Top Nigerian movies released in 2025 include My Father’s Shadow (Akinola Davies Jr.), Makemation (Michael Akinrogunde), Ijakumo: The Born Again Stripper 2 (Toyin Abraham), Battle on Buka Street 2 (Funke Akindele), and The King’s Daughters. These films showcase Nollywood’s diversity — from poignant dramas and AI‑themed sci‑fi to comedies and thrillers Pulse Nigeria dailymediang.com moneymentor.com.ng.
The Big Picture: What Changed in 2025
Global Recognition: My Father’s Shadow became Nigeria’s first official selection at the Cannes Film Festival.
Tech & Sci‑Fi: Makemation broke ground as Africa’s first AI‑themed feature film.
Star Power: Toyin Abraham and Funke Akindele continued their rivalry with blockbuster sequels.
Genre Diversity: From historical epics to comedies, Nollywood catered to every audience.
Streaming Expansion: Platforms like Netflix and Prime Video expanded Nollywood’s global reach.
Major Nigerian Releases in 2025
Title | Director | Notes |
|---|---|---|
My Father’s Shadow | Akinola Davies Jr. | Cannes‑selected drama set in 1993 Lagos moneymentor.com.ng |
Makemation | Michael Akinrogunde | Africa’s first AI‑themed feature film moneymentor.com.ng |
Ijakumo 2 | Toyin Abraham | Sequel to The Born Again Stripper, star‑studded cast Pulse Nigeria |
Battle on Buka Street 2 | Funke Akindele | Comedy‑drama sequel, box office contender Pulse Nigeria |
The King’s Daughters | Bolanle Austen‑Peters | Historical epic, female‑driven narrative dailymediang.com |
The Last Ritual | Kunle Afolayan | Thriller exploring Nigerian folklore dailymediang.com |
Love & Lagos | Kemi Adetiba | Romantic drama, Netflix release dailymediang.com |
Trends Defining 2025 Nollywood
1. International Breakthroughs
My Father’s Shadow marked a milestone, showing Nollywood can compete at Cannes.
2. Tech‑Driven Storytelling
Makemation introduced AI themes, reflecting Nigeria’s growing interest in technology.
3. Star Rivalries
Toyin Abraham and Funke Akindele continued to dominate box offices with sequels.
4. Historical & Cultural Narratives
Films like The King’s Daughters and The Last Ritual explored Nigerian heritage.
5. Streaming Power
Netflix and Prime Video amplified Nollywood’s global reach, making Nigerian films accessible worldwide.
Expanded Summary Table
Category | Representative Films (2025) | Defining Features |
|---|---|---|
Global Recognition | My Father’s Shadow | Cannes selection, cultural depth |
Tech & Sci‑Fi | Makemation | AI‑themed, groundbreaking |
Comedy Blockbusters | Battle on Buka Street 2, Ijakumo 2 | Star power, box office hits |
Historical Epics | The King’s Daughters, The Last Ritual | Heritage, folklore |
Romantic Dramas | Love & Lagos | Streaming success, modern themes |
Final Thoughts
2025 proved that Nollywood is no longer just Africa’s biggest film industry — it’s a global contender. With films like My Father’s Shadow breaking into Cannes, Makemation pioneering sci‑fi, and star‑driven sequels dominating local cinemas, Nigerian cinema showcased its ability to balance artistry, innovation, and commercial appeal.
The takeaway: 2025 was the year Nollywood cemented its place on the global stage while staying true to its cultural roots.
