Nigerian musicians take on different roles in their music videos, but only a few of them have had the opportunity to star in a feature movie.
Below are 10 Nigerian artistes that have added acting to their resume.
1. Tiwa Savage: Nigerian singer and songwriter Tiwatope Omolara Savage, better known by her stage name Tiwa Savage, has been featured in several movies.
Born in Isale Eko, she made her acting debut in the hit MTV series Shuga. She also had an appearance in an episode of the hit Funke Akindele series Jenifa’s Dairy.
In February 2023, Savage took to Instagram to announce her collaboration with Meji Alabi in co-producing the newly-released film “Water and Garri”, aired on Prime video, today, May 10.
The title of Savage’s second extended play, “Water & Garri,” served as inspiration for the film. Alongside Alabi, Savage will also take on the lead role in the production. Set in Cape Coast, Ghana, the film featured Mike Afolarin, Andrew Bunting, and Jemima Osunde in supporting roles.
2. Skales: Afrobeat singer born in Kaduna state, Raoul John Njeng-Njeng, popularly known as Skales recently joined the league of singers who ventured into filming.
He made his acting debut in the upcoming Nollywood thriller ‘Seeking Justice’, directed by JJC Skillz.
‘Seeking Justice’ starred Gabriel Afolayan, Funky Mallam, Deyemi Okanlawon, Eso Dike, Ali Nuhu, Femi Branch, Zubby Michael, Liquorose and more.
The title and the latest Instagram image suggest that viewers should anticipate a thriller. Eagerness is growing for Skales’ acting debut and the mysteries surrounding the film Seeking Justice. The release date, plot line, and other cast members for the movie have not been made public yet.
3. Falz: Folarin Falana, widely recognized as Falz, is a Nigerian rapper, songwriter, and actor. His journey into the entertainment industry started during his secondary school days when he teamed up with a friend to form a group called The School Boys. His professional music career took off in 2009.
He captured Nigerians’ hearts and attention with his comedic rapping style. Falz played the character of Segun in Jenifa’s Diary.
In 2016, he won the African Magic Viewers Choice Award (AMVCA) for Best Actor in a Comedy Movie or Series. In 2018, he also won the AMVCA for Best Supporting Actor for his performance as Quam in Tope Oshin’s film New Money.
His explicit acting skills could not be overseen as he collaborated with several actors in movies like 10 Days in Sun City, Brotherhood, Merry Men, Quam’s Money, and Chief Daddy.
4. Simi: In 2019, Simisola Bolatito Kosoko Ogunleye, better known by her stage name as Simi, made her first featured acting in Kunle Afolayan’s film Mokalik (Mechanic), playing the intriguing part of Simi.
The film tracks the journey of 11-year-old Ponmile, portrayed by Toni Afolayan, hailing from the middle-class suburbs. He embarks on a day-long stint as a humble apprentice at a mechanic workshop to gain insight into life beyond his usual surroundings. As his father comes to fetch him, Ponmile faces a crucial decision: whether to resume his schooling or commit fully to his apprenticeship.
The movie cast includes Simi, Tobi Bakre, Femi Adebayo, Lateef Adedimeji, Fathia Balogun and lots more.
5. Chike: R&B singer Chike Ezekpeazu Osebuka, popularly known by his stage name Chike, became well-known after competing in the Nigerian singing competition Project Fame West Africa, where he finished in second place during the first season. He further showcased his abilities on The Voice Nigeria, where he was given a notable spot.
Chike, who is a native of Onitsha, Anambra State in the south-eastern region of Nigeria, ventured into acting by making his debut as Mayoma Badmus on the Africa Magic Showcase telenovela Battleground. He also appeared in the production Gang of Lagos, portraying the character Ify.
6. Reminisce: Nigerian rapper Remilekun Khalid Safaru, known by his stage name Reminisce, made his acting debut in the Nollywood film industry in 2018 in the film King of Boys, which Kemi Adetiba directed.
Reminisce portrayed the villain in the film, Makanaki, a Nigerian mobster from Lagos, which both reviewers and viewers favourably received.
7. Waje: Aituaje Iruobe, recognized by her stage name Waje, made an appearance in the drama series “She Must Be Obeyed,” portraying the character Xcite.
8. Yemi Alade: Yemi Eberechi Alade, also known by her stage name Yemi Alade debuted as an actress in the 2020 Nollywood film Omo Ghetto: The Saga, which was directed by JJC Skillz and Akindele. She played the role of Mogambe, the head of a drug trafficking gang.
9. 2face Idibia: Legendary 2face Idibia was part of the all-star cast in the dance themed musical-movie, Make a Move. Produced by budding actress and AMVCA winner, Ivie Okujaye, the movie also starred Majid Michel, Beverly Naya, Wale Adebayo and Tina Mba.
10. Ikechukwu: Former Storm Records act, Ikechukwu Onunaku, after his training at a film school decided to go into acting and movie production. The World Famous Academy boss took a role alongside stars like Kenneth Okolie, Gbenro and Osas Ajibade, Gideon Okeke and Shaffy Bello in the Nollywood movie titled Gbomo Gbomo Express.
