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Destiny .M. George
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Top 7 Up-And-Coming Kannywood Actors To Watch In 2025
The Hausa-language film industry, popularly known as Kannywood, has become a cultural powerhouse in Nigeria and beyond, delivering compelling stories that resonate deeply with its audience. Over the years, the industry has introduced numerous actors who have risen to national and international prominence. As we approach 2025, a new generation of actors is making waves, capturing attention with their talent, charisma, and fresh approach to storytelling. Here, we spotlight seven of Kannywood’s brightest emerging stars who are set to make an indelible mark in the coming year.
1. Aliyu Sani – The Charismatic Star in the Making
Aliyu Sani has steadily risen through the ranks of Kannywood with his charm, versatility, and dedication to his craft. Known for his roles in romantic dramas and family-oriented films, Aliyu has a unique ability to connect with audiences. His performance in the 2024 romantic drama Gaskiya da Soyayya earned him widespread acclaim for portraying a conflicted young man torn between tradition and modernity.
In 2025, Aliyu is set to star in Tunanin Zuciya, a film that explores mental health and resilience in Hausa society. His growing fanbase and collaborations with seasoned directors position him as one of Kannywood’s most promising talents.
2. Fatima Musa – The Versatile Powerhouse
Fatima Musa has captured the hearts of Kannywood fans with her radiant smile and impressive range. Her ability to embody diverse roles, from a spirited village girl in Rayuwa Ta Sauya to a modern entrepreneur in Sakon Zuciya, has made her a favorite among directors.
Fatima’s breakout moment came in 2024 with Juyin Halitta, where she delivered a powerful performance as a young woman defying societal expectations. In 2025, she will take on a challenging role in Mace Mai Karfi, a film that highlights women’s empowerment and resilience in northern Nigeria. With her ambition and talent, Fatima is on track to become a household name.
3. Bello Abubakar – The Comedic Genius
Comedy has always been an essential part of Kannywood’s storytelling, and Bello Abubakar is leading the new generation of comedic actors. Known for his impeccable timing and ability to improvise, Bello has breathed new life into Kannywood comedies. His role in Dariya da Gaske was a major hit, blending humor with a heartfelt message about family values.
As Bello prepares for 2025, he has announced his involvement in a highly anticipated comedy-drama series, Irin Mu Na Garin, which explores the humorous side of urban life in northern Nigeria. His blend of humor and relatability ensures he will remain a favorite for years to come.
4. Maryam Abdullahi – The Rising Queen of Drama
Maryam Abdullahi is an actress who has demonstrated exceptional growth and range over the past few years. Known for her ability to convey deep emotions, Maryam has been lauded for her role in Zuciyar Mutum, where she played a woman navigating the complexities of love and family pressure.
In 2025, Maryam will star in Ranar Alkawari, a historical drama that promises to showcase her acting prowess on a grand scale. As she continues to take on challenging roles and work with top Kannywood filmmakers, Maryam is poised to become one of the industry’s leading ladies.
5. Umar Farouk – The Actor with Global Aspirations
Umar Farouk has quickly become one of Kannywood’s most talked-about new talents. Having started as a production assistant, Umar’s journey to becoming a lead actor is nothing short of inspiring. His performance in Tunanin Duniya earned him critical acclaim for portraying a determined young man striving to overcome societal barriers.
What sets Umar apart is his ambition to take Kannywood to the global stage. In 2025, he will collaborate with an international production team on Fadakarwa, a movie aimed at showcasing Hausa culture to a global audience. Umar’s dedication and vision make him a name to watch.
6. Hauwa Suleiman – The Theater-Trained Star
Hauwa Suleiman’s background in theater has equipped her with the skills to tackle some of the most demanding roles in Kannywood. Her breakout performance in Gidan Sirri demonstrated her ability to portray complex characters, earning her accolades from audiences and critics alike.
Hauwa’s dedication to her craft is evident in her preparation for roles, often immersing herself deeply in her character’s world. In 2025, she will take on the lead role in Matsalar Gaskiya, a psychological thriller that promises to push the boundaries of storytelling in Kannywood.
7. Ahmed Aliyu – The New Face of Action Films
Ahmed Aliyu has made a name for himself as Kannywood’s go-to actor for action-packed roles. Known for his athleticism and charisma, Ahmed brought intensity and energy to his role in Yakin Zuciya, a film about a young man fighting for justice in his community.
With a growing fanbase and a knack for choosing impactful projects, Ahmed is set to star in Jajircewa, a 2025 action-thriller that delves into themes of courage and sacrifice. His ability to balance physicality with emotional depth makes him a standout among Kannywood’s rising stars.
The Future of Kannywood
As these seven actors continue to rise, they represent the future of Kannywood: a dynamic, evolving industry that continues to tell stories that resonate with audiences while addressing societal issues. These talented individuals bring fresh perspectives and unique skills to the screen, ensuring that Kannywood remains a vital part of Nigerian and African cinema.
For fans and newcomers alike, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Kannywood, thanks to these up-and-coming stars who are redefining what it means to be a Kannywood actor. Whether they are making us laugh, cry, or cheer, their performances remind us why we fell in love with Kannywood in the first place.
Keep an eye on these names as they light up screens, inspire audiences, and carry the torch for the next generation of Kannywood greatness.
