People

Wumi Toriola is a prominent Nigerian actress, filmmaker, producer, and entrepreneur primarily known for her significant contributions to the Yoruba-language sector of the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood. She is recognized for her versatility, often excelling in dramatic and emotional roles. Early Life and Education Wumi Toriola was born on July 11, 1988, in Lagos, Nigeria. She is a native of Ogun State. She completed her primary and secondary education in Lagos. For her tertiary education, she attended the University of Ilorin, Kwara State, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Linguistics. Her passion for acting began during her time in school, leading her to pursue a career in the performing arts immediately after graduation. Career Progression and Notable Works Wumi Toriola officially began her professional acting career in the Nigerian film industry in 2006. She trained under the leadership of veteran actor and filmmaker, Odunlade Adekola, through the Odunlade Adekola Films Production (OAFP). Her debut film was *Isese*, but she gained widespread recognition with her role in the movie *Kajola* (2015), which established her as a major force in the Yoruba film landscape. Throughout her career, Toriola has featured in and produced numerous movies. Her notable works include *Kajola*, *Alakada Reloaded*, *The Stalker*, *Obinrin*, and *Alafia*. She has successfully transitioned from being solely an actress to also becoming a producer, demonstrating her commitment and multifaceted approach to filmmaking. Her ability to embody complex characters and her consistent output have solidified her position as a sought-after actress. Major Achievements and Current Status Wumi Toriola has received recognition for her talent and influence in the industry. She has been nominated for and won several awards, acknowledging her prowess as both an actress and a producer in the Yoruba movie sector. Beyond acting, she is an active social media personality and a successful entrepreneur, running various businesses. As of her current status, Wumi Toriola remains a highly active figure in Nollywood, continuously featuring in new productions and engaging with her large fanbase. She is married with children, maintaining a balance between her professional life and her family. Her contributions continue to influence the growth and popularity of contemporary Yoruba cinema.

4M+ followers

Yakubu Mohammed: Nigerian Actor, Producer, and Filmmaker Yakubu Mohammed is a highly respected Nigerian actor, producer, director, and scriptwriter, known primarily for his contributions to the Kannywood film industry (Hausa cinema) and his significant crossover success into Nollywood (English-language cinema). He is celebrated for his versatility, often portraying diverse roles across different linguistic and cultural settings in Nigerian film. Early Life and Education Yakubu Mohammed was born on March 25, 1973, in Bauchi State, Nigeria. He is originally from Gombe State, Nigeria. His education includes primary and secondary schooling in Bauchi. He later pursued and obtained a National Diploma in Mass Communication from the Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi. Mohammed's early interest in the arts, particularly music and acting, eventually led him to pursue a career in entertainment. Career Progression Yakubu Mohammed began his career in the Hausa film industry (Kannywood) in the late 1990s. Initially, he started as a singer before transitioning fully into acting, producing, and scriptwriting. He quickly gained prominence in Kannywood for his compelling performances. His career experienced a major shift and expanded influence when he began his successful crossover into Nollywood. This transition saw him star in numerous English-language films, which significantly broadened his appeal across Nigeria and internationally. His ability to switch seamlessly between Hausa and English roles established him as one of the few actors successfully navigating both industries. Notable Works and Achievements Mohammed has been involved in hundreds of films throughout his career. Some of his most notable works include: * ***Sons of the Caliphate***: A popular television drama series where he played a key role, further cementing his status in both Kannywood and Nollywood. * ***Lionheart*** (2018): Directed by Genevieve Nnaji, this film, which was Nigeria's first-ever submission to the Academy Awards (Oscars) for Best International Feature Film, showcased his talent to a global audience. * ***4th Republic*** (2019): A political thriller where his performance garnered critical praise. * ***The Royal Hibiscus Hotel*** (2017) and ***MTV Shuga*** (Season 5): Further examples of his work in mainstream Nigerian and pan-African productions.His major achievements include multiple nominations and awards in both Kannywood and Nollywood. He is often recognized for his professionalism and dedication to promoting cross-cultural understanding through his work in both film industries. Current Status As of the present, Yakubu Mohammed remains a highly active figure in the Nigerian film sector. He continues to feature prominently in both cinematic and television productions, juggling roles as an actor, producer, and director. He is regarded as one of the most bankable and respected bilingual actors in the country, maintaining a strong public profile and a large following across various social media platforms.

1M+ followers

**Yemi Solade: Nigerian Actor, Producer, and Screenwriter** Yemi Solade is a veteran Nigerian actor, filmmaker, and scriptwriter recognized for his extensive career spanning several decades in the Nigerian film industry, commonly known as Nollywood, particularly within the Yoruba movie sector. He is noted for his versatility and compelling performances in both English and Yoruba-language productions. **Early Life and Education** Yemi Solade was born in Lagos State, Nigeria, and spent his formative years in the Surulere area. His initial passion was in dance; as a young man, he achieved recognition as the Lagos State dance champion for three consecutive years, even representing Africa in world dance competitions in Spain. Solade’s commitment to education is significant; he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Dramatic Arts from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. He further pursued a Master's degree in Sociology from the University of Ibadan (UI) and later obtained another Master’s in Public Administration from Lagos State University (LASU). **Career Progression and Notable Works** Solade began his career in the arts with stage performances. His earliest recorded stage appearance was in a 45-minute monologue titled “Crazy Youngie,” where he played both a passenger and a driver. He transitioned to film and television, establishing himself as a fixture in Nigerian entertainment. His career gained momentum through numerous roles in both television series and movies, solidifying his reputation as a professional and dedicated performer. Throughout his career, Yemi Solade has featured in countless films, showcasing his ability to interpret diverse characters, from comedic to serious dramatic roles. While he is deeply associated with the Yoruba movie industry, his work transcends language barriers, contributing to broader Nollywood projects. **Major Achievements and Current Status** Yemi Solade is recognized as one of Nigeria’s enduring screen figures and is celebrated for his professionalism and consistency. In addition to acting, he has ventured into film production and writing, further influencing the industry. As of his current status, he remains active in the Nigerian film scene, starring in new productions and often commenting on the state of Nollywood. He is known to be based in Lagos, Nigeria, and continues to be a public figure with a significant social media following.

500K+ followers

**Yinka Quadri** Akanni Olayinka Quadri, widely known as Yinka Quadri, is a prominent Nigerian thespian, film producer, and actor, particularly celebrated for his significant contributions to the Yoruba film industry (Nollywood). He is recognized as one of the most influential figures in Yoruba cinema. **Early Life and Education** Yinka Quadri was born on September 6, 1959, in Lagos Island, Lagos State, Nigeria. Although born in Lagos, he is a descent of Igbomina, Kwara State. He was born into a middle-class family. Quadri completed his primary school education at St. Catholic School, Idumagbo, Lagos, and his secondary school education at Christ High School, Ebute Elefun, Lagos. **Career Progression and Achievements** Quadri's acting career began in 1976 when he and Taiwo Olayinka, along with a group of friends, formed a drama group called Afopina Theatre Group after dropping out of school. He is a co-founder and the current President of a theatre art group known as the Odunfa Caucus, with an office situated in Ebute-Meta, Lagos State. Since his debut television series titled *Agbodorogun*, Yinka Quadri has starred in more than 200 films. His long and prolific career in the Nigerian film industry spans from 1976 to the present. He is also installed as the Agba Akin of Oro Kingdom. **Major Achievements and Notable Works** Yinka Quadri has received several accolades over his career, including winning Best Supporting Actor in a Yoruba film at the 2013 Best of Nollywood Awards and Best Actor in a Leading Role (Yoruba) at the 2014 Best of Nollywood Awards. In 2023, he received the Best Supporting Actor prize at the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards. He is widely known by the nickname "Fagbamila" and for his role in the movie *Kura Matete*. On April 27, 2014, Quadri celebrated 36 years in the Nigerian film industry and simultaneously launched his biography, *Yinka Quadri: Scent of a Legend*. Notable film appearances include: * *77 Bullets* (2019) * *Shola Arikusa* * *Gangs of Lagos* * *Beast Of Two Worlds (Ajakaju)* (2023), where he played Oloye Otun. * *Kesari* (2023) * *Jagun Jagun (The Warrior)* (2023), where he played Amoye.**Current Status** Yinka Quadri remains an active figure in the Nollywood industry, continuing to act, produce films, and oversee the Odunfa Caucus. He recently starred in the film *Move Like a Boss* (2024 film).

1M+ followers

Yul Edochie is a Nigerian actor, producer, director, and politician, recognized as one of the most prominent figures in Nollywood. He is known for his compelling performances in Nigerian cinema and for his distinctive baritone voice.Early Life and Education Yul Edochie was born on January 7, 1982, in Lagos, Nigeria. He is a native of Anambra State and the youngest of six children of the veteran Nigerian actor, Pete Edochie. He was raised in both Lagos and Enugu. His name, Yul, was inspired by the famous Russian-American actor Yul Brynner. Edochie received his primary and secondary education in Nigeria. He pursued higher education at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dramatic Arts.Career Progression and Achievements Edochie ventured into Nollywood in 2005, making his debut in the film "The Exquires." His breakout role came in 2007 when he starred alongside Tonto Dikeh and Patience Ozokwor in the film "Wind of Glory." Over the following years, he built a reputation for versatility and intensity, becoming a highly sought-after actor. In 2011, he established the Yul Edochie Academy, a film academy designed to train and nurture the next generation of actors and actresses. As a director, he has helmed several notable Nigerian films. Beyond acting, Edochie has also made a foray into politics. In 2017, he contested for the governorship position of Anambra State. Although unsuccessful, his involvement highlighted his desire to influence public affairs beyond the entertainment industry.Notable Works and Current Status Yul Edochie has starred in over 200 films throughout his career. Some of his notable works include "Sleek Ladies," "Kiss the Pain," and "The Exquires." As of his current status, he remains active in the Nollywood industry as an actor, director, and producer, occasionally using his social media platforms to voice political and social commentary.

3.5M+ followers

**Zack Orji** (born Zachee Ama Orji in 1960) is a highly respected Nigerian actor, director, and filmmaker, often cited as one of the pioneers of the modern Nigerian film industry, popularly known as Nollywood. Beyond his acting career, Orji is also known as a preacher and a philanthropist. His middle name, "Amaefuna," is Igbo, meaning "May the land/heritage not be lost." **Early Life and Education** Zack Orji was born in Libreville, Gabon, due to his father's frequent travels. As a child, he grew up across several West African countries, including Cameroon, Benin, and Togo, which allowed him to become fluent in both English and French. He is the eldest of seven children. Orji returned to Nigeria for his tertiary education, graduating from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he earned a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Estate Management. **Career Progression and Major Achievements** Orji's acting career began in 1991 when he landed the lead role in his debut film, *Unforgiven Sin*. However, it was his prominent role as Fred in the 1994 film *Glamour Girls* that catapulted him into the national spotlight and firmly established him as one of Nollywood’s leading figures. Since then, he has featured in over 250 Nollywood movies, transitioning seamlessly between various roles and demonstrating remarkable versatility. Over the years, Orji also served as the former president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), contributing significantly to the structure and professionalization of the industry. **Notable Works** Orji is renowned for his roles in many classic Nollywood films, which helped define the industry in the 1990s and early 2000s. Key works include *Unforgiven Sin* (1991), *Living in Bondage* (1992), *Glamour Girls* (1994), *Nneka the Pretty Serpent* (1994), *Rattle Snake* (1995), and *Blood Money*. He has also taken on directing roles, such as the 2004 film *Bonds of Tradition*. His influence is rooted in his enduring presence and ability to portray authoritative, often complex, characters. **Current Status** Zack Orji remains active in the Nigerian entertainment scene as an actor and director. He is married to Ngozi Orji, and they have three children. In addition to filmmaking, he is involved in philanthropy through a charity organization focused on assisting people with disabilities and the less privileged, and he also manages other businesses, including real estate. In 2022, Orji publicly declared his support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2023 Nigerian presidential election. In 2024, he shared his experience of undergoing two brain surgeries in Nigeria, expressing faith in the country's healthcare system.

1M+ followers

Azubuike Michael Egwu, widely known as Zubby Michael, is a Nigerian actor and movie producer recognized for his prominent roles in Nollywood films. Life and Early Career: Zubby Michael was born on February 1, 1985, in Anambra State, Nigeria. He attended Nnamdi Azikiwe University where he obtained a degree in Mass Communication. He began his acting career at a young age in Yola, the capital city of Adamawa State. Career Progression and Notable Works: His first movie appearance was in a film titled Missing Rib, but he gained significant popularity for his lead role in the movie The Three Widows. Other notable works that contributed to his fame include Royal Storm and Professional Lady. Over the years, Zubby Michael has appeared in several Nollywood films, establishing himself as a prolific and influential figure in the Nigerian movie industry. Achievements and Current Status: Zubby Michael has been recognized for his contributions to Nollywood and is often cited as one of the successful actors in the industry. He remains active in acting and movie production.

7.5M+ followers