The Nigerian film industry is glowing with new stars. Nollywood is no longer limited to cinemas or DVDs. Thanks to streaming platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and Showmax, talented actors are reaching millions of viewers across Africa, Europe, and North America.
But with so many fresh faces, who are the real rising stars to watch?
This blog highlights the top Nollywood actors on the rise in 2025 — based on their streaming performance, critical acclaim, social media buzz, and impact in breakout roles. These are the names making waves and setting new standards for Nigerian storytelling.
What Makes a Nollywood Actor “Rising” in 2025?
Not every actor trending on social media qualifies as a rising star. For this list, we focused on actors who:
- Featured in high-performing titles on Netflix, Prime Video, or Showmax.
- Gained critical praise for specific roles in 2024 or 2025.
- Sparked conversation among audiences and filmmakers alike.
- Are consistent, versatile, and evolving fast.
We also used data from streaming charts (like Netflix Top 10), festival reviews, and media platforms like Pulse Nigeria, BellaNaija, and IndieWire.
Top Rising Male Nollywood Actors in 2025
1. Chimezie Imo
Chimezie’s performance in Prime Video’s Breath of Life stunned everyone. Released in late 2023, the film reached #1 on Prime Video Nigeria within its first week and stayed in the Top 5 for over 14 days.
Critics praised him as “one of the most emotionally grounded actors of his generation.” He also received a nomination at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) 2024.
Though quiet on social media, his performances do all the talking.
2. Tobi Bakre
Tobi’s transformation from reality TV to serious actor is impressive. In Gangs of Lagos, he delivered a gritty, physical performance that critics called “a raw display of passion and depth.”
The film broke records as Prime Video’s most streamed Nigerian original in 2023 (source: BusinessDay NG).
Tobi’s follow-up roles in action thrillers and dramas show that he’s more than just hype — he’s building range.
3. Efa Iwara
Efa has been quietly climbing, and 2025 feels like his breakthrough year. His role in Criminal Code (Prime Video) caught attention for its intelligent, composed delivery.
Though he hasn’t yet led a blockbuster, he’s become a go-to actor for crime, legal, and drama content. He’s also featured in high-performing Showmax titles like The Men’s Club, which still trends in South Africa and Nigeria.
Top Rising Female Nollywood Actors in 2025
1. Genoveva Umeh
She’s already becoming a household name — and she’s just getting started. After strong performances in Netflix’s Blood Sisters and Far From Home, Genoveva took on the lead in Orah (Prime Video), a revenge thriller that premiered to high ratings in Nigeria and Kenya.
Blood Sisters held a Top 10 global spot on Netflix for over a week in 2022, and Far From Home topped Nigeria’s Netflix chart multiple times in 2023 (source: Netflix Global Top 10).
In 2025, her talent and confidence are making her a face of “New Nollywood.”
2. Uzoamaka Onuoha
She may not be as famous yet, but Uzoamaka is earning deep respect from directors and fans. Her acting in Flawsome (Showmax) and First Betrayal (Netflix 2024) shows remarkable emotional range.
Critics say she brings a “stage-level command” to screen roles. Flawsome remains one of Showmax’s top-rated female-led series, and she’s now seen as a fresh, serious face for lead roles in thrillers and dramas.
3. Omowunmi Dada
Omowunmi is a brilliant mix of experience and freshness. While she’s acted for years, her recent role in Elesin Oba (Netflix) helped international audiences see her range. In 2025, she starred in the historical series Makalawa (Prime Video), which became one of the top 3 most-watched Nigerian period dramas by Q2 2025 ([source: Prime Video Africa Data Report, April 2025]).
She’s also very active in the theatre space, which enhances her credibility and adds to her versatility.
Honourable Mentions
Not quite breakout yet — but very close:
Jidekene Achufusi — Known for Living in Bondage, he continues to earn praise in 2025 with strong supporting roles on Prime Video.
Ruby Okezie — Gaining attention in romantic drama circles. Expected to lead her first Netflix original by Q3 2025.
Mike Afolarin — Star of Far From Home, now working on a cross-continent crime series for Amazon.
Why These Actors Stand Out
Nollywood has become a pan-African and global industry, and these rising actors are leading that movement.
They reflect the next generation of storytelling:
- Young, sharp, and versatile.
- Comfortable with traditional and experimental roles.
- Able to carry films that trend across Africa and beyond.
More importantly, they’re reshaping how audiences engage with Nigerian content.
Final Thoughts
These rising Nollywood actors aren’t just talented — they’re the new voices of African cinema.
With streaming platforms giving them a global stage, and audiences demanding richer stories, it’s the perfect time for them to shine.
Whether you’re a Nollywood fan or just starting to explore, keep your eyes on these names. Their best is still to come.
