In celebration of women’s voices, visions, and victories, we spotlight the female forces transforming media production in Nigeria.
While the spotlight is often on actors, artists and brands we see on the big screen, a different group of women quietly shapes the content we see on screen. Behind the cameras, in writers’ rooms, in editing suites, and on production sets, these women drive excellence in films, TV shows and music videos.
Here are five women who control the narrative on screens from behind the camera:
Director Pink
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(@directorpink_)Praise Onyeagwalam, known professionally as Director Pink, is a Nigerian music video director, cinematographer, and film director. Although Pink initially aspired to be an actress, she has evolved into one of Nigeria’s most formidable directors. And her 2023 AFRIMMA “Best Video Director” win is a testament to that effect.
At just 25, the self-taught filmmaker has amassed millions of views with her music videos, including recent titles like Phyno and Burna Boy’s “Do I,” Larry Gaga and Theresa Onuoha’s “Obodo,” Mercy Chinwo’s “Confidence”, and several of Chike’s music videos like “Running” and “Ego Oyibo.”
Beyond music videos, she ventured into film directing with the Nigerian horror “Lady Koi Koi” in 2021, through her film company Pinkline Films.
Nora Awolowo
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Award-winning cinematographer and founder of Rixel Studios, Nora Awolowo, is the directing brainbox behind “The Order of Things,” “LISABI,” the upcoming “Red Circle” and documentaries including “Symphonies,” “Life at the Bay,” “Baby Blues” and “All Lives Matter.”
She started as a smartphone photographer and slowly built a career to the point of winning the African Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) in 2023, in the best documentary category for her work on “The Debut.”
Jade Osiberu
https://t.co/kolxvFpaS3 pic.twitter.com/eISWYxdyMr
— Jade Osiberu (@jadeosiberu) June 10, 2023
With one story at a time, Jade Osiberu is redefining modern Nollywood with projects like “Gidi Up” on YouTube, cinema hits like “Isoken” and streaming successes like “Brotherhood,” “Gangs of Lagos” and most recently “Christmas in Lagos.”
Osiberu is passionate about storytelling, and intentional about creating awareness and impacting culture. She says, “You have to tell these big stories that a lot of people can connect to while you infuse the things you want to talk about. That way you can expand peoples’ thoughts about their society.”
When Amazon Prime Video was looking to enter the Nollywood film industry, the American streaming platform collaborated with Osiberu. This collaboration birthed “Gangs of Lagos,” Amazon Prime’s first original on the continent, which entered the top three on Amazon Prime Video’s global chart. Their partnership saw Osiberu sign an exclusive three-year with Amazon Prime to create original scripted TV and movie concepts.
From studying engineering to working in the banking industry, running GTCO’s Ndani TV, and now being a filmmaker, Osiberu’s work continues to push Nollywood to new creative heights, making her a true innovator.
Anita Ashiru
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While producers and directors are often credited with shaping the narrative, the Art Director is the mastermind behind its visual identity. Art Directors bring a critical eye for detail and design expertise to the table, elevating any vision into a cohesive and captivating work of art.
Anita Ashiru, the creative force behind AA Creatives, is transforming the African entertainment landscape with her groundbreaking set designs. With a keen eye for innovation and meticulous attention to detail, she has established herself as the sought-after production designer for A-list African music artists and leading brands.
From music videos, and photo shoots to brand ads. Ashiru has worked with artists such as Davido, Falz, Simi, Adekunle Gold, Rema, Ruger, Joeboy, and Fireboy. She has also worked with brands like; Hennessy, Infinix, OPPO, and Havana Club. And in 2024, Ashiru was honoured with The Future Africa Awards prize for Creativity and Innovation.
Uche Ikejimba
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Ikejimba is a powerhouse in Nigerian reality TV production, with an impressive portfolio that includes serving as line producer for the phenomenal “Big Brother Naija” and showrunner for its highly anticipated Reunion shows, including “BBNaija: All Stars” (Season 8), which shattered records with over 1 billion votes during its 10-week run.
Furthermore, her production expertise also extends to other Africa Magic hits, including “Shoot Your Shot,” “Come Play Naija,” “Husband Material,” and “Overall Best,” solidifying her position as a leading force in African reality TV.
Through her media company, Blink Africa, Ikejimba has expanded her creative empire into drama, churning out critically acclaimed hits like “Unmarried,” “Dilemma,” and the groundbreaking “AGU” – Showmax’s inaugural original legal drama. With a diverse and impressive body of work spanning reality TV and drama, Ikejimba cements her status as a visionary creative force, effortlessly navigating multiple genres with unparalleled success.
These women are the architects of a new era in media production; one that values diversity, creativity, and innovation. As we look to the future, we’re excited to see the incredible impact they’ll continue to make – and the many doors they’ll open for those who come next.
