We all know Nollywood’s blockbuster movies, and rarely do we meet the directors often regarded as the unsung heroes behind the amazing movies on its screens, streaming platforms, and theaters.
To this end, film production and distribution platform FilmOne Entertainment (Nigeria), published a list of Nigerian directors behind the highest-grossing Nollywood films released in 2022.
Ten Nollywood film directors including Tijani Adebayo, Loukman Ali, Tope Adebayo and Funke Akindele are said to have directed the highest-grossing Nollywood films of 2022.
Tijani Adebayo
At number one is Tijani Adebayo, a seasoned producer. He tops the list with King of thieves and Ijakumo, who collected a total of N424m.
The 48-year-old producer is the executive director of Adebayo Tijani films. He is known for his films Iranse Aje in 2007 and Omo Elemosho in 2013.
Tijani Adebayo Lockman Ali
The Ugandan cinematographer, screenwriter and film director ranked second for his roles in the film ‘Brotherhood’ which earned more than N328m.
The producer, who is also a graphic designer, is known for his other films, including The Girl in a Yellow Jumper, The Blind Date, and Sixteen Rounds.
loukman ali
He is known for frequently working with actor Michael Wawuyo Jr. and filmmaker Usama Mukwaya.
top adebayo
At number three, the ‘Asiri Owo’ director enters with N320m for King of Thieves.
The director has more than 16 movies in his film career including 2011 hit film ‘Jelili’, Iran mi, President Kuti and Kinni Igbeyawo among others.
top adebayo
In 2022 he also directed the film ‘Inside life’.
Funke Akindele
Nollywood actress Funke Akindele ranks number four with current hit film ‘Battle on Buka Street’ with N291m
Akindele starred in the comedy I Need to Know from 1998 to 2002 and in 2009. Her role in the movie ‘Jenifa’ brought her fame.
Funke Akindele
She is currently an aspiring candidate for Lieutenant Governor for Lagos State under the People’s Democratic Party.
tobi makinde
Tobi Makinde also shares fourth place with Funke Akindele as co-director of Battle of Buka Street.
The Nollywood actor and content producer is popularly known for playing the role of ‘Timini’ in Funke Akindele’s popular comedy series – ‘Jenifa’s Diary’.
steve sodiya
Steve Sodiya ranked fifth for his role in ‘Ijakumo’ with N104m. The director was primarily known as a publisher who has been active since 2002.
Dimeji Ajibolá
Dimeji Ajibola came sixth for directing the film ‘Passport’ with N86m.
Dimeji started out as an animator in the early years of his career and immediately became an industry darling.
Esteban Biodun
As the second woman on the list, Biodun Stephen achieved the seventh position with two films, The Wild Flower and A simple lie.
Both films totaled N75m.
Kevin Luther Apaá
Kevin Luther Apaa arrived at eight with the movie Dinner at my Place with N54m.
The writer-producer is also known for his movie Meeting funmi’s Parents. He also makes short films.
Fijin Gambo
Fiyin Gambo ranks 9th with the movie ‘Blood Pact’ in N43m.
Fiyin, who is one of Nigeria’s youngest filmmakers, is also the CEO of Cliq Media and Creative Director of Redot agency.
uyo yuo adia
Last but not least, Nollywood actress and film director Uyoyuo Adia for her directing role in the film ‘Hey you’.
She is known for her roles in Charge and Bail and The Session.
