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Nollywood Actresses: Top 30 Leading Women of the Nigerian Film Industry

As an avid Nollywood fan, I am amazed by the talent and beauty of Nigeria’s leading actresses. These women light up the screen with their captivating performances and grace. When watching a Nollywood film, you can’t take your eyes off stars like Genevieve Nnaji, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, and Rita Dominic. Their natural acting abilities allow them to fully immerse themselves in any role, drawing viewers in with emotional depth. Beyond their acting chops, Nollywood’s leading ladies have become style icons. They slay red carpets in gorgeous gowns and exude confidence. Their fashion sense and beauty often garner as much attention as their acting talents.

Although the Nigerian film industry is male-dominated behind the camera, the actresses drive box-office success and have become household names. These women have broken barriers and inspired millions with their talent. As Nollywood continues to gain worldwide popularity, it’s the leading actresses who are front and center as the faces of this burgeoning industry. I can’t wait to see what else these talented women accomplish in the years to come. Join me as I count some of the best women in Nollywood.

These are thirty leading women in Nollywood:

1. Genevieve Nnaji

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Genevieve Nnaji is at the top of the list for a reason. She is considered the queen of Nollywood. She starred in films like Sharon Stone, Last Party, and Blood Sisters. Nnaji is renowned for emotional acting and on-screen charisma in dramas such as Ije and Road to Yesterday. She has shown versatility by starring in comedies as well. Nnaji’s career highlights include winning the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress and being featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show. After two decades in the industry, she remains one of Nollywood’s most beloved leading ladies.

2. Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde

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The name Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde is well-known in Nollywood. Since starting acting in 1995, she has appeared in over three hundred movies, showing her exceptional range as an actress. Jalade-Ekeinde broke out with acclaimed dramas like Mortal Inheritance, Blood Sisters, and Last Flight to Abuja. She is a four-time winner of the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress. Her combination of talent, activism, and beauty has earned her the nickname “Omosexy.” After nearly thirty years in Nollywood, Jalade-Ekeinde remains a beloved household name in Nigeria and across Africa.

3. Rita Dominic

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With her trademark beauty and versatility, Rita Dominic has been lighting up screens since her 1998 debut in A Time to Kill. She first rose to prominence with star turns in romantic dramas like Love Street and When Love Happens. Her comic timing earned praise in romantic comedies like La Femme Anjola and Light in the Dark. She is a two-time Africa Movie Academy Award winner for her nuanced dramatic performances. After over twenty years in Nollywood, Dominic remains one of the industry’s most gifted actresses and fashion icons. Her films continue to showcase her impeccable acting skills.

4. Mercy Johnson

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With her girl-next-door charm and knack for drama, Mercy Johnson has become one of Nollywood’s most recognizable faces. Johnson got her big break in the 2004 hit melodrama The Maid and went on to star in other successful soapy films like Weeping Soul and Baby Oku in America. She has shown versatility by taking on comedy roles in movies like Dumebi the Dirty Girl and Pure Water Romance. Some of Johnson’s most acclaimed work was in historical dramas like The Legend of Inikpi and The Last Burial. After nearly twenty years of acting and producing, she remains a Nollywood fan favorite known for wearing her heart on her sleeve both on and off screen.

5. Funke Akindele-Bello

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One of the best comedy actresses in Nollywood is Funke Akindele-Bello. Her popular sitcom I Need to Know brought her initial recognition when she was named Best Actress at the first-ever Africa Movie Academy Awards. Akindele-Bello rose to fame playing the role of Jennifer in the comedy Jenifa and its follow-ups. She was excellent in other comedies such as Your Excellency, Isoken, and Moms at War. In addition, the talented comedian tackled drama in critically praised movies like October 1 and The Wedding Party. Akindele-Bello has become a crowd favorite thanks to her emotive performance and girl-next-door charm. She has established herself as one of Nollywood’s most gifted and accomplished actors, with over a hundred films to her credit.

6. Stephanie Okereke Linus

Meet an acclaimed dramatic Nollywood actress, Stephanie Okereke Linus. She first gained attention with her 2002 debut in Emotional Crack and went on to star in hit films like Dry, Games Women Play, and Through the Glass. Okereke Linus’ portrayal of a victim of sexual violence in Dry earned her the first-ever Best Actress award at the African Movie Academy Awards in 2005. In addition to acting, Okereke Linus has produced highly successful films like Dry and Nkiru. Her talent, beauty, and advocacy for women’s rights have made her an inspirational figure in Nollywood and African cinema.

7. Ini Edo

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Ini Edo rose to fame quickly in the 2000s for her talent in both comedies and drama. Her energy first charmed audiences in romantic comedies. Edo displayed versatility in acclaimed films like World Apart, I’ll Take My Chances, and In the Cupboard. She has received several Best Actress honors, including an Africa Movie Academy Award for her performance in World Apart. Some of her popular movies include Holding Hope, When Love Comes Around, and A Mother’s Heart. With her natural charisma and work ethic, Ini Edo has starred in over two hundred films and remains one of Nollywood’s most prolific actresses.

8. Kate Henshaw

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While some actresses ended their careers after a few years, Kate Henshaw’s prolific career spans over twenty-five years in Nollywood. She made her mark with her 1993 debut and went on to star in hit movies like Nine Lives, Stronger than Pain, and The Dance Hall Queen. Henshaw earned acclaim for her lead role in the political thriller The Senator. She has received Best Actress awards for films like The Prize and My Little Secret. Equally adept in comedy, she shone in Liquid and The Washerman. Other notable roles include Mother of All Girls and The Ghost and the Tout. With her captivating screen presence and dedication to her craft, Henshaw cemented her status as a Nollywood icon.

9. Nse Ikpe-Etim

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Nse Ikpe-Etim is renowned for her raw dramatic acting talent. She had her breakthrough role in the 2009 film Reloaded, earning a Best Actress nomination at the Africa Movie Academy Awards. Ikpe-Etim went on to receive critical acclaim for her titular role in the biopic Edikan. She gave a chilling performance in the horror thriller Mr. and Mrs., showcasing her versatility. Ikpe-Etim’s moving portrayal of a victim of human trafficking in Devil in Agbada earned her an Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for Best Actress. After over fifteen years of acting, she continues captivating audiences with her gripping performances on screen.

10. Tonto Dikeh

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One of the most gifted yet controversial actresses in Nollywood is Tonto Dikeh. Before starring in hits like Dirty Secret, Missing Rib, and Weeping Soul, she first caught the public eye with her appearance in the 2005 movie Holy Cross. Dikeh’s outrageously humorous performance in the parody movie Ije helped her become more well-known. Her serious roles in movies like Inside Out, Mr. and Mrs., and Ties That Bind won her recognition as well. Dikeh is well-known off-screen for her fearless demeanor and impeccable sense of style. Her openness has won her many admirers, while occasionally being controversial. She is a legend in Nollywood.

11. Dakore Egbuson-Akande

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Another Nollywood actress, Dakore Egbuson-Akande, is renowned for her mesmerizing performances in a variety of film genres. She has made a name for herself in the Nigerian film business thanks to her unquestionable talent and captivating on-screen persona. In the critically praised movie Isoken, Egbuson-Akande played a lady negotiating love and societal expectations. Her portrayals of nuanced, realistic characters in Fifty and New Money further cemented her status as one of Nollywood’s top actors.

12. Uche Jombo

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Among Nollywood’s most versatile producers and actresses is Uche Jombo. She made her cinematic debut in the 1999 blockbuster flick Visa to Hell. Jombo showed off her comedic skills in the Nollywood films Ako Na Ukwa and Hustlers. She has worked on critically acclaimed movies like Damage and Nkiru. Jombo’s versatility is seen in both comedic thrillers and dramas. High appreciation was given to her emotional performance in Dry as a sickle cell patient. Uche Jombo never ceases to astound her fans with her intriguing on-screen persona, acting prowess, and filmmaking acumen.

13. Adesua Etomi-Wellington

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Adesua Etomi-Wellington is one of the newest actresses in Nollywood. She rose to fame in 2014 with her Nollywood debut performance in Knocking on Heaven’s Door. She soon became a household name, starring in one of the industry’s highest-grossing films, The Wedding Party. Her genre range impresses in dramas like My Lovable Highlander, comedies like Moms at War, and romances like The Royal Hibiscus Hotel. Etomi-Wellington won the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for Best Actress in a Drama for her role in King of Boys. Her stunning talent and looks have quickly established her as one of Nollywood’s most sought-after leading ladies.

14. Omoni Oboli

One of Nollywood’s most accomplished directors and actresses is Omoni Oboli. Her acting career began with the TV series Superstory, in the 1990s. In the romance drama Being Mrs. Elliot, Oboli played the lead role that launched her career. Her roles in the movies Moms at War, Wives on Strike, and Love is War have brought her praise. She has also directed successful films such as Love is War, Okafor’s Law, and Wives on Strike. She took home the Best Director trophy for Moms at War. She is still a well-liked Nollywood celebrity, proving adept in front of and behind the lens.

15. Mercy Aigbe

With her stunning beauty and acting range, Mercy Aigbe has starred in over two hundred Nollywood films. She started in the early 2000s with supporting roles before getting her big break as the lead in the 2006 hit Afefe Ife. Aigbe has shined in several comedies, including Victims of the Society and Afefe Ife 2. She earned acclaim for her performances in family dramas like Owo Eje, Orugbo, and Victims. Aigbe often plays characters that confront complex societal issues. Off-screen, she is known for her exquisite fashion sense and entrepreneurial pursuits. Her longevity, spanning over twenty years, is a testament to her unwavering talent and work ethic.

16. Chika Ike

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Nollywood’s beauty queen and the most stylish and attractive actress is Chika Ike. She gained notoriety in 2005 as the lead actress in the contentious blockbuster Bless the Child. Ike quickly rose to fame in Nollywood, appearing in hits like Paradise Lost, To Love a Stranger, and The Prince and the Princess. Her performances in dramas such as Happy Ending and Mirror of Beauty won her accolades. Outside of the spotlight, Ike is renowned for her immaculate sense of style and her multiple prosperous ventures. After almost two decades in Nollywood as an actress, producer, and businesswoman, Chika Ike has established herself as a formidable, astute, and self-reliant force.

17. Regina Daniels

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Meet a woman who became famous before turning ten years old, Regina Daniels. She began acting as a child and rose to fame as a Nollywood teen star. She had her breakout role at age seven in the 2003 hit film Miracle Child. Daniels went on to appear in beloved teen movies like Forever Love, Beautiful Secret, and Royal Desire. Her pairing with popular teen actor Somadina Adinma captivated young audiences. As an adult, Daniels has transitioned to more mature roles in films like The Enemy I Know and Power of Love. She runs a successful production company and has over a hundred films to her credit.

18. Nancy Isime

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Nancy Isime is among the most captivating young actresses in Nollywood. Before making her acting debut in 2015, she first rose to stardom as an entertainment reporter. Isime later became well-known for her role in The Wedding Party, one of Nigeria’s highest-grossing movies, which allowed her to display her dramatic and humorous abilities. Isime frequently plays energetic, aspirational career women in romantic comedies and tragedies. She has established herself as an exciting talent poised for sustained success in Nollywood thanks to her genuine charisma, adaptability, and devoted fan following.

19. Bisola Aiyeola

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Bisola Aiyeola is a multi-talented actress and singer in Nollywood. Though she was already an established musician, Aiyeola first gained acting fame in 2017 as a contestant on the reality show Big Brother Naija. She quickly transitioned to acting, appearing in some of Nigeria’s biggest box office hits like Picture Perfect, Sugar Rush, and Moms at War. Aiyeola also starred in one of Netflix’s first Nigerian original films, Omo Ghetto: The Saga. She has received praise for her natural acting ability and lively on-screen presence. Equally in comedy and drama, Bisola Aiyeola’s charisma and talent have made her one of Nollywood’s most exciting new stars.

20. Ruth Kadiri

There has never been a more controversial actress than Ruth Kadiri. She is one of Nollywood’s most versatile actresses, having taken on a wide range of roles since 2005. She first gained attention with her portrayal of a controversial lesbian character in the film Ladies Men. Kadiri received acclaim in movies like Matters Arising, Over the Edge, and The American Return. She also excelled in comedies like Memory Lane and Troubled Blessings. Kadiri has also written and produced several films, like Matters of the Heart, Immortal Child, and Mama Drama. Her fearless acting and filmmaking have made her a Nollywood trailblazer.

21. Yvonne Jegede

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Yvonne Jegede is a talented Nollywood actress who has constantly impressed fans with her range. After her debut in the 2008 film Gugu the Gold, her breakout role came in the hit family drama Ties That Bind in 2011. She has shined in comedies like Alan Poza, The Stolen Bible, and New Money. Jegede also excels in dramas, receiving praise for films like The Secret She Kept, The Assassin, and Oloture. Her vivacious spirit translates effortlessly between genres. As one of Nollywood’s most versatile leading ladies, Yvonne Jegede continues to showcase her acting chops in any role she’s given.

22. Chacha Eke

As a talented comic actress and dancer, Chacha Eke became well-known in Nollywood. Her breakthrough performance came in the 2009 film Hustlers. Later, Eke starred in well-liked comedies, including University Mafia, Two Brides and a Baby, and Clap of Thunder. Her dance prowess was evident in movies such as Dance to My Beat. She has been performing for more than ten years, yet despite this, people still adore her for her on-screen attitude and ability to lighten any scene. As one of Nollywood’s most captivating comedians, Chacha Eke never ceases to amaze.

23. Destiny Etiko

Since her 2006 debut, Destiny Etiko has starred in over one hundred and fifty films, making her one of Nollywood’s most sought-after actors. Etiko rose to fame as a princess in the epic film Igodo and then starred in critically praised films such as Idemili and Udene. She frequently portrays powerful, aspirational roles with a sensual, passionate aura. Her roles in action films such as Lethal Weapon and Deadly Passion have also delighted her admirers. Destiny Etiko has established herself as a romantic lead and action star with her majestic yet elegant on-screen personality. Her beauty and daring acting choices never cease to enchant her followers.

24. Chioma Akpota

Chioma Akpota, a rising star in Nollywood, shines with her natural talent. Notable for her breakout role in Ogo’s Heart and her contribution to hits like The Wedding Party 2, she excels in romantic comedies like Picture Perfect and Kambili. Her versatility extends to the crime thriller Breaded Life. Akpota’s humility and dedication have endeared her to directors and audiences alike, establishing her as a promising talent in a short span.

25. Uche Nwaefuna

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Coming into the industry after others did not stop Uche Nwaefuna from shining in Nollywood. She is celebrated for her talent and compelling on-screen presence. Despite her recent entry into the industry, Nwaefuna has demonstrated versatility through various roles. Notably, she garnered attention for her portrayal in the popular drama Tomorrow Never Dies. Nwaefuna showcased her comedic prowess in The Bling Lagosians, her first foray into the genre. Her humility and commitment to authenticity in acting have endeared her to audiences, solidifying her status as one of Nollywood’s most promising talents.

26. Chioma Nwaoha

Following in the legends’ footsteps is the newcomer, Chioma Nwaoha. She is a rising star in Nollywood, recognized for her acting range and on-screen charisma. Though new to the industry, Nwaoha has taken on diverse roles that showcase her talent. She made her acting debut in the hit TV series Lekki Wives before transitioning to films. She also received acclaim for her lead performance in the drama Sylvia. With both comedic and dramatic chops, Nwaoha has shone in several other movies in Nollywood. Her bubbly personality and dedication to every role make Chioma Nwaoha a refreshing presence in Nollywood. She continues to captivate fans with her gifted performances.

27. Adunni Ade

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When you are multi-talented, like Adunni Ade, the world works for you. She is a Nollywood actress, model, and TV host, taking the industry by storm. Though originally from the United States, Ade quickly became a Nollywood darling after appearing on the reality show Nigerian Idol. She had her acting breakout starring in the hit comedy 10 Days in Sun City. She often plays ambitious career women with a hidden romantic side. With her stunning looks, infectious smile, and endearing personality both on and off-screen, Adunni Ade has proven herself as an exciting American import now thriving in Nollywood.

28. Bimbo Ademoye

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Another rising star, Bimbo Ademoye, has quickly made her mark in Nollywood with her acting range and effervescent screen presence. She first captured attention by winning the Best Actress award at AMVCA 2016 for her role in the hit TV series Tinsel. Ademoye went on to shine in box office hits like The Wedding Party 2, Kasala, and Sugar Rush. She has received praise for her dramatic turns in The Women, Sylvia, and Breaded Life. With her undeniable talent and energetic personality, Bimbo Ademoye has cemented herself as one of Nollywood’s most exciting young talents.

29. Damilola Adegbite

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Damilola Adegbite is a seasoned Nollywood actress renowned for her captivating screen presence. She launched her acting career in 2008 after winning a reality talent competition. Adegbite quickly rose to prominence with her role in the hit TV series Tinsel. In films, Adegbite often portrays strong, successful women navigating careers and relationships. Her standout role in the political thriller Gone earned her an Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award nomination for Best Actress. With elegance and depth, Damilola Adegbite continues to shine in Nollywood as one of its most talented leading ladies.

30. Rachael Okonkwo

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Closing the list is the infamous Rachael Okonkwo. She is a gifted Nollywood actress who has won over audiences with her versatility and charisma. She first gained fame by starring as the lead character, Nkem, in the hit TV series Nnenda. Her standout performance in Nneka the Pretty Serpent earned her an Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for Best Actress. Equally skilled in comedy and drama, Rachael Okonkwo continues to impress fans with her warm on-screen presence and dedication to every role.

As a lifelong fan, I feel privileged to witness the incredible impact of Nollywood’s leading ladies. Their meteoric rise has inspired millions and paved the way for the Nigerian film industry’s success. These talented, glamorous, and captivating actresses continue to break barriers, and I eagerly anticipate their future achievements. They are the undisputed queens of Nollywood.