At Kwality Kontent, we are all about spotlighting the brightest talents and creatives shaping Nigeria’s vibrant creative scene. As Nollywood continues to reach new heights fueled by new faces and a new generation of actors changing what it means to be a Nollywood star, Kwality Kontent is zooming in on the actors whose work demands attention. From digital series to box office hits, these talents are bringing depth, authenticity, and a refreshing edge to our screens. Here are twenty Nollywood stars that you should be looking out for.
1. Mike Afolarin
Mike Afolarin’s journey from economics student at the University of Lagos to one of Nollywood’s mainstays is a testament to his dedication to the craft. After completing his secondary education at Federal Government College, Ijanikin, Lagos State, and graduating with an economics degree from UNILAG in 2016, Afolarin’s career pivot has proven rewarding. His natural charisma and screen presence caught the attention of filmmakers, leading to breakthrough roles that have established him in Nollywood.His filmography includes popular films like “Far From Home”, where he played Ishaya; “Battle on Buka Street”, as Akinzo; and the historical epic “House of Ga’a”, where he portrayed Oyemekun. The industry has taken notice, with Afolarin earning an AMVCA nomination for Best Supporting Actor in 2025, a significant achievement as he continues to prove himself as a serious contender in Nollywood.
2. Genoveva Umeh
With standout performances in Blood Sisters, Far From Home, and the AMVCA-winning Breath of Life, Genoveva Umeh is fast becoming one of Nollywood’s most prolific new actors. The Enugu-born actor’s journey into acting began in her teens, when she enrolled at the Identity School of Acting in London. Though she studied law and graduated with honours, her true passion was in acting, which she eventually returned to Nigeria to pursue full-time in 2018.The British-Nigerian actress has seamlessly moved between stage and screen, earning a 2022 AMVCA nomination for A Tune Away and clinching the Best Supporting Actress award in 2024. A graduate of the Ebonylife Creative Academy, Umeh’s career is marked by intentional choices, an unrelenting work ethic, and a clear desire to tell stories that matter. Whether she’s leading a one-woman play or holding her own in ensemble casts, Umeh’s intensity and versatility continue to distinguish her from the rest of the pack.
3. Ade Akintoba
Ade Akintoba has quietly become one of the most promising talents in contemporary Nigerian cinema with performances that resonate with both critics and audiences alike.His notable works include compelling performances in “Makemation” and “The Artifact”, projects that have allowed him to showcase his versatility and depth as an actor. What sets Akintoba apart is his methodical approach to role preparation and his ability to bring authenticity to every character he portrays.Read our exclusive interview with the actor HERE.
4. Susan Pwajok
Susan Pwajok has risen from child actor to one of Nollywood’s most exciting Gen Z talents. Born on January 15, 2003, and raised in Lagos, she began her creative journey at three years old, performing in the stage play Adaobi Is Getting Married. That early experience sparked a love for storytelling. Her first film role came in The Tunnel, where she starred alongside Nollywood veterans Patrick Doyle and Waje. But it was her appearance in Tinsel as well as Africa Magic Original Films like Night Raid, Stopping Chloe, Cover Up, and Keeping Lucy that showcased her ability and strengths.Her breakout moment arrived when she was cast as Blessing in the sitcom The Johnsons (2012), where she played the sharp-tongued teenage daughter. Since then, she has transitioned into mature roles. She played a tender, emotional lead in It Blooms in June and headlines the upcoming romantic drama A Lagos Love Story. Her journey may just be beginning, but her poise suggests she’s here for the long haul.
5. Kayode Jnr
Kayode Jnr is one of a few rising stars in Nollywood capable of delivering truly compelling performances on screen. A 2020 graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, he furthered his craft by training at the prestigious Royal Arts Academy, where he honed the technical skills that have become his trademark.His breakout performances in “Ijogbon”, “Sista”, and “Slum King” have established him as an actor capable of handling diverse genres with equal finesse. Kayode Jnr brings a maturity to his performances that belies his relatively short time in the industry.
6. Tomi Ojo
Tomi Ojo didn’t wait for a miracle. She simply Googled her way into Nollywood. From that unlikely beginning, she has charted a path defined by self-belief. The Lagos-born actress launched her career in 2018 with a role in Bovi’s comedy series Back to School on YouTube. Since then, she’s gradually built her résumé with a mix of short films, digital series, and cinema releases. Notably, she starred in Love Like Thi (Ndani TV), Best Friends, and Survivors.Her breakout role came as Rahila in Netflix’s hit young adult series Far From Home. Her performance in the series earned her widespread recognition and made her one of the standout emerging talents in Nollywood.She has also starred in a number of other acclaimed projects, including Leaked, Love Like This, Ada Omo Daddy, and Adire, where she continues to showcase her range and emotional depth on screen. With a growing portfolio that spans film, TV, and digital platforms, Tomi Ojo is steadily carving out a reputation as one of the most promising actors of her generation.
7. Shamz Garuba
From modelling to acting, Shamz Garuba is quickly establishing himself as a premier talent in Nigeria’s creative scene. The civil engineering graduate came to mainstream prominence as a result of the success of the Showmax original series “Crime and Justice Lagos”, where he played Rabiu.Since then, he has built an impressive filmography, including “Dear Diane”, “Red Circle”, and “A Night in 2005”. Garuba’s versatility and commitment to authenticity make him a standout talent constantly evolving and exploring new depths in every role.
8. Uzoamaka Power
Uzoamaka Power is an actress and screenwriter known for standout performances in MTV Shuga, Mami Wata, Juju Stories, and With Difficulty Comes Ease. Her 2023 AMVCA-nominated short film Love Language, which she also directed, marked her evolution into a multihyphenate.In 2024, she cemented her status with her AMVCA-nominated role as Ifeatu in Phoenix Fury. The film received praise for its thematic boldness and emotional intensity. Her works, which include A Night in 2005, Headless, The Weekend, and Shaping Us, have travelled film festivals from AFRIFF to BFI London to Tribeca, affirming her as one of Nigeria’s most exportable talents.
9. Mallum Arik
Mallum Arik built a formidable reputation in the online space through captivating performances in web series and short films. Since then, he has transitioned to feature films and has shown that he is an actor who is keen on consistently pushing his creative boundaries.His film debut in “The Presidency” was nothing short of spectacular, with his portrayal of Durodola Jaiyeola earning critical acclaim for its complexity and authenticity. Playing an ambitious yet conflicted character navigating political power games, Arik showcased his ability to deliver intensity and emotional nuance simultaneously. This performance has positioned him as one of Nollywood’s most promising talents, with fans praising his screen presence. Arik is poised to become a defining actor of his generation.
10. Uzoamaka Onuoha
Uzoamaka Onuoha is a powerful new force in Nollywood. With her breakout lead in Diiche, the first Nigerian Showmax Original, she stamped her presence on the Nigerian film industry. Since then, she has built a career defined by range and layered storytelling.Born in Lagos but originally from Imo State, she studied Theatre and Film Studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. She trained in screen acting at the EbonyLife Creative Academy under South African director Drikus Volschen. Since her debut in If I Am President, her filmography has expanded across short films, series, and feature-length productions. From performances in films like Penance, Swimming in a Sea of Trauma, and Finding Diana to her work in Flawsome, Visa on Arrival, and Schooled, she proves she’s not a flash-in-the-pan.In 2023, she made a splash with Agemo, a mystical feminist drama that earned her Best Female Performance at AFRIFF and a 2025 AMVCA nomination for Best Lead Actress. She also featured in A Sunday Affair, Blood Sisters, and Inside Life. She is also a trained stage actor, having starred in acclaimed plays like Folly of Men, Chapters, Emotan, and The Decision.Uzoamaka Onuoha is part of a rising wave of Nigerian actresses ushering in a deeper, more emotionally textured phase of Nollywood. And if the past few years are anything to go by, she’s just getting started.
11. Kanaga Jnr
At just 24 years old, Kalo Kanaga Emmanuel Eme, professionally known as Kanaga Jnr, represents the fresh face of Nollywood’s next generation. Born in 2000 in Abia State, Nigeria, the young actor came to mainstream prominence as part of the Big Brother Titans housemate in 2023. Since then, he has quickly made his mark in the industry with a natural talent that suggests a bright future ahead.His recent filmography includes notable appearances in “Ajosepo” (2024), with upcoming releases “Fury” (2025) and “Summer Rain” (2025) generating significant anticipation. His natural screen presence suggests a talented actor who is only going to grow. As he continues to build his portfolio, fans are eager to see how this promising talent will develop and what he’ll bring to Nigerian cinema.
12. Sharon Rotimi
Sharon Rotimi is known for her performances across television, film, and stage. She gained recognition for her role as Florence Odenigbo in the drama series Chronicles and has appeared in projects like Son of the Soil alongside Ireti Doyle, The Wives, A Tale of Two First Dates, and Finding Me.Born in Ekiti State, she is the eldest of three children. She began her academic journey studying nursing at the Ogun State School of Nursing, Ilaro, before earning a bachelor’s degree in zoology from Obafemi Awolowo University. In 2024, she co-starred in The Artefact: Stones of Fatima, an adventure feature film directed by Tolu “Lordtanner” Awobiyi, which was screened at the 13th Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).
13. Chuks Joseph
Chuks Joseph’s journey to become an accomplished Nollywood actor showcases the kind of courage that defines great performers. Born in Kaduna, Nigeria, his family had to relocate to Abia State during the early 2000s as a result of the Sharia riots. After studying microbiology at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Joseph made the bold decision to pursue his passion for acting, training at both the Royal Arts Academy and Ebonylife Creative Academy in mid-2021.His impressive filmography spans television and film, with standout performances in “Schooled”, “Dark October”, “The Origin: Madam Koi Koi”, “Leaked”, “Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story”, and “The Men’s Club: Next Gen”. His ability to seamlessly transition between different genres and platforms has made him a highly sought-after talent. Joseph represents the kind of multifaceted actor that Nollywood needs.
14. Kanyin Eros
Kanyin Eros gained recognition for her portrayal of Liya Hassan in the TV series Journey To Bloom and the title role in Ireti, a critically acclaimed film directed by filmmaker Temi Ami-Williams.Born in Lagos, Nigeria, she attended Lagoon Secondary School and earned a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree from the College of Medicine, University of Lagos. Pursuing her passion for acting, she trained at Blackbox Acting Studio and the Chicago Actors Studio.She made her debut as Caro in Caro-Lina (2021) and went on to star in The Other Wife (2022), Muri & Ko (2024), and Visa On Arrival Season 5. Her performance in Ireti was widely praised and screened at AFRIFF 2024 and the Nigerian International Film and TV Summit.Outside of her acting work, Kanyin has also received praise for her monologue series The Secret Lives of Nigerian Women, which shines a spotlight on historic Nigerian icons such as Chioma Ajunwa, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and Agbani Darego, further showcasing her commitment to telling powerful African stories.
15. Olumide Oworu
Olumide Oworu stands as both a veteran performer and a continuously evolving artist who refuses to be confined by traditional career trajectories. Born on December 11, 1994, and educated at the prestigious King’s College, Lagos, before attending Babcock University, Oworu began his journey in entertainment as a child and has successfully navigated the transition to adult roles with remarkable skill. His multifaceted talents as an actor, model, rapper, and politician demonstrate a creative versatility that few can match.Oworu’s extensive television portfolio includes iconic roles in “The Johnsons”, “Everyday People”, “The Patriot”, “The Men In Her Life”, “Hammer”, Netflix’s “Far from Home”, “Stolen Waters”, and “New Son”. His achievements include the 2014 Nollywood Revelation of the Year award and the 2015 Best of Nollywood Awards for Most Promising Actor. Now at 30, Oworu has successfully reinvented himself multiple times while maintaining relevance across different entertainment platforms. His ability to connect with audiences across generations, combined with his entrepreneurial spirit and political involvement, positions him as not just an entertainer but a cultural influencer whose impact extends far beyond the screen.
16. Funmbi Toye
Funmbi Toye’s Nollywood journey began with a leap of faith. In 2019, she was cast in her very first on-screen role, ‘Kehinde, Where’s Taiwo’, a short film by Stephanie Amata. Though she had no prior acting experience, her talent stood out. That marked the beginning of a gradual rise in the industry. Toye honed her craft further at the EbonyLife Creative Academy, graduating from the ‘Acting for Screen’ programme and winning Best Supporting Actress for her role in Na Man You Be.She played a lead role in Wintar Studio’s psychedelic short Where is Jaz? and appeared in Dare Olaitan’s Ilé Owó. She starred as Amaka in the 2025 TV drama Under the Influence and as Sheriff’s Sister in After 30. She has featured in a number of acclaimed independent and digital projects, including Husbandry Nightmare on Broadstreet and We Are the Absolute Worst: Our Divorce Fayre. She also played Sam in The Most Toasted Girl (2019–2025), a cult-favourite series among Nigeria’s digital youth audience. Her role in House of Money as Amaka Owo further positioned her as one of Nollywood’s new-generation actors to watch.
17. Iremide Adeoye
Lagos-born Iremide Adeoye is a university-trained actor who brings natural charisma to his performances. The University of Lagos graduate and proud member of Fantasticks embodies the modern Nigerian actor who seamlessly blends traditional storytelling with contemporary sensibilities.His impressive filmography includes performances in “Wura”, the biographical thriller “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti”, the Netflix original “The Origin: Madam Koi Koi”, “Her Dark Past”, and “Headless”. As he continues to build his career, Adeoye represents the kind of prepared actor who will help define the future of Nigerian cinema.
18. Toluwani George
Born in Lagos State and originally from Osun State, Toluwani George began her career in the creative industry as a model. With a solid footing in the fashion world, she later transitioned into acting. She holds a degree from the University of Ibadan.Toluwani’s breakout role came as Eve in Showmax’s hit series Wura. Her performance in the series captured the attention of audiences and critics alike, thanks to her compelling screen presence and emotional depth. The role of Eve marked her emergence as a serious acting talent and opened up more opportunities in Nollywood.While she continues to build her filmography, this standout performance has firmly positioned her as one of the fresh faces redefining Nigerian television.
19. Paul Nnadiekwe
At just 24 years old, Paul Nnadiekwe has already established himself as one of Nollywood’s most promising young talents. Born on February 29, 2000, in Lagos, Nigeria, Paul has made strides in the industry while pursuing his education at the University of the People.Nnadiekwe’s training at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) Acting Workshop, where he earned Best Actor recognition alongside four colleagues, provided him with the foundation that supports his natural talent. His filmography includes “I Do Not Come To You By Chance”, “Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story”, “The Thanksgiving” (2020), “Schooled” (2021), “The Secret Life of a Troll” (2022), “Slum King” (2023), and “The Men’s Club: New Gen” (2024). Additionally, his work as a writer, evidenced in the short film “Purple Story” (2022), which he wrote and starred in alongside Ruby Akubueze, demonstrates his multifaceted creative abilities.
20. Gbemi Akinlade
Gbemi Akinlade didn’t plan to become an actress. A medical student and model, she found herself unexpectedly pulled into Nollywood, and she’s been blazing her own trail ever since. The University of Lagos alumna got her first big break as Helena in Day of Destiny. That role introduced her to a wider audience and hinted at the range she would later display in projects like The Order of Things and Battle on Buka Street.Her growing presence on screen has been complemented by standout performances in TV series like Love Like This (Ndani TV), where she plays Maka. The role has become a fan favourite and further cemented her as one of Nollywood’s rising stars.With recent roles in Aburo and Clinically Speaking, Akinlade continues to bring charm, wit, and emotional nuance to every performance. As her filmography expands across streaming platforms and cinema, Gbemi Akinlade is proving that she’s here to stay.
