Kunle Afolayan

**Kunle Afolayan** (born 30 September 1975) is a Nigerian actor, film director, and producer widely regarded as one of the most prominent figures in contemporary Nigerian cinema, often referred to as New Nollywood. He is known for directing and producing critically acclaimed films that showcase African culture and narratives on a global scale. Afolayan is the CEO of Golden Effects Pictures, a film and production company incorporated in 2005.Early Life and Education Kunle Afolayan was born on 30 September 1975, in Ebute Metta, Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria. He is of Igbomina-Yoruba descent and hails from Kwara State. He is part of a prominent lineage in Nigerian arts; his father was the celebrated theatre and film director/producer Adeyemi Josiah Afolayan, popularly known as "Ade Love." His mother, Adeola Afolayan, also worked in the theatre. Kunle has four siblings who are also actors or involved in film, including Gabriel Afolayan, Aremu Afolayan, and Moji Afolayan. Afolayan completed his primary education at Nigerian Model Primary School and attended Federal Government College for his secondary education, both in Lagos. He later obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Lagos. Demonstrating a commitment to professional filmmaking, he pursued further studies in 2005, acquiring a diploma in digital filmmaking from the New York Film Academy.Career Progression and Achievements Afolayan began his career as an actor in 1999, featuring in Tunde Kelani's political drama, *Saworoide*. Although he initially worked in a bank, he transitioned fully to filmmaking after receiving professional training. In 2006, he made his directorial debut with the supernatural thriller *Irapada (Redemption)*. This film garnered significant recognition, winning the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Film in an African Language. His career is characterized by films with high production value, focusing on intricate storytelling and technical excellence, setting him apart in the Nigerian film industry. Afolayan's notable achievement includes consistently producing films that gain international acclaim and box office success in Nigeria. He has been instrumental in raising the quality and commercial viability of Nigerian cinema.Notable Works and Current Status Kunle Afolayan's body of work includes some of the most respected Nigerian films of the 21st century. His film *The Figurine: Araromire* (2009) won five major awards at the African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA). Other notable works include the social commentary film *Phone Swap*, *October 1* (2014), and *The CEO*. These films often blend genres, including drama, thriller, and period pieces, earning him recognition as a versatile and meticulous filmmaker. He continues to be active as an actor, director, and producer, consistently releasing films through his production company, Golden Effects Pictures. Afolayan is currently recognized as one of the leading visionaries in Nollywood, pushing the boundaries of Nigerian filmmaking while preserving and promoting African narratives.