Nollywood, Nigeria’s film industry, has gained global recognition as the second largest film producer in the world. The industry, which is a significant part of the Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation Sector, contributed 2.3% (239 billion NGN) to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2016.
Over the past decade, Nollywood has experienced tremendous growth, giving rise to a new generation of actresses. Despite this, many of the old actresses who have been in the industry for 15-20 years have maintained their status and continue to be successful. Some have even appeared in Hollywood productions, while others have created blockbusters for international streaming platforms, and some have been recognized by Forbes as the most prominent actors to come out of Africa.
Here is a list of the top five richest actresses in Nigeria in 2022 according to Statista:
- Genevieve Nnaji, with a net worth of $12 million, is the highest-paid and wealthiest actress in Nigeria. She won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in 2005 and has appeared in over 200 Nollywood movies. Nnaji has also tried her hand at music, releasing an album and winning the face of Lux in 2004. In addition to acting, she has also produced and directed films, including the award-winning Road to Yesterday and the Netflix original Lionheart. Most of Nnaji’s wealth comes from her acting, endorsements, and real estate income.
- Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, with a net worth of $10 million, is a Nigerian actress, singer, and philanthropist. She gained recognition for her roles in the films Mortal Inheritance and Venom of Justice, and has since appeared in over 300 films. In addition to acting, Ekeinde has also released music and has received numerous awards for her humanitarian efforts.
- Mercy Johnson, with a net worth of $8 million, is a popular actress who has appeared in over 150 films. Johnson, who started her career in the film industry in 2004, has won numerous awards for her acting and is known for her roles in the films Wedding Party and The Maid. In addition to acting, she is also a philanthropist and has endorsed several brands.
- Ini Edo, with a net worth of $7 million, is a talented actress who has appeared in over 200 films. Edo, who started her career in 2000, has won several awards for her acting and is known for her roles in the films World Apart and Royal War. In addition to acting, she is also a brand ambassador for several products.
- Funke Akindele, with a net worth of $6 million, is a popular actress and producer who has appeared in over 100 films. Akindele, who started her career in 1998, has won numerous awards for her acting and is known for her roles in the films Jenifa and Omo Ghetto. In addition to acting, she is also a philanthropist and has endorsed several brands.
Overall, these top actresses have achieved great success in the Nigerian film industry, earning them the title of the richest actresses in Nigeria in 2022.
