5 Nollywood movies that celebrate strong women characters

From humble beginnings in the 1970s and 1980s with Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) dramas, Nollywood has grown into the second-largest film industry in the world by volume, and one of Nigeria’s biggest employers outside agriculture. 

Over the years, Nollywood has generated billions in revenue, with its productions gaining international recognition.

Yet, women have not fully reaped the benefits of this booming industry. Behind the scenes and on screen, men dominate productions, while female characters are often limited to stereotypical roles such as homemakers, caregivers, or subservient figures.

This imbalance, critics say, does not reflect Nollywood’s large female audience. “Considering that women make up 60% of the Nollywood film audience, it is important that women are represented better in films, rather than telling the story from the male gaze,” actress and producer Eku Edewor once remarked.

Despite these challenges, some Nigerian films have successfully broken away from these stereotypes, spotlighting powerful, multi-dimensional female characters. Here are five standout movies that celebrate strong women in Nollywood:

1. Lionheart (2018)

Directed by and starring Genevieve Nnaji, Lionheart made history as the first Nigerian Netflix original and the country’s first Oscar submission. The film follows Adaeze Obiagu, who takes charge of her father’s transport business, navigating challenges in a male-dominated industry with resilience and intelligence.

2. Muna (2019)

Adesua Etomi-Wellington stars as Muna, a survivor of sexual abuse and trafficking who fights back against her oppressors. The action-thriller tackles themes of child trafficking and gender-based violence, offering a rare but powerful portrayal of female strength in Nollywood.

3. King of Boys (2018)

Directed by Kemi Adetiba, this gripping political thriller features Sola Sobowale as Eniola Salami, a businesswoman whose ambition for power pits her against dangerous forces. The film remains one of Nollywood’s top-grossing productions, with Sobowale’s performance hailed as one of the industry’s finest.

4. 93 Days (2016)

Based on true events, 93 Days chronicles Nigeria’s fight against the 2014 Ebola outbreak, with Bimbo Akintola delivering a remarkable portrayal of Dr. Stella Adadevoh, the heroine whose sacrifice saved millions. The film has been screened at major international festivals, further cementing Nollywood’s global reach.

5. Wives on Strike (2016)

Written and directed by Omoni Oboli, this satirical drama tells the story of market women who withhold intimacy from their husbands to protest child marriage. While lighthearted, the film delivers a powerful commentary on harmful cultural practices and the resilience of women fighting for justice.

These films, in different ways, challenge entrenched stereotypes and broaden the narrative space for women in Nollywood. They not only entertain but also inspire, reflecting the strength and agency of Nigerian women in real life.