Nollywood has no shortage of talented actresses, but what makes a performer stand out in the hearts of movie lovers? Is it their ability to embody a character so seamlessly that they disappear into the role? Or is it the emotional connection they create with the audience? To find out, we spoke to five Nollywood enthusiasts who shared their favourite Nigerian actresses and what makes them unforgettable.
Akinade Peter: Funke Akindele’s Heartfelt Performance
For many fans, Funke Akindele’s versatility and depth set her apart. Akinade Peter highlights her performance in ‘Maami’, where she played a struggling single mother raising her son, Kashimawo, who eventually becomes a football star.
“Funke Akindele was amazing in ‘Maami.’ She played a struggling single mom with so much heart, raising her son Kashimawo, who grows up to be a football star. She totally nailed the role.”
Akindele’s ability to bring warmth and authenticity to her roles has endeared her to audiences for years, making her one of Nollywood’s most beloved stars.
David Ojo: Funke Akindele’s Energy and Humor
Another fan, David Ojo, praises Akindele for her comedic timing and the energy she brings to every performance. From her early days in Jenifa to her long-running series ‘Jenifa’s Diary,’ she has consistently entertained audiences with her unique charm.
“I like her because of the energy and life she brings into every role. She’s very funny too. I have been her fan since childhood, and she cracks me up every time. Her role in ‘Jenifa’s Diary’ cemented my love for her.”
Her ability to make audiences laugh while still delivering strong, emotionally engaging performances is what keeps fans coming back.
Hairat Balogun: Sola Sobowale’s Deeply Moving Performances
Sola Sobowale is another powerhouse in Nollywood, known for her ability to completely immerse herself in her characters. Hairat Balogun was particularly moved by her performance in ‘Ohun Ọkọ́ Sọmídà,’ a film that showcased her emotional range and made her weep.
“She plays her roles so well that one would believe she’d experienced the scenario many times in reality before the acting. The movie ‘Ohun Ọkọ́ Sọmídà’ carved a place for her in my heart. She made me cry so much while watching the movie, and I know it only takes talent to be able to do that to your viewers.”
From ‘King of Boys’ to ‘The Wedding Party’, Sobowale’s commanding screen presence and ability to tap into raw emotions have made her a Nollywood icon.
Zainab Nadaguye: The Emotional Depth of Kehinde Bankole, Nse Ikpe-Etim, and Uche Montana
For Zainab Nadaguye, a trio of actresses—Kehinde Bankole, Nse Ikpe-Etim, and Uche Montana—stand out for their exceptional line delivery and natural composure. She particularly admires Bankole, whom she has followed since her early career.
“The main reason is the way they deliver their lines. It’s like I can feel the emotions through their words. Their composurealso. For Kehinde Bankole, way back from the Superstory era to ‘Sista’ currently, I try as much as possible to watch all her movies.”
These actresses have a way of drawing audiences in, making every scene feel real and deeply affecting.
Esther Ipadeola: Genoveva Umeh, Ini Dima-Okojie, and Kehinde Bankole’s Authenticity
Authenticity is a crucial trait in any actor, and for Esther Ipadeola, Genoveva Umeh, Ini Dima-Okojie, and Kehinde Bankole exemplify it perfectly. She was particularly impressed by Umeh’s performance in ‘Breath of Life’, Bankole’s in ‘Sista’, and various other projects.
“I believe them when they are acting; it feels real. For Kehinde Bankole, ‘Sista’ really did it for me. For Genoveva Umeh, it was ‘Breath of Life’, and for Ini Dima-Okojie, it’s not one thing—everything she has done has always been convincing.”
Across generations, Nollywood actresses have shaped the industry, bringing stories to life with passion and skill. Whether through humour intensity, or raw emotional depth, these performers leave lasting impressions on their audiences. The responses from these Nollyphiles show that great acting is about more than just delivering lines—it’s about creating moments that resonate and performances that linger.
