Nollywood movies are gearing up to dominate 2025, offering a spectacular mix of drama, action, and heartfelt stories. This year’s lineup will captivate audiences with top-notch storytelling, star-studded casts, and the creative vision of directors like Kunle Afolayan, Kemi Adetiba, and Niyi Akinmolayan. As fans eagerly await the release of these films, it’s clear that Nollywood is set to deliver unforgettable cinematic experiences.

Here’s a closer look at the most anticipated Nollywood movies coming your way in 2025:

Finding Messiah

Finding Messiah is a political music drama directed by Ghanaian Nigerian music executive, Oscar Heman-Ackah. Set in the fictional Republic of Zambay, the film introduces an ancient civilization with its own culture and language.

The cast includes Nollywood veterans Pete Edochie, Ngozi Ezeonu, Taiwo Ajayi-Lycett, Alex Usifo, and Ejike Asiegbu. Also starring are galala singer Daddy Showkey, Sunshine Rosman, Bucci Franklin, and Uzi Kwednu. This film blends drama and music, promising a unique cinematic experience.

To Kill a Monkey

To Kill a Monkey is set to be one of the most exciting series of 2025. Directed by Kemi Adetiba, it tells the story of Efemini, a man whose life takes an unexpected turn after reconnecting with an old friend. Forced into a world of cybercrime, he finds himself making choices that challenge his morals, all while trying to stay one step ahead of the consequences.

The series stars Bucci Franklin, William Benson, Stella Damasus, Bimbo Akintola, Micheal Ejoor, Chidi Mokeme, Lilian Afegbai, and Sunshine Roseman. With its gripping story and powerhouse cast, To Kill a Monkey is sure to be a must-watch in 2025.

King of Boys: The Beginning of the End

Kemi Adetiba is back at it again with King of Boys: The Beginning of the End, the much-anticipated third season. The fierce Alhaja Eniola Salami, played by Sola Sobowale, is returning to face even bigger challenges in her quest for power.

Fans can expect returning stars like Efa Iwara and Titi Kuti, along with new twists that promise to take the drama to another level. Get ready for an intense ride as this thrilling saga continues!

Recall

Recall, directed by Kunle Afolayan, premiered at AFRIFF in November 2024 and is set to make its Netflix debut in 2025. The film tells the story of Goke and Anita, a couple whose seemingly perfect relationship takes a mysterious turn, testing their trust and love in unexpected ways.

Featuring a talented cast, including Sharon Ooja, Olarotimi Michael Fakunle, Jimmy Jean-Louis, and Bimbo Akintola, Recall delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the consequences of hidden truths. Produced by KAP Motion Pictures, this psychological thriller is sure to be one of the standout releases of 2025.

77: The Festac Conspiracy

77: The Festac Conspiracy is a historical drama directed by Izu Ojukwu, set to premiere in 2025. This sequel to the hit film 76 follows Captain Joseph Dewa, played by Ramsey Nouah, as he faces the political turmoil surrounding Nigeria’s 1977 Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC ’77).

The film features an impressive cast, including Rita Dominic, Ibinabo Fiberesima, Seun Kuti, and Daniel K. Daniel. Produced by Adonis Production, 77: The Festac Conspiracy promises to be a powerful exploration of Nigeria’s rich cultural history, and the challenges faced during a turbulent period.

Blood Sisters 2

Blood Sisters returns for its much-anticipated second season on Netflix. After the shocking events of the first season, Sarah and Kemi find themselves facing even more dangerous situations. With fresh twists and new characters, the stakes are higher than ever.

Filming wrapped up in December 2024, and while the release date is yet to be announced, anticipation is already growing. This season promises to bring even more suspense, drama, and intrigue as the story unfolds. Fans of the first season won’t want to miss what’s next for Blood Sisters in 2025!

Hell Ride

Hell Ride, directed by Uche Odoh, premiered at AFRIFF in November 2024 and is set for a public release in 2025. The film follows Chimdi Abiodun, a female taxi driver in Lagos, played by Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha. Chimdi faces the challenges of caring for her ill daughter, dealing with an irresponsible husband, and stepping up as the sole breadwinner after losing her job.

With a talented cast that includes Femi Adebayo, Shalewa Ashafa, and Bolaji ‘Mr. Latin’ Amusan, Hell Ride mixes drama and comedy to highlight a woman’s resilience in the face of adversity.

Sugar Rush 2

Sugar Rush 2 is the much-awaited sequel to the 2019 hit, directed by Jade Osiberu. The Sugar Sisters—Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Bimbo Ademoye, and Bisola Aiyeola—are back, ready to take on a new set of challenges that will test their bond and resilience.

Filmed in Johannesburg, South Africa, Sugar Rush 2 brings the lively energy of Lagos and the festive spirit of “Detty December” to the screen. While the official release date is still under wraps, this comedy-drama promises to deliver more laughs, excitement, and unforgettable moments in 2025.

Headless

Headless is a psychological thriller set to premiere in 2025. Directed by Michael W. Ndiomu, the film follows a 100-year-old top killer as she faces the consequences of her past actions and the dark secrets she’s been running from.

With a talented cast delivering compelling performances, Headless promises a gripping story that delves deep into themes of guilt, redemption, and the haunting effects of a violent life. Expect high tension and intense drama, marking a bold new entry in Nollywood’s thriller genre.

Finding Me

Funke Akindele brings another captivating story to life with Finding Me. Featuring an ensemble cast that includes Shaffy Bello, Sharon Ooja, Dakore Egbuson-Akande, and Femi Adebayo, the film dives into themes of self-discovery and resilience.

Produced by Funke’s FAAN studio, this project promises the emotional depth and stellar performances her productions are known for. With a 2025 release expected, Finding Me is a Nollywood title to keep an eye on.

Wire Wire

Bolanle Austen-Peters is bringing the heat in 2025 with Wire Wire, a gripping drama that delves into the world of corporate fraud. Known for her knack for telling compelling stories, BAP teams up with a stellar cast, including Shaffy Bello, Neo Akpofure, Bisola Aiyeola, Erica Nlewedim, and Tacha.

With its sharp focus on greed, deceit, and ambition, Wire Wire promises a thrilling cinematic experience. Produced by Bolanle Austen-Peters Productions, the film is expected to premiere on Prime Video this year. Keep an eye out for this one—it’s set to spark conversations!

Over the Bridge

Over the Bridge is a psychological thriller directed by Tolu Ajayi, exploring themes of corruption and mental health in Lagos. The film follows Folarin, an investment banker, who seeks answers in a remote fishing village after his high-profile project faces setbacks.

Starring Ozzy Agu as Folarin, Segilola Ogidan as his wife Jumoke, and Paul Adams as his boss Michael, the film has garnered praise for its intricate storytelling and strong performances. Having premiered at the 31st New York African Film Festival in May 2024, Over the Bridge is a must-watch for fans of gripping drama.

Phoenix Fury

Phoenix Fury, directed by Ifeoma Chukwuogo, made waves at AFRIFF 2024, where it won Best Film at the 13th Globe Awards. The film follows Ifeatu and Ewura-Ama, two women connected by a shared past and driven by a quest for revenge.

With a stellar cast, including Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Ama K. Abebrese, Onyinye Odokoro, and Richard Mofe-Damijo, the movie dives into themes of betrayal, resilience, and healing. Shot across Nigeria and Ghana, the film’s striking visuals and powerful story promise to leave a mark when it releases in 2025.

I Do Not Come to You by Chance

I Do Not Come to You by Chance brings Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani’s award-winning novel to life. Directed by Ishaya Bako and executively produced by Genevieve Nnaji, the film follows Kingsley Ibe, a young graduate forced into the world of internet fraud to support his struggling family under the guidance of his uncle, Cash Daddy.

With its emotional depth and powerful performances, the film explores themes of family, sacrifice, and survival. After its premieres at TIFF 2023 and IFFR 2024, it’s set for release in 2025.

This Is Lagos

This Is Lagos is a drama-comedy directed by Kenneth Gyang that follows Stevo, an aspiring rapper who, after a failed heist, ends up with stolen money and finds himself tangled in the criminal underworld. As he tries to escape his past and pursue his music dreams, the film explores the gritty realities of Lagos and the choices that define one’s fate.

Starring Mike Afolarin, Gabriel Afolayan, and Kate Henshaw-Nuttal, This Is Lagos blends crime, comedy, and music to deliver an unforgettable story of ambition and survival. After being showcased at the 31st New York African Film Festival, the film is set to hit screens in 2025.

With such an exciting lineup, we can’t help but look forward to the release of these Nollywood movies. Each film promises to deliver something unique, from captivating performances to unforgettable stories. As 2025 unfolds, we eagerly anticipate the magic, drama, and thrill that these movies will bring to our screens. It’s a great time to be a Nollywood fan!