NaijNaira
Nollywood is bursting with new talent, and 2025 is already shaping up to be a breakout year for several fresh faces in the industry. These actors are steadily building careers based on talent, range, and strong performances in film and television.
Top 10 Rising Nollywood Actors to Watch
Meet the top 10 rising Nollywood actors gaining fame in 2025. These fast-rising Nigerian stars are dominating Nollywood with standout roles in film, TV, and streaming platforms.
1Chidi Dike
Chidi Dike has quietly built a name for himself through layered performances in both film and television. After stepping into the limelight with The Last Dance in 2013, he’s continued to impress with standout roles in Better Half and The Cartel.
His ability to shift between romantic leads and complex characters has made him one of the most promising actors of his generation. With each role, Chidi continues to draw attention from producers and fans alike.
2Uche Montana
Uche Montana first grabbed viewers’ attention in 2015 with her breakout performance in Poison Ivy. Since then, her strong screen presence and ability to carry emotionally charged roles have kept her in demand.
She’s delivered compelling performances in films like Love in a Pandemic and The Razz Guy. Her steady rise in Nollywood points to a career worth watching closely in the coming year.
3Chike Daniels
Chike Daniels stands out as both an actor and filmmaker with an eye for emotionally grounded storytelling. His role in Three Dates and a Half put him on the radar of Nollywood insiders in 2023.
He’s also been praised for his work in The Therapist and Unroyal, projects that have benefited from his ability to balance intensity with nuance. Chike’s creative approach behind the scenes only adds to his rising status.
4Sandra Okunzuwa
Sandra Okunzuwa has made a strong impression through her diverse roles in Nollywood’s fast-evolving landscape. She stepped into public recognition with Blind Spot in 2018, playing Ekemini with striking depth.
Her performances in Dear Brother and Pure have cemented her as one of the most watchable talents on screen today. Sandra also appears among 10 Nigerian celebs who defy aging and look younger than their age, adding another feather to her public appeal.
5Yetunde Barnabas
Yetunde Barnabas turned heads with her performance as Miss Pepeye in Papa Ajasco, a role that remains memorable for many viewers. But she didn’t stop there—her work in Omo Ghetto: The Saga and The Cleanser proved she could hold her own in feature films.
Her blend of model looks and genuine talent makes her a standout in every production she joins. Yetunde is clearly carving out a space for herself in Nollywood’s next wave.
6Temi Fosudo
Temi Fosudo’s deep roots in theatre and film have earned him respect both on and off screen. His performance in House of Ga’a, a historical drama released in 2024, displayed his range and command of character.
Playing Aremo Labisi in a film centered on the 18th-century Oyo Empire, he brought historical storytelling into a contemporary light. With growing recognition, Temi is becoming a significant figure in both acting and directing circles.
7Tomi Ojo
Tomi Ojo found major visibility through her role in the Netflix series Far From Home, where she played the role of Rahila. The show allowed her to show emotional depth and versatility, earning her widespread praise.
She has also made a mark in The Smart Money Woman and Enakhe, confirming her range in both drama and romance. Tomi’s consistent delivery puts her among the most promising Nollywood stars heading into 2025.
8Mike Afolarin
Mike Afolarin gained prominence through his role as Ishaya in Far From Home, one of the most talked-about Nigerian series on Netflix. His performance struck a chord with many, capturing the struggle of ambition in a chaotic environment.
He’s also known for his work in Your Excellency, a political satire where he added a sharp edge to his character. With a background in photography and a sharp visual sense, Mike continues to bring a fresh perspective to the screen.
9Chimezie Imo
Chimezie Imo made a strong impression in Kambili: The Whole 30 Yards, where his charismatic presence helped elevate the romantic comedy. Since then, he’s delivered even more layered performances that push his boundaries.
His role in Breath of Life showed a different side—serious, emotionally gripping, and deeply immersive. Chimezie brings a raw energy to his roles that keeps audiences engaged, film after film.
10Uzoamaka Onuoha
Uzoamaka Onuoha gained critical recognition for her role in MTV Shuga Naija, portraying Cynthia, a relatable and impactful character. The show’s focus on social issues gave her the chance to showcase her emotional range.
She also left an impression in The Men’s Club, a drama that allowed her to move between vulnerability and strength with ease. As Uzoamaka continues to take on diverse roles, her growth as an actor is hard to ignore.
