Nollywood: Nigeria's Film Industry as Cultural Soft Power

Nollywood, Nigeria's film industry, has become the world's second-largest producer of films by volume, with approximately 2,500 productions annually—about four times the output of the United States. This prolific industry generates between $600 million and $1 billion in revenue each year, making it a significant contributor to Nigeria's economy and a key driver of the country's soft power. The term 'Nollywood' emerged in the 1990s, but Nigerian storytelling on screen dates back to 1968 with the television series 'The Village Headmaster,' which depicted village life, conflicts, and traditions, offering an alternative narrative to Western perspectives. Today, Nollywood productions address daily life, corruption, power, traditions, and societal changes in Nigeria. Streaming platforms have amplified the industry's global reach, with series like 'Blood Sisters' and 'Far From Home' attracting international audiences while maintaining a distinctly African perspective. Serge Noukoué, co-founder of the Nollywood Week Film Festival, discusses the industry's history and its role as a powerful tool for Nigerian cultural influence. The article was published on RFI on August 15, 2026, as part of the podcast series 'Le monde en séries télévisées.'