Top 10 Nollywood actors that shaped 2025

The year 2025 was a memorable one for filmmakers, actors and industry players in Nollywood. From some making history in Nigeria and in Africa, to some being recognised and appreciated globally, Nollywood actors showed up and out in 2025, leaving no stones unturned.

Here are the Top 10 Nollywood actors that shaped 2025:

1. Funke Akindele

Known as a cultural force, Funke Akindele remains one of Nollywood’s most impactful stars in 2025. Her continued success with franchise films and commercially strong releases has kept her at the top of the industry, cementing her place as one of the most bankable actresses of the 2020s.

2. Odunlade Adekola

A reliable force in both Yoruba and pan-Nigerian cinema, Odunlade Adekola’s roles in major 2025 hits like Gingerrr and Labake Olododo brought his signature physical comedy and charismatic presence to audiences nationwide.

3. Deyemi Okanlawon

Often regarded as a versatile male lead, Deyemi delivered some of his most memorable 2025 performances in films like Hakeem: Seeking Justice and The Herd, blending dramatic depth with thrilling action, a combination that made him one of the year’s most talked-about performers.

4. Timini Egbuson.

From action blockbusters to emotional dramas, Timini Egbuson demonstrated remarkable range in 2025. His role in the smash hit Gingerrr and repeated high-profile castings solidified him as one of Nollywood’s breakout stars of the year.

5. Lateef Adedimeji.

Lateef’s constant portrayal of complex historical and dramatic protagonists in films like Lisabi: A Legend Is Born and Gingerrr showed his ability to carry big roles with nuance and energy, earning both commercial and critical acclaim.

6. Wumi Toriola.

Wumi Toriola was central to Gingerrr’s massive box-office success, becoming one of Nollywood’s foremost leads in female-driven cinema for 2025 and proving that women can headline multimillion-naira commercial hits.

7. Bisola Aiyeola.

Bisola’s work in Gingerrr cemented her position as one of the defining faces of Nollywood in 2025. Her charismatic presence and dynamic performance helped drive massive ticket sales and increase her profile across Africa.

8. Omoni Oboli

Awarded as the YouTube content creator of the year, Omoni Oboli has been a powerhouse in the Nollywood industry, making moves with her filmmaking and directing prowess. Her YouTube sequel; Love in every word, had captivated and inspired.

9. Bukky Wright.

As a seasoned performer, Bukky Wright brought gravitas and experience to projects like Red Circle and other hit films this year, reminding audiences that Nollywood’s legends still shape its biggest stories.

10. Kunle Remi.

Kunle Remi continued to impress with strong performances in both big-screen and streaming releases such as The Herd. His blend of intensity and versatility put him among Nollywood’s most promising young leading men of 2025.

While actors like Funke Akindele, Odunlade Adekola, and Wumi Toriola drew millions, pushing Nollywood’s commercial successes to new heights. Other actors like Timini Egbuson, Bisola Aiyeola, and Kunle Remi represent Nollywood’s next generation bringing fresh energy, social media buzz, and crossover appeal to younger fans across Africa and the diaspora.