5 Showmax Originals produced, directed and written by women

This International Women's Month, we recognise and celebrate women's remarkable achievements in the Nollywood film industry, notably, the women who work behind the cameras. These female filmmakers are continuously putting in the work to revamp and push women’s on-screen representation. 

Showmax has shown commitment to working with these creators in telling authentic stories and bringing top-tier titles with powerful and everyday female characters with ambitions that defeat societal expectations. This dedication is evident in their title selections of compelling storylines that resonate with viewers. 

Here are 5 titles produced, directed, and written by Nigerian women, currently streaming on Showmax.

Preye Odibo - Series producer, Wura

Preye Odibo is the series producer of the fan-favourite telenovela Wura. She has accumulated over 14 years of experience in both stage and screen production. With a Theatre Arts Degree from the University of Ibadan, she has seamlessly transitioned from theatre to film. Starting as a production manager for The Johnsons, she advanced to the role of line producer in 2018 and currently serves as a series producer. 

With Wura, she highlights the strengths of women and the importance of females taking on leadership roles through characters like the eponymous Wura (CEO of Frontline Gold Mine), Tumi (who is a brilliant automobile mechanic), Paulina (the owner of Iperindo’s biggest entertainment centre), and Iya Mide (a foremost community leader). Wura is Showmax’s first and longest-running Nigerian telenovela, celebrated for its compelling storytelling and stellar cast. 

Dami Elebe - Head writer, Flawsome 2

The highly anticipated Showmax Original series Flawsome continues its journey after securing five nominations across four categories at the 2023 Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCAs). With the return of the series comes the promise to be more fabulous, as Dami Elebe takes on the role of Season 2's screenwriter. 

Renowned for her exceptional works such as Skinny Girl in Transit, The Men's Club, Rumor Has It, and Far From Home, Elebe's talent for crafting compelling narratives and vivid characters ensures that Flawsome Season 2 surpasses expectations. It's also a must-watch this month as it highlights the struggles of four young women, their determination to succeed, and the beauty of healthy female friendships.

Deola Art-Alade - Co-producer, The Real Housewives of Lagos

Deola Art Alade, The Real Housewives of Lagos (RHOLagos) executive producer, is a woman who wears many hats. She is a design expert, producer, marketing guru, entertainment executive, CEO, and an alumnus of Harvard Business School. RHOLagos showcases the beauty and glamour of Lagos through the views of seven dynamic women. 

Drama might take centre stage in the show, but it also celebrates the industrious and entrepreneurial nature of the women. Beyond the glitz and glamour, The Real Housewives of Lagos captures the strength and creativity of these women, showcasing their determination in pursuit of business success. 

Hadizat Ibrahim - Producer, The Counsellor

Hadizat Ibrahim is a seasoned media professional with 15 years of experience as a producer, writer, and story and content consultant. She brings her expertise to the forefront as the producer of The Counsellor, a Showmax Original movie. With a notable career that includes supervising content as Africa Magic’s Commissioning Editor for critically acclaimed shows like Tinsel, Battleground, Ajoche, and Highlites with IK, Hadizat's influence in the industry is undeniable. 

In The Counsellor, viewers follow the lives of Aisha and Gbenro, a couple healing from heartbreak from previous relationships just before Valentine's Day. As they unexpectedly find themselves on a getaway originally planned with their ex-partners, they navigate the complexities of love and healing at a couples’ retreat. Adding a twist to the story is Gbenro's mother, who insists they must spend time with a marriage counsellor before she accepts their relationship and supports their marriage.

Uche Ikejimba - Executive producer, Agu

Uche Ikejimba is the executive producer and Headwriter for the 2023 Showmax Original legal television series Agu. She is a renowned writer for hit shows like Unmarried and Dilemma. Both titles received nods at the 8th AMVCA for Best Africa Magic Original Drama Series. She is also the supervising producer for Big Brother Naija. 

The six-part limited drama series Agu follows the lives of three key characters - Etim (Kanayo), Pius (Nonso Odogwu), and Victoria (Ruby Okezie) - as they become involved in a court case for the murder of Felix, Pius' close friend. The series tells a captivating story with many plot twists, showcasing the exceptional writing talent of Uche Ikejimba. Ikejimba worked alongside her husband, Anis Halloway, who directed the series. 

In celebration of International Women’s Month, check out these titles spearheaded by great women, exclusively on Showmax.