Nollywood icon Genevieve Nnaji has passionately called for stronger collaborations across African film industries, describing intercontinental productions as a long-held dream she is eager to see realised.
The award-winning actress and filmmaker made the remarks during an appearance on the Deadline Podcast. She expressed optimism about the future of African cinema and the potential for cross-border storytelling.
“I think my dream has always been that we have some intercontinental production within the African region. And I can’t wait to see that happen.”
Nnaji, who produced and directed the Netflix-acquired film Lionheart, highlighted the inspiring rise of female producers, directors, and filmmakers in Nigeria. She described the industry as still young yet remarkably accomplished.
“Seeing a lot more female producers, directors, and filmmakers come up is also very inspiring to me. The industry is barely 40 years old, but we’ve achieved so much in such a short time.”
The Imo State-born star emphasised that African cinema is only just beginning its journey.
“I think we just started. I think, you know, time is still very young, and we have a lot more to achieve.”
She voiced strong confidence in the power of Nigerian and African stories.
“The stories that come out of Nigeria, I can’t wait for people to actually see the depth of who we are as a nation, as a culture, as a continent, Africa as a whole.”
Her comments come shortly after she received recognition at the Red Sea Film Foundation’s Women in Cinema gala during the 79th Cannes Film Festival. This honour further cements her status as a trailblazer who has significantly elevated Nollywood’s global profile.
Fans and industry stakeholders have welcomed her vision, seeing it as a timely push toward a more united and internationally competitive African film ecosystem.