Nigerian Artists in Nollywood Movies – 10 Unforgettable Roles You Need to See
For years, the Nigerian entertainment industry has thrived on the chemistry between music and film. Many Nigerian artists have crossed the thin line from music to Nollywood screen, proving that performance isn’t confined to just one art form. After all, artists already act in music videos and command audiences with charisma and presence—so the transition to acting feels natural.
From the early 2000s to the present, we’ve seen singers and rappers step into Nollywood movies, sometimes playing characters close to their real personas, and other times stretching their range into unexpected roles. While not every artist can excel on screen, a few have stood out with memorable performances.
Here are ten Nigerian artists who have starred in Nollywood movies and left a mark.
1. Falz
Folarin “Falz” Falana is one of the most successful examples of a Nigerian artist crossing into Nollywood. A lawyer turned rapper, singer, and actor, Falz quickly became known for his witty persona and comedic timing. His breakout role came in Funke Akindele’s Jenifa’s Diary, where he played Segun (popularly called Sege), an illiterate but hilarious character in love with Jenifa (Funke Akindele).
Falz’s performance won him the AMVCA Best Actor in Jenifa’s Diary (2016). He went on to star in films like Merry Men (1, 2, and 3), Brotherhood, and New Money, where he played Quam, a role that earned him the AMVCA Best Supporting Actor (2018). He reprised the role in the sequel, Quam’s Money, proving his staying power in Nollywood.
2. Banky W
Olubankole Wellington, better known as Banky W, may not have a long Nollywood filmography, but his impact is undeniable. His role as Dozie in Kemi Adetiba’s The Wedding Party (2016) was a defining moment. The chemistry between him and co-star Adesua Etomi (now his wife) helped the film become one of the highest-grossing Nollywood movies ever.
Beyond that, Banky W has shown more range in Up North (2018), where he played Sadiq, a wealthy but entitled young man sent to Bauchi for his NYSC service. He also appeared in Sugar Rush (2019), taking on the role of Anikulapo, a character deeply tied to the film’s thrilling heist storyline.
3. Zlatan Ibile
Zlatan Ibile made his acting debut in the 2023 film Gangs of Lagos, directed by Jade Osiberu. Playing the character Kash, Zlatan fit seamlessly into the gritty world of Lagos street life, bringing raw energy to his role.
Though not a lead character, his performance was authentic and in line with his streetwise music persona. Zlatan proved that even with limited screen time, Nigerian artists can make strong impressions in Nollywood movies.
4. Reminisce
Remilekun Safaru, popularly known as Reminisce (Alaga Ibile), delivered one of the most acclaimed music-to-film crossovers in Nollywood. His role as Makanaki in Kemi Adetiba’s King of Boys (2018) was a revelation.
Makanaki was ruthless, ambitious, and unforgettable—a perfect fit for Reminisce’s commanding presence. He reprised the role in King of Boys: The Return of the King on Netflix, solidifying himself as more than just a rapper but also a formidable Nollywood villain. Fans and critics alike felt he deserved an AMVCA win for his powerful performance.
5. Omawumi
Songstress Omawumi Megbele has also explored Nollywood, with roles in Inale (2010), House of Gold (2013), She Is (2019), and Palava (2022). Known for her powerful vocals and personality, Omawumi brought authenticity to her roles, often portraying strong, relatable women.
She also co-produced She Is alongside Waje, showing her interest in both acting and filmmaking, beyond music making.
6. Waje
Aituaje Iruobe, popularly known as Waje, has made several forays into Nollywood. She appeared in Jenifa’s Diary and later starred in She Must Be Obeyed (2023), a drama series directed by Funke Akindele. In the series, Waje played the role of Xcite, a veteran artist navigating the harsh realities of the music industry, including exploitation and rivalries.
Waje’s role resonated strongly with viewers, especially since the series tackled real-life issues faced by musicians in Nigeria.
7. Seyi Shay
Seyi Shay made her Nollywood debut in Lara and the Beat (2018), a music-themed drama where she played Lara Giwa, a young woman forced to rebuild her life after her family’s downfall. The role was fitting, as it allowed her to showcase both her acting and singing abilities.
She starred alongside rapper Vector, making the film a true crossover of music and Nollywood talent. While Lara and the Beat didn’t dominate the box office, it remains a notable example of Nigerian artists venturing into film.
8. Ikechukwu
Veteran rapper Ikechukwu Onunaku transitioned into Nollywood with a strong performance in The Wedding Party (2016) as Sola, the groom’s troublesome best man. His mischievous antics nearly derailed the wedding, adding humor and tension to the plot.
He reprised the role in The Wedding Party 2 and has since appeared in other films, gradually building a reputation as both a musician and an actor. Ikechukwu’s blend of charisma and comic timing makes him a standout Nigerian artist in Nollywood.
9. Yemi Alade
Yemi Eberechi Alade, better known as Yemi Alade, debuted as an actress in the blockbuster Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020), directed by JJC Skillz and Funke Akindele. She played Mogambe, the ruthless leader of a drug trafficking gang.
The movie follows twin sisters leading separate lives who are reunited by dramatic twists. Yemi Alade’s portrayal of a tough underworld boss was a surprising departure from her flamboyant stage persona, proving her versatility.
10. Mr P
Peter Okoye, also known as Mr P of the now-defunct Psquare duo, has appeared in major Nollywood productions. In the Netflix film Lionheart (2018) directed by Genevieve Nnaji, he played Arinze, contributing to a story centered around family, business, and legacy.
He also starred in Shanty Town (2023), where he played Femi, a character entangled in the gritty underworld of Lagos. Mr P’s performances show that even music veterans can reinvent themselves as Nollywood actors.
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