Top 10 Nollywood TV Series of 2024: The Year of Compelling Stories and Global Recognition

This year has been an exciting one for Nigerian television, with Nollywood producing a wide variety of engaging shows that have captivated audiences. From family dramas to romantic tales and comedies, Nigerian series have been bringing compelling stories to the forefront, captivating viewers both locally and globally. Streaming platforms like Showmax, Netflix, and Prime Video have played a significant role in propelling these Nigerian productions to international audiences, ensuring that Nigerian stories are no longer a secret.

Here are the top 10 Nollywood TV series that have stood out in 2024:

1. Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre
A spinoff from the highly successful movie Anikulapo, this series continues the story of Saro and his wife. Set against the backdrop of betrayal and revenge, the series explores the return of the mysterious bird, Akala, which previously resurrected Saro. Directed by Kunle Afolayan, the series boasts a stellar cast, including Adebayo Salami, Moji Afolayan, and Jide Kosoko, and delves into themes of power and survival.

2. Postcards
Set in cosmopolitan Mumbai and Lagos, Postcards weaves together the lives of four individuals as they navigate the ups and downs of life, from joy to grief, love to heartbreak. Produced by Hamisha Daryani and featuring stars like Richard Mofe-Damijo, Tobi Bakre, and Nancy Isime, the Netflix series captures the intersection of cultures and the powerful human stories that unfold in both cities.

3. Princess on A Hill
This Showmax Original dives into the world of corporate power struggles, ambition, and suspense. It follows Zara, a young executive thrust into the high-stakes boardroom of a powerful Nigerian conglomerate. Directed by Abiola Sobo and Tolu Ajayi, Princess on A Hill showcases the complexities of corporate life in Nigeria, with gripping storylines and layered characters.

4. Seven Doors
Following the success of Jagun Jagun, Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors takes viewers to 18th and 19th-century Nigeria, where a Yoruba king and his Igbo queen’s marriage faces challenges when a Hausa investor disrupts their kingdom’s traditions. The series, which stars Chioma Akpotha, Femi Adebayo, and Adebayo Salami, explores love, power, and cultural conflict.

5. Oloture: The Journey
A sequel to the 2020 film Oloture, this series follows an investigative journalist as she uncovers the dark world of human trafficking in Lagos and her journey to Europe. Directed by Kenneth Gyang and starring Sharon Ooja Nwoke, Efe Iwara, and Omoni Oboli, the series highlights the real dangers faced by thousands of Nigerians seeking better lives abroad.

6. Just Us Girls (Season 3)
Returning for its third season, Just Us Girls is a Nigerian web series that explores the lives of four women with secrets and struggles. Premiering on YouTube in November 2024, the series touches on the challenges faced by modern women while fostering a sense of community and empowerment.

7. Wura (Season 3)
In this season of Wura, the main character faces the consequences of her ruthless actions as long-buried secrets come to light. With the fate of her family and gold mine hanging in the balance, Wura navigates betrayal and loss. The series, starring Scarlet Gomez and Yomi Fash Lanso, continues to captivate with its compelling twists.

8. Flawsome (Season 2)
Flawsome follows four ambitious friends, navigating personal and professional challenges. Season 2 of this Showmax Original series, featuring Bisola Aiyeola, Sharon Ooja, and Ini Dima-Okojie, delves deeper into their flaws and how their friendships hold them together amidst life’s complexities.

9. Inside Life
This supernatural drama on Netflix reveals the dark side of Lagos, exploring a web of secrets, mystical forces, and societal issues like police brutality and inter-tribal tensions. Directed by Clarence Peters, Inside Life features a talented cast including Gabriel Afolayan, Meg Otanwa, and Jide Kosoko, and brings a unique perspective on the city’s underbelly.

10. Life and Dirt
Premiering on Amazon Prime Video, Life and Dirt tells the story of Yoshua, a young Nigerian who seeks quick wealth but gets entangled in dangerous situations. Written and executive produced by Bovi Ugbomma, the series quickly rose to the top spot in Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon, thanks to its gritty narrative and powerful performances from Uzor Arukwe, Shaffy Bello, and Jide Kosoko.

With so many outstanding shows this year, 2024 has undoubtedly been a landmark year for Nollywood. These series not only provide entertainment but also offer a glimpse into the diverse and rich culture of Nigeria, resonating with audiences across the globe. Whether you’re into drama, romance, or supernatural thrillers, there’s a Nollywood series for everyone to enjoy.