How Much Do Nigerian Actresses Earn Per Movie?

The earnings of Nigerian actresses per movie can vary significantly depending on their experience, popularity, and the movie's budget. In Nollywood, some actresses are categorized as "A-list," while others are part of the "B-list," with their earnings reflecting these distinctions.

A-list actresses, who are well-established and have achieved significant fame, command the highest salaries. Actresses like Genevieve Nnaji and Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, for instance, can earn between ₦2 million to ₦10 million per movie. These figures are for high-budget productions where these stars play lead roles. In particular, Genevieve Nnaji has been reported to earn around ₦3 million to ₦4.5 million per role, while Omotola commands similar figures.

Other prominent actresses such as Mercy Johnson, Rita Dominic, and Chioma Akpotha also command high fees, ranging from ₦1 million to ₦5 million per movie, depending on the scale of the production and their role.

On the other hand, B-list actresses—those who are still rising through the ranks—earn considerably less. For these actresses, fees can range between ₦50,000 to ₦200,000 per movie, especially for smaller or lower-budget productions.

Beginners or less recognized actresses can earn as low as ₦15,000 to ₦50,000, especially if they play minor roles in less commercially successful films.

However, Nollywood is not just about earnings from acting alone. Many actresses augment their income through endorsements and side businesses. For instance, Genevieve Nnaji and Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde have significant earnings from brand endorsements, which can even surpass what they earn per film.

In conclusion, the income of Nigerian actresses varies based on their star power, experience, and the type of movie they are involved in. Established stars can earn millions per movie, while those still building their careers may have to settle for more modest pay until they climb the ladder of fame.