Mo Abudu, Funke Akindele, and Jade Osiberu, three prominent filmmakers from Nigeria, are included on the list of the 40 Most Powerful Women in International Film compiled by The Hollywood Reporter.
This list honors women who, despite obstacles like a disrupted film market, continue to nurture new voices and bring stories to a global audience.
As declared by The Hollywood Reporter, these three in number Nollywood film makers have for the earlier years, graced the movies with enchanting stories and manifestations.
Mo Abudu (CEO, EbonyLife Media)
Africa’s production industry faced a setback when Amazon Prime Video left the African originals business. Yet, Mo Abudu, a pioneer in African media, continues to thrive. Her recent project, the short film “Dust to Dreams” directed by Idris Elba, received funding from the African Export-Import Bank’s $1 billion Creative Africa film fund.
Abudu emphasizes the need for the international industry to embrace diverse stories.
“We need a systemic shift towards inclusion,” she says. “Diverse storytelling isn’t just about representation; it’s about unlocking a wealth of untapped creative potential”, she said.
Funke Akindele (Producer, Film One Entertainment)
Funke Akindele ran for governor of Lagos State in 2023, adding politics to her roles as an actor, writer, director, and producer. Despite the defeat of her party, her career continues to thrive. Her most recent comedy, “A Tribe Called Judah,” which she wrote, directed, produced, and starred in, earned $1.2 million, making it the highest-grossing movie ever made in Nigeria.
Jade Osiberu, founder of Greoh Studios:
Jade is a prominent Nigerian producer and director who directed Amazon’s crime thriller “Gangs of Lagos.” Her next film, “Everything Scatter,” follows five youngsters during a day of protests in Lagos.
Reacting to the recognition, Mo Abudu expressed her pride, saying,
“This recognition is a massive win for Nigeria! Seeing our nation celebrated for its incredible storytelling potential is so inspiring. I’m incredibly proud to be part of a movement pushing for a more inclusive film industry that embraces the power of diverse stories.”
Other film-makers who also made it to the list are Maren Ade, Janine Jankowski – Co-founders, Komplizen Film (Germany), Lila Avilés Producer- Limerencia Films (Mexico), Farhana Bhula -Head of Creative, Film4 (U.K.), Clémence de Lampugnano – Artistic Adviser, TF1 Film Production (France).
