The Nigerian film industry keeps evolving and 2025 proved to be another exciting year for Nollywood directors who brought stories to life and drew audiences to cinemas. FilmOne Entertainment recently released a list of the top ten Nollywood directors of 2025. To make the list, a director had to have directed at least one film released in 2025 that grossed over ₦20 million at the box office by 31 December 2025.

Here’s a closer look at the directors who stood out in 2025 and helped shape one of Nigeria’s most dynamic creative years.

1. Funke Akindele & Tunde Olaoye – Behind The Scenes

Leading the list is Funke Akindele alongside Tunde Olaoye for Behind The Scenes, a drama that went on to become one of the biggest Nollywood hits of the year. Co‑directed by the duo, the film talks about personal boundaries and social pressures and was distributed by FilmOne Entertainment. It became a historic box office success, reportedly grossing over ₦2.1 billion, making it one of the highest‑grossing Nigerian films ever recorded.

2 & 3. Adebayo Tijani & Tope Adebayo – Ori: Rebirth, Abaniste: The Ancestor, Warlord: Olori Ogun, Her Excellency

Adebayo Tijani and Tope Adebayo also made the list with multiple strong releases spanning genres. Their involvement in films such as Ori: Rebirth and Her Excellency showcased versatility and deep storytelling that resonated with audiences throughout the year.

4. Yemi Morafa – Gingerrr

Known for his unique style and fresh voice, Yemi Morafa earned a place on the list with Gingerrr. The film’s success added to his profile as a director who blends commercial appeal with creative flair.

5. Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi – Oversabi Aunty

Celebrated actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham delivered Oversabi Aunty, a comedic take that delighted audiences and proved her strength behind the camera. Her presence on the list highlights how multi‑talented Nollywood stars are shaping stories on and off screen.

6. Kayode Kasum – Reel Love, Serpent Gift

Director Kayode Kasum followed up a string of successful films with Reel Love and Serpent Gift; titles that continued his reputation for quality entertainment and commercial success.

7. Muyiwa Ademola – Ori: The Rebirth

Veteran actor‑director Muyiwa Ademola added depth to the roster with Ori: The Rebirth, demonstrating enduring relevance in an industry driven by innovation and audience engagement.

8. Biodun Stephen – Labake Olododo, Asoebi Diaries

Biodun Stephen continued to make waves with projects that blend relatable themes and strong character work. Asoebi Diaries and Labake Olododo both contributed to her place as a director whose films consistently performed well.

9. Adeoluwa Owu – Owambe Thieves, The Benefactor

Emerging director Adeoluwa Owu rounded out the list with films that pushed genre boundaries and drew solid audience numbers, reflecting Nollywood’s expanding creative talent pool.

10. Daniel Etim – The Herd

Finally, Daniel Etim earned his place with The Herd, his directorial debut. The film’s strong performance marked a major milestone in his career and secured his spot among the most commercially successful directors of 2025.

This list shows Nollywood is not just releasing films, it’s crafting stories that connect, entertain, and generate real box office success. From established voices like Funke Akindele to newer talents like Daniel Etim, 2025 was a year where directors made audiences laugh, cry, and think; proving once again that Nigeria’s film industry is one of Africa’s most dynamic creative forces.