As the new year begins, attention is gradually shifting to the creatives expected to shape Nigeria’s entertainment space in the months ahead. While some of the names gaining attention are already familiar, others are still emerging and may not yet be household names. However, industry watchers believe their time is near.
Across music, film, television, theatre, and streaming platforms, a mix of rising stars and established figures is poised to leave its mark in 2026. Some have been building momentum quietly for years, while others are coming off defining moments that suggest even bigger breakthroughs ahead.
Fola: A Young Voice Expanding Nigeria’s Sound
Folarin Odunlami, professionally known as Fola, is one of the music acts whose growth has been difficult to ignore. After gaining significant attention in 2025, he enters 2026 with strong momentum. His album Catharsis performed impressively on streaming platforms, earning a spot on Spotify’s Nigerian album charts and pulling in millions of streams.
With songs like You and Lost featuring Kizz Daniel, Fola has shown an ability to connect with audiences beyond borders. His presence among heavily streamed acts alongside established stars reflects a growing trust in emerging Nigerian talent.
Omotola Jalade Ekeinde: A Veteran Entering a New Creative Phase
Omotola Jalade Ekeinde remains one of the most influential figures in Nigerian cinema. After stepping back from the spotlight between 2023 and 2024, she re-emerged in 2025 with a major career milestone—her directorial debut, which premiered at the 50th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival.
As 2026 unfolds, Omotola has hinted at a balanced focus on directing and acting, signalling that audiences will experience more of her creative depth both behind the camera and in front of it.
Zaylevelten: Blending Rap, Afro-Fusion, and Production
Chisom Lucky Okoro, known as Zaylevelten, is carving out a distinct lane in Nigeria’s music space. His sound fuses rap, trap influences, and alternative Afro-fusion, creating music that feels both raw and experimental.
Beyond performing, Zaylevelten also stands out as a producer under the name Tenski, maintaining creative control over his sound. Songs like Maye helped introduce him to a wider audience, and his dual role as artist and producer positions him as one to watch closely in 2026.
Bimbo Ademoye: Consistency Meets Craft
Bimbo Ademoye continues to appear on lists highlighting entertainers shaping the industry, and her inclusion here is no coincidence. Over the years, she has refined her storytelling skills and strengthened her screen presence, earning praise for both her versatility and brand positioning.
With no signs of slowing down, Ademoye enters 2026 as one of Nollywood’s most dependable performers, expected to remain a prominent face on screens throughout the year.
Fido: Building on Musical Momentum
Josiah Olayemi Awosika, popularly known as Fido, enjoyed a strong run in 2025, securing spots among emerging acts influencing Nigeria’s evolving sound. While no longer considered an underground artist, he remains in a growth phase.
Industry observers believe 2026 will see Fido consolidate his gains and make even bolder musical statements as he continues refining his artistry.
Genoveva Umeh: Rising Steadily on Screen
Since breaking out in the Netflix limited series Blood Sisters, Genoveva Umeh has steadily expanded her filmography with compelling performances. Each year has added to her credibility, and her upward trajectory shows no signs of slowing.
As new projects line up, Genoveva is widely regarded as one of the actresses likely to gain even more prominence in Nollywood this year.
Mike Afolarin and Uzoamaka Onuoha: Faces Defining a New Generation
Mike Afolarin has enjoyed consistent visibility since his breakout, featuring in multiple high-profile projects annually. His growing presence suggests 2026 will further cement his place among Nigeria’s leading young actors.
Similarly, Uzoamaka Onuoha, who gained initial recognition through Origin: Madam Koikoi, has gone on to deliver strong performances in projects like Inside Life and Agemo. Her rapid rise positions her as a familiar face on screens in 2026.
Looking Ahead
From music studios to film sets, the talents highlighted here reflect the diversity and depth of Nigeria’s creative ecosystem. Whether through fresh sounds, compelling storytelling, or reinvention, these entertainers are expected to play key roles in shaping conversations throughout 2026.
