- The year 2024 and previous years have consistently seen the rise of actors in the Nollywood industry
- Some are usually at the forefront for their impeccable performances, with the potential to do even better
- As 2025 slowly unfolds, TheRadar curated 15 Nollywood rising stars to look out for in the year because they have the potential to take over the industry
The turnout of rising acts in the entertainment industry, especially Nollywood, is nothing new because there is an unending barrel of talent to look out for every year
Some of these actors, who started in small roles, have proved their prowess by bagging more challenging roles, keeping them on the radar of the film community. Through their consistency and acting skills, they offer the potential to explore.
For most of 2024, leading actors continued to set the pace for the industry's ‘breakouts,’ but there were also rising stars who, while following their footsteps, have stood out in their game. For 2025, TheRadar curated a list of these actors to watch out for in the year.
15 Nollywood rising stars to watch for in 2025
- Detola Jones
The Nollywood actress, singer and model Detola Jones is one exceptional talent to explore in Nollywood. I remember watching her in the Nollywood title 3 Working Days - a brief yet long-lasting appearance that drove the plot. Playing wife to Deyemi Okanlawon, Detola exhibited her flawless acting. The actress is also known for appearing in popular titles like Love Lockdown, Red Circle, and We Are Good People.
- Ekama Etim Inyang
This is another rising star in Nollywood to look out for. Ekama Inyang, who hails from Akwa Ibom, has appeared in titles like Mutual Benefits (2021), Five Days in November (2024) and Love Under Repair (2023).
- Audrey Harrison
Audrey Harrison's story is interesting. She moved from investment banking into the world of movies in 2018 after film school. The Nigerian actress and producer has played Mandy on Showmax’s popular series Wura, Vera on Africa Magic’s Glass House, and Joy on Africa Magic’s Chronicles. Audrey is also known for titles like A Heart to Love, The Real Ones, and Domination.
- Osereme Igenobor
The Nigerian actress is an award-winning pioneer of Nigerian sports, influencing the ecosystem and creating content. With her significant appearances in Nollywood, Osereme is a force to reckon with. She has been featured in several film titles, including Mothers in Love and Bella’s Blue.
- Chike Daniels
Chike Daniels is a Nollywood actor. Though he mostly appears in movies posted on YouTube, he stands out with his talent. Known for playing Lover Boy, Chike has appeared in titles like Marrying Kemen Eliiot, How I Love to be Loved, Three Dates and a Half, and A Love to Remember. You should watch out for him in 2025.
- Yetunde Barnabas
Yetunde Barnabas is a Nigerian model and actress. She initially gained recognition as the winner of the Most Beautiful Girl in Abuja in 2017. She was also crowned Miss Tourism in 2019. The beauty queen is best known for her role as Miss Pepeiye on Nigeria’s longest-running sitcom, Papa Ajasco. She is also known for Eye Mi (2024), Orisa Aiye (2024) and Ere Oran (2022).
- Adaobi Dibor
For the 2023 film, Blood Vessel, Adaobi Dibor showcased her ability to embody a role in Nollywood. The rising star also stood in Basketmouth’s recent film, A Ghetto Love Story. Her acting prowess is one to look out for in 2025.
Other rising Nollywood acts to keep on your radar in 2025 include:
- Uzoamaka Onuoha
- Genovevah Umeh
- Uzoamaka Aniunoh
- Sharon Rotimi
- Tomi Ojo
- Maggie Osuome
- Mike Afolarin
- Temi Fosudo
Did we miss anyone?
TheRadar Box Office: Ranking 10 highest-grossing Nollywood films of all time
What truly makes a box office hit film? Some might say it is popularity or story or money. Regardless, some films have cracked the code. Blending relatable storytelling, unexpected plot twists, and captivating visuals, some filmmakers have been to keep their films on the lips of viewers.
From A Tribe Called Judah, Sugar Rush, The Wedding Party, and Mailaka, TheRadar curated a full list of all the Nollywood films that have risen as the Top 10 highest-grossing films of all time in descending order.
