Top 10 Nollywood Movies You Must Watch This Month
Nollywood—the beating heart of African cinema—is having a moment. Over the past decade, Nigeria’s film industry has grown into one of the largest in the world, not only in terms of volume but also in cultural impact, storytelling prowess, and international recognition. From gritty social dramas to spine-tingling thrillers and hilarious comedies, Nollywood continues to captivate audiences around the world.
This month, whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to Nollywood, there’s an exciting crop of films that deserve your attention. With Netflix, Prime Video, and local cinemas curating rich Nigerian content, it’s never been easier to dive in.
Here are 10 must-watch Nollywood movies this month—a mix of recent releases, sleeper hits, and high-profile productions that define the evolving landscape of Nigerian cinema.
1. Breath of Life
Genre: Drama / Faith-Based
Where to Watch: Prime Video
Directed by BB Sasore, Breath of Life is a poignant and deeply emotional journey about second chances, faith, and personal redemption. It tells the story of a once-prominent man of God who loses everything and later finds purpose through an unlikely friendship.
The film’s performances are exceptional—particularly from Wale Ojo and Chimezie Imo. Rich in cinematography and layered in storytelling, this movie goes beyond entertainment; it provokes thought and stirs emotion. It’s no surprise that Breath of Life won big at the 2024 AMVCAs.
2. Ijogbon
Genre: Coming-of-Age / Adventure
Where to Watch: Netflix
Kunle Afolayan once again showcases his signature blend of suspense and moral complexity in Ijogbon. Set in a rural Nigerian village, the film follows four teenagers whose lives are upended after they discover a bag full of diamonds. What begins as a dream quickly spirals into a nightmare.
This movie is a brilliant fusion of coming-of-age storytelling, social commentary, and folklore. It’s one of the best examples of how Nollywood is pushing genre boundaries without losing its cultural essence.
3. A Tribe Called Judah
Genre: Comedy / Family Drama
Where to Watch: Cinemas (now on streaming platforms)
Funke Akindele strikes gold again with A Tribe Called Judah, which broke box office records as the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of all time. This family-centered film mixes humor with heartache, focusing on five brothers attempting a heist to save their dying mother.
The film’s charm lies in its relatability and the way it tackles family dynamics, sibling rivalry, and loyalty with humor and warmth. The ensemble cast—featuring Akindele herself, Timini Egbuson, and Jide Kene—delivers performances that are both memorable and magnetic.
4. Gangs of Lagos
Genre: Crime / Action
Where to Watch: Prime Video
For those craving adrenaline and raw urban drama, Gangs of Lagos is a must. Directed by Jade Osiberu, the film plunges viewers into the gritty underbelly of Lagos Island’s street gangs and explores themes of loyalty, power, and identity.
The action scenes are gripping, the pacing is relentless, and the emotional stakes are high. Tobi Bakre’s lead performance is a career-defining moment, and the production quality rivals any international crime thriller.
5. The Black Book
Genre: Action / Revenge Thriller
Where to Watch: Netflix
Imagine a Nollywood version of Taken, and you’ve got The Black Book. This revenge thriller starring Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) sees a father-turned-vigilante take on a corrupt system after his son is framed and murdered.
The film boasts slick visuals, intense action choreography, and a tight script. It’s a landmark in Nigerian action cinema and reflects Nollywood’s growing capacity to tell global stories with local flavor.
6. Over the Bridge
Genre: Psychological Drama / Mystery
Where to Watch: Cinemas
A hidden gem among recent releases, Over the Bridge explores the psychological unraveling of a corporate executive who gets caught between two worlds—the polished, capitalist Lagos and the harsh realities of its underserved communities.
This film stands out for its cinematic ambition, exploring mental health, societal inequality, and spiritual reckoning in a way rarely seen in Nollywood. It’s a haunting, thought-provoking watch that lingers long after the credits roll.
7. Afamefuna: The Journey of the Igbo Apprenticeship System
Genre: Cultural Drama / Docu-Fiction
Where to Watch: Cinemas / VOD
Afamefuna delves into the time-honored Igbo apprenticeship system—a cornerstone of southeastern Nigeria’s economic engine. The film tells the story of a young man navigating the complexities of mentorship, loyalty, and self-discovery.
A cultural treasure, Afamefuna beautifully blends fiction with anthropological insight. It’s educational, emotional, and essential for anyone interested in understanding indigenous African economic systems.
8. Orisa
Genre: Epic / Yoruba Mythology
Where to Watch: VOD Platforms
If you’re into mythology and historical epics, Orisa should be on your radar. Starring Odunlade Adekola, the film is rooted in Yoruba spiritual lore and follows the story of a mythical warrior called Orisa.
The costume design, traditional music, and storytelling are mesmerizing. It’s a proud showcase of Nigeria’s cultural heritage, told with grandeur and reverence. The movie also signals a renewed interest in indigenous African fantasy.
9. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti
Genre: Biopic / Political Drama
Where to Watch: Cinemas
A long-awaited biographical drama about one of Nigeria’s most iconic women, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti explores the life of the pioneering feminist, teacher, and mother of Fela Kuti. Directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters, the film chronicles her activism against colonial and patriarchal oppression.
This is more than a movie; it’s a history lesson, a feminist manifesto, and a celebration of legacy. In a time when young Nigerians are revisiting their roots and history, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti is both timely and powerful.
10. Something Like Gold
Genre: Romance / Drama
Where to Watch: Showmax
For fans of romance and emotional entanglements, Something Like Gold is a story about love, class, and second chances. Starring Segun Arinze and Mercy Aigbe, it brings together melodrama, social satire, and good old-fashioned romantic tension.
Though more conventional than others on this list, it captures the lush, soap-operatic side of Nollywood that fans adore. The film is beautifully shot and offers an escape into the more glamorous world of Nigerian storytelling.
Final Thoughts: A Month to Celebrate Nollywood’s Brilliance
This month’s lineup of Nollywood films is a testament to the industry’s evolution. From gritty crime thrillers to cultural dramas and historical biopics, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re watching from Lagos, London, or Los Angeles.
More importantly, these films highlight the diversity of voices, regions, and genres Nollywood now encompasses. The industry is no longer just about quantity but increasingly about quality, intention, and global relevance.
So grab some popcorn, pick a film from this list, and get immersed in the vibrant world of Nollywood. Your next favorite movie might just have Yoruba proverbs, Lagos street slang, or Igbo folklore—and that’s the beauty of it.
