Some Nollywood filmmakers are quietly altering the world of African cinema. While performers frequently take the spotlight, the actual magic originates in the imaginations and notebooks of screenwriters.
These imaginative architects have not only enriched Nollywood with various narratives, but they have also set records that will be heard far beyond the African continent.
From captivating dramas to uplifting comedies, the screenwriters on our list have created films that have shattered records and boundaries, yet their personal tales may not be familiar to you.
1. Dami Elebe
Dami Elebe, widely dubbed as “the queen of web series,” has played a crucial role in bringing young adult storytelling to Nigerian screens. Dami, who worked on Netflix’s first Nigerian young adult series and a number of successful films including “Up North,” creates settings that fascinate and engage, making her a popular figure in current Nollywood storytelling.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
