Over the years, Nollywood has evolved significantly, with better storytelling, improved cinematography, and a stronger global presence. Filmmakers like Jade Osiberu, Funke Akindele, Kunle Afolayan, and many others have pushed the boundaries, redefining what Nigerian cinema can achieve.
Now, a new wave is sweeping through Nollywood—biopic movies. More filmmakers are telling the stories of our past heroes, preserving our history, and ensuring that future generations understand the legacies of those who shaped Nigeria. Unlike before, when we relied on international filmmakers to tell our stories, Nollywood is pushing further in taking ownership of its narratives, maintaining authenticity and cultural integrity.
From films about legendary figures in politics, music, and activism to historical events that shaped our nation, Nollywood is stepping into an era where our heritage is documented through compelling visuals and storytelling. This shift not only educates but also fosters national pride, reminding us of the rich history that often gets overlooked.
This is why we have curated a list of Nollywood biopics that have helped preserve significant historical events in Nigeria. Here are 7 Nollywood biopics you should check out:
This iconic story written by Tunde Babalola, with production and direction credited to Bolanle Austen-Peters, elegantly chronicles the life of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, portrayed brilliantly by Kehinde Bankole and veteran actress Joke Silva. From her groundbreaking journey as the first female student at Abeokuta Grammar School to her marriage to Israel Ransome-Kuti (played by Ibrahim Suleiman), the movie vividly depicts her relentless fight against oppression.
Beyond being known as Fela Kuti’s mother or the first woman to drive a car in Nigeria, Funmilayo was a fearless activist who led protests against unfair colonial policies, fought for women’s rights, and challenged the status quo. The film masterfully juxtaposes her activism with her personal life, revealing the depth of a woman whose impact on Nigeria’s history cannot be overstated.
Directed by Tunde Kelani, this film brings to life the story of Ayinla Omowura, the legendary Apala musician whose influence on Nigerian music remains unmatched. Set in the 1970s, Ayinla captures the highs and lows of the talented yet hot-tempered artiste, played by Lateef Adedimeji, as he navigates fame, love, and personal struggles. At the peak of his career, Ayinla’s music is gaining international recognition, and as a show promoter, Ajala (played by Kunle Afolayan) offers him the opportunity to tour London. However, his impulsive nature leads to a tragic downfall. After getting entangled in a love triangle involving his manager Bayewu’s girlfriend, tension rises, culminating in a fatal confrontation that results in his untimely death.
Produced by Jade Osiberu, the film doesn’t just tell a cautionary tale; it beautifully immerses viewers in the vibrant Yoruba culture of the time, showcasing the power of Apala music and the rich musical heritage Ayinla left behind. Through Tunde Kelani’s masterful storytelling and cinematography, Ayinla serves as both a tribute and a lesson on the delicate balance between talent, fame, and personal demons.
One of Nollywood’s recent ventures into historical biopics, Hijack ‘93, directed by Femi D. Ogunsanwo, tells the gripping true story of the 1993 Nigerian Airways hijacking, an event that shook the nation during one of its most politically turbulent periods. The film follows a group of four young Nigerians who, frustrated by the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential elections, hijack a Nigerian Airways flight bound for Lagos, demanding the restoration of democracy.
This high-stakes political thriller captures the desperation, bravery, and consequences of their actions, shedding light on a lesser-known chapter of Nigerian history. Hijack ‘93 is a bold step for Nollywood, proving that the industry can tackle political narratives with the same intensity as global cinema. The film not only provides a suspense-filled retelling but also raises questions about civil resistance and the price of freedom.
Lisabi is another exceptional biopic movie directed by Tunde Kelani that captures historical moments of Yoruba culture. The film narrates the story of Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, the legendary warrior and leader of the Egba people. In the 18th century, Lisabi was crucial to their liberation from the oppressive Oyo Empire. The film delves into Lisabi’s strategic brilliance, his organization of the Egba people under the Egbe Aaro (a secret militia), and the revolutionary uprising that led to the Egba’s independence.
Beyond his military prowess, Lisabi explores the themes of leadership, sacrifice, and resistance against tyranny. With stunning visuals and deep cultural references, the film not only brings to life one of Yoruba history’s greatest warriors but also preserves an essential part of Nigeria’s heritage. Tunde Kelani’s direction ensures that the story is told with historical accuracy while remaining engaging for modern audiences.
The award-winning action drama narrates the intriguing story of the warrior queen of Zazzua(present-day Zaria), exploring trials and triumphs in the male-dominated kingship as she ascends to the throne of her father’s empire.
Although the Izu Ojukwu-directed film exposed a few historical inaccuracies, it highlights a significant era in the 16th century, capturing African royalty from the modern-day Northern region before colonialism and the slavery era and preserving the historical prominence of one of the most powerful women in Nigeria’s history. The Netflix-acquired movie depicts young Amina’s quest to become a mighty warrior and ascension to the throne in the Zazzau kingdom, leading them to an ultimate expansion.
The Bolanle Austen-Peters directed movie is another biopic that captures a historical era in Yoruba land. The film, written by Tunde Babalola, features the story of Bashorun Ga’a, a powerful warlock and kingmaker in the 18th century during the old Oyo Empire, who wielded more power than the kings.
The movie doesn’t just delve into the historical setting and Bashorun’s political exploits but also highlights his ruthless ambition and quest for power, a familiar narrative among various African countries during the mid-20th century, which opened for his demise caused by his own blood. Similar to the coup d’etat in the 1960s, which saw the unseating of military heads, House of Ga’a also portrays such an eventful moment. It conveys Bashorun’s brutal run on his rise to p, yet it elaborates on the rich history of Yoruba culture.
While this doesn’t reflect the typical biopics, it identifies a significant and critical part of Nigeria’s history. The film dives into the Ebola outbreak in 2014 that plagued the country at the time, shedding light on the sacrifices and courageous actions of the several individuals who came together to curb the widespread of the disease, with a focus on Dr. Ameyo Adadevoh-the medical personnel who proactiveness saved the country. The award-winning film highlights the doctor’s key role in making tough decisions and sacrificing her life after contracting the virus from Liberian-American Patrick Sawyer, who was on a visit to Nigeria.
With Nollywood embracing biopics, we are witnessing an era where our history is no longer just passed down through oral tradition but is visually documented for generations to come. These films entertain and educate, keeping the legacies of our icons and key historical events alive. As more filmmakers take on historical storytelling, we can look forward to even more compelling retellings of Nigeria’s rich past.
The DIY Collective 
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