Celebrating Nollywood: The Iconic Actresses Who Shaped A Generation

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Celebrating Nollywood: The Iconic Actresses Who Shaped A Generation

Many excellent actresses from Nigeria and Ghana have emerged from the Nollywood entertainment sector. Some of these women started acting when they were little girls and have progressed to the point where they have appeared in more than 100 Nollywood productions.

The Nollywood industry has been one of the top film industries in Africa, captivating audiences with its rich storytelling and vibrant culture. This article takes a nostalgic look back at the talented actresses from the 90s who played a significant role in shaping Nollywood into what it is today. Many of these actresses are not only celebrated for their performances but are also role models, inspiring future generations of filmmakers and actors.

From the powerful performances that brought tears to our eyes to the captivating narratives that kept us on the edge of our seats, these actresses have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Here is the list of Nigerian actresses of the 90s your parents were obsessed with!

List of Nollywood Actresses of the 90s

Numerous stunning and brilliant women from the Nollywood industry have been in countless films and television shows. Below are the iconic Nollywood actresses who had a significant impact in the 90s and remain influential figures in the industry today.

1. Patience Ozokwor

Date of BirthAgePlace of Birth
14 September 195863 years (as of June 2022)Ngwo, Nigeria

Patience Ozokwor, also known as Mama G, worked as a radio announcer and newscaster. She began acting in a soap opera, Someone Cares, which was aired by Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). Her breakthrough came in 1999 with the film Authority. Since then, Patience has starred in numerous films such as Ijele, Old School, The Ghost and The Tout Too.

2. Ngozi Ezeonu

Date of BirthAgePlace of Birth
23 May 196557 years (as of June 2022)Ogbunike, Nigeria

Ngozi Ezeonu worked as a journalist at EKO FM before transitioning to acting. She was introduced by Zed Ejiro, landing her first role in the film Nneka the Pretty Serpent. She rose to fame after her notable performance in Glamour Girls in 1994, showcasing her talent in over 100 films.

3. Sandra Achums

Date of BirthAgePlace of Birth
19 November 196754 years (as of 2022)Imo State, Nigeria

Sandra Achums made her first appearance on screen in 1995 in the film Deadly Affairs, and she is well-known for portraying courageous housewives in films. Her hard work has earned her awards including Best Actress in a Supporting Role at the African Magic Viewers Choice Awards.

4. Joke Silva

Date of BirthAgePlace of Birth
29 September 196160 years (as of June 2022)Lagos, Nigeria

Joke Silva has had a prolific career, starring in both English and Yoruba films. She made her debut in 1990 with Mind-Bending and gained major recognition with The Secret Laughter of Women in 1998. In addition to acting, she's also a director and producer.

5. Dolly Unachukwu

Date of BirthAgePlace of Birth
1 November 196952 years (as of 2022)Lagos, Nigeria

Dolly Unachukwu began acting at 16 while working at Nigerian Television Authority. She sparked her interest in acting after covering for someone and made her debut in Mirror in the Sun in 1986. Dolly has also been featured in the controversial film Glamour Girls.

6. Eucharia Anunobi

Date of BirthAgePlace of Birth
25 May 196557 years (as of 2022)Owerri, Nigeria

Eucharia gained fame after her role in Glamour Girls in 1994 and became a public figure with Abuja Connection in 2003. She won an award for Best Actress in a Leading Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards and is also known for her evangelistic work.

7. Bimbo Akintola

Date of BirthAgePlace of Birth
5 May 197052 years (as of 2022)Oyo State, Nigeria

Bimbo's acting career began in 1995 with Owo Blow: The Genesis. Over the years, she has garnered numerous awards, including the Nollywood Movies Awards for Best Actress in a Leading Role. She has appeared in over 100 films.

8. Genevieve Nnaji

Date of BirthAgePlace of Birth
3 May 197943 years (as of 2022)Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria

Starting her career in the soap opera Ripples at eight, Genevieve made her film debut in 1998 with Most Wanted. She has since produced acclaimed films, including Road to Yesterday, which won Best Movie at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards.

9. Shan George

Date of BirthAgePlace of Birth
21 April 197052 years (as of 2022)Ediba, Nigeria

Shan George made her mark with her debut in Winds of Destiny and gained fame from Outcast, winning Best Actress at the African Movie Academy Awards. She has starred in over 150 films and founded the Divine Shield Film Academy.

10. Regina Askia

Date of BirthAgePlace of Birth
17 May 196753 years (as of 2022)Lagos, Nigeria

Regina's career took off with her appearance in Fortunes in 1993, followed by her standout role in Most Wanted. She has won several awards, including Best Actress in Nigeria by Afro Hollywood London.

11. Omotola Jalade Ekeinde

Date of BirthAge The archive celebrating the fierce females of '00s Nollywood INDIE
The archive celebrating the fierce females of '00s Nollywood INDIE

Celebrating Our Nollywood Curvy Actresses.
Celebrating Our Nollywood Curvy Actresses.

Nollywood actress Onyi Alex, has joined other nigerians in celebrating
Nollywood actress Onyi Alex, has joined other nigerians in celebrating

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