contributor to the nation’s economy, with an estimated worth of $6.4 billion as of 2021.
Annually, it churns out over 2,000 productions, with strategic collaborations with global streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Showmax. These partnerships have enabled Nollywood to showcase its rich culture and values on a global stage.
As we celebrate Women’s Month and International Women’s Day, it’s crucial to highlight the contributions of Nigeria’s exemplary female producers. They are not just catalysts for inclusion but also agents of growth within the dynamic Nollywood industry. Here’s a countdown of the top female producers who are making waves in Nollywood:
Emem Isong
Emem Isong is a veteran in Nollywood, with about 25 years of dedicated service to championing women’s rights through impactful storytelling. Her movie “Bursting Out” attracted a sold-out audience at the Odion Cinemas in London. Emem has collaborated on documentaries for organizations like Action Health Incorporated (AHI) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNPF), empowering marginalized adolescent girls in Lagos. She has received numerous awards, including the African Film Leadership Award at The African Film Festival (TAFF) in Dallas.
Biodun Stephen
Biodun Stephen is known for her romantic drama and comedy films, often drawing inspiration from the main characters’ names. She began her filmmaking career with “The Visit,” which received nominations at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards. Biodun has co-produced “Breaded Life” and directed “Sista,” showcasing her storytelling skills.
Kemi Adetiba
Kemi Adetiba, known as the “Bruce Lee of visuals,” has made her mark as a filmmaker, television director, and music video director. Her film “The Wedding Party” premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and broke box office records by raking in over N3.5 billion. Kemi’s web documentary series “King Women” mentors and inspires young women. Her political thriller “King of Boys” and the upcoming Netflix series “To Kill A Monkey” showcase her storytelling prowess.
Mo Abudu
Mo Abudu, recognized by Forbes as one of the most influential women in global media, has made significant strides in Nollywood. As the CEO of EbonyLife TV, she has been instrumental in fostering partnerships with industry giants like Sony Pictures Television, AMC Networks, and Netflix. Her leadership has enabled EbonyLife TV to expand its reach to over 49 countries, making it a major player in the media landscape. The groundbreaking deal with Netflix marked the first time an African media company entered into a multi-title film and TV agreement with the streaming giant.
Funke Akindele
Funke Akindele, also known as Jenifa, is a prominent figure in Nollywood. She gained acclaim for her role in the sitcom “I Need to Know” and the movie “Jenifa.” Her series “Jenifa’s Diary” has earned her multiple awards. Funke made history as the first Nigerian female director to surpass a billion naira at the Nigerian box office with “A Tribe Called Judah.” Her films “Omo Ghetto the Saga” and “Battle on Buka Street” have also been top-grossing movies in Nigeria.
Mary Njoku
Mary Njoku has been a prominent figure in Nollywood for nearly two decades. She founded ROK, a digital media company operating four TV stations, and ROK Studios, which produces content for IrokoTV. Mary’s transition from on-screen roles to behind-the-scenes executive has been instrumental in shaping African content for the streaming age.
Toyin Abraham
Toyin Abraham has been a stalwart in Nollywood for over two decades. Her films, including “Ijakumo – The Born Again Stripper” and “Malaika,” have been box office hits. Toyin’s success with “Fate of Alakada,” “Alakada Reloaded,” “Seven and a Half Dates,” and “The Ghost and the Tout” showcase her versatility as a producer and director.
Jade Osiberu
Jadesola Osiberu, founder of Greoh Studios, transitioned from a software development career to writing, directing, and producing movies. Her films, including “Isoken,” “Sugar Rush,” and “Brotherhood,” have gained acclaim. Jade’s three-year deal with Amazon to develop original scripted TV series and feature films positions her as a key player in global storytelling.
Bolanle Austen-Peters
Bolanle Austen-Peters, a lawyer, acclaimed movie and theatre director/producer, and cultural entrepreneur, has been recognized by CNN as the “woman pioneering theatre in Nigeria.” She is the founder of BAP Productions and Terra Kulture, an arts and culture centre in Lagos. Bolanle’s contributions to the arts have been acknowledged by Forbes Afrique, and she has founded Terra Academy for the Arts in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation.
Tope Oshin
Tope Oshin, recognized as one of OkayAfrica’s Okay100 Women, has produced films like “Up North” and directed numerous prominent drama series. Her directorial credits include “New Money,” “Journey To Self,” and “UpNorth.” Tope’s role as ShowRunner, Producer, and Lead Director of MTV Shuga Naija 4 has solidified her status as a highly decorated filmmaker.
Ruth Kadiri
Ruth Kadiri, known as the Queen of YouTube Nollywood, has made significant contributions as a screenwriter and producer. Her films, including “Mad Wife,” “Married,” and “Diary of a Pregnant Wife,” showcase her storytelling skills. Ruth’s ability to craft compelling scripts has earned her widespread recognition in the industry.
Omoni Oboli
Omoni Oboli, a seasoned actress and trained digital filmmaker, has made her mark with screenplays like ‘Fatal Imagination,’ ‘Being Mrs Elliott,’ ‘The First Lady,’ and ‘Wives on Strike.’ Her awards include Best Actress at the Los Angeles Movie Awards and the Harlem International Film Festival. Omoni’s success with “Moms at War” and her YouTube channel, Omoni Oboli TV, highlight her impact on Nollywood.
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