Mo Abudu, Funke Akindele, Jade Osiberu Make List of 40 Most Powerful Women in International Film

The Hollywood Reporter has recognised the 40 most powerful women in international film, with three Nigerian filmmakers—Mo Abudu, Funke Akindele, and Jade Osiberu—making the prestigious list. This inclusion underscores these women’s significant impact on the global film industry.

Mo Abudu, CEO of EbonyLife Media, is celebrated for her groundbreaking work in African media. Her latest project, “Dust to Dreams,” directed by Idris Elba, secured funding from the African Export-Import Bank’s $1 billion Creative Africa film fund. Over the years, Abudu has produced numerous critically acclaimed films and TV series, including “The Wedding Party,” “Fifty,” and “Chief Daddy.”

Notably, “The Wedding Party” remains among the highest-grossing Nigerian films ever. Abudu’s strategic partnerships with international giants like Netflix and Sony Pictures Television have significantly boosted the global distribution of African content, earning her recognition for bridging African narratives with worldwide audiences.

Funke Akindele rose to fame with her role in the TV series “Jenifa’s Diary,” which she also produced. The series has become a cultural touchstone in Nigeria and across Africa. Akindele has recently distinguished herself with her impressive box-office successes.

Her film “Omo Ghetto: The Saga” was the highest-grossing Nigerian film in 2020, and her latest project, “A Tribe Called Judah,” made history as the first Nigerian movie to gross $1.2 million theatrically at the Nigerian box office. Akindele’s multifaceted career as an actress, producer, director, and politician has solidified her status as a household name.

Jade Osiberu’s career took off with her feature film “Isoken,” which received critical acclaim for its fresh portrayal of modern Nigerian women and won several awards. Osiberu later founded Greoh Studios and released “Brotherhood” in 2022, garring multiple awards at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards.

Additionally, her involvement with Prime Video led to the production of “Gangs of Lagos,” the first Nigerian Prime Video original movie, which received widespread acclaim.

The Hollywood Reporter’s recognition of these three women is a testament to the remarkable contributions of Nigerian filmmakers to the global film industry. Their achievements reflect African cinema’s growing influence and creativity on the world stage.

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