Nollywood is Nigeria’s most lucrative industry. The Nigerian movie industry has outperformed Africa’s track record, and it has also gone global, ranking as the world’s third most successful industry.
With all of the glitz and glamour the industry exudes, it’s no surprise that many young people want to be a part of it somehow.
There are only two guaranteed ways to break into the industry;
- To be extremely talented
- Have strong connections.
It is no secret that many people get exploited in their quest to make it in the industry. There are a lot of wolves out there looking for naive people to devour.
When you choose to follow this path to fame, you must exercise extreme caution, especially in the early stages.
The Nollywood industry is not without its challenges. But the competition is fierce, and no matter how talented you are, you will likely be relegated to the background if you do not have a solid strategy.
Every successful actor or actress on the big screen today has an untold backstory.
Only 10% were fortunate to strike it big on their first try. The rest experienced setbacks, rejections, and disappointment.
And, if you want to be as successful as they are, you should brace yourself for your fair share.
Table of contents
How to Become a Nollywood Actor or Actress in Nigeria
Thousands of people who could have made it big in the industry but didn’t have the right connections or follow the proper procedures have faded into obscurity.
If you believe you have what it takes to be Nollywood’s next big thing, you must be willing to take on a lot of challenges, seize opportunities, and do whatever is legally possible to make that dream a reality.
The following are the steps to take to achieve your Nollywood goal:
- Register for Auditions
- Be Talented
- Attend Acting Classes
- Make Online Skits
- Sign Up with an Agency
- Join The Actors Guide of Nigeria (AGN)
- Network with Directors and Producers
- Be Adaptable
- Maintain Consistency
- Volunteer
Register for Auditions
Attending auditions allows you to showcase your talent to the right audience.
Industry heavyweights sometimes attend these auditions, and if you prove yourself to be an exceptional actress, you stand a chance of being cast.
Always keep your ears to the ground because an audition occurs somewhere. Attend as many as you can until you find one that provides you with your big hit.
You cannot make it from the comfort of your room. Go out there and show the world what you’re made of.
Some auditions are held in person, while others are stored online. In any case, never pass up an opportunity to showcase your talent.
Be Talented
Your talent will propel you to the top and keep you there.
You are unlikely to fall victim to movie directors or producers looking for someone to exploit when you have a unique talent.
You have no place in the film industry if you lack acting talent. The excellent news about talent is that it can be acquired and developed through consistent practice and hard work, even if you aren’t born with it.
Attend Acting Classes
Attending acting classes is a great way to improve your acting abilities.
Natural talent, on the other hand, is unrivalled. Raw talent is exceptional, and it keeps you ahead of the competition.
Make Online Skits
Social media is the most effective way to market yourself. Make yourself available on all of Nigeria’s popular platforms, such as; Facebook.
- YouTube
- Tiktok, among others.
You can work with another aspiring actor to create videos and maintain a consistent online presence. If your content is exceptionally engaging, it will almost certainly go viral, Thus, granting you much-needed recognition.
Sign Up with an Agency
You can join several talent agencies to put yourself in front of opportunities.
Freelancing may not be a good fit for you as an aspiring actor or actress. You’d need to identify with a body to have some backup.
Movie directors and producers may approach the heads of these agencies to recommend someone for a role. Now, if you have consistently demonstrated your worth and talent during your stay in the agency, you will undoubtedly be on the recommended list.
Join The Actors Guide of Nigeria (AGN)
The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) is the governing body of the Nigerian film industry. Its primary goal is to safeguard the rights of all actors and actresses.
Joining this organization is a sure way to get noticed. Because you are in constant contact with the industry’s real deal, you can seize the opportunity to make connections that will propel your career.
In addition, the AGN is the proper body to report any exploitation or molestation.
The AGN frowns vehemently on this, and anyone who defaults in this area will face severe consequences.
The registration fee to join the Actors Guide of Nigeria (AGN) is ₦18,500 as of the time of writing.
Network with Directors and Producers
As previously stated, connections are one of the two guaranteed mediums for entering the industry.
Please do everything you can to get the proper connection; it will be well worth it.
You can use social media to follow an actor, producer, or director you admire. Engage in anything they post on their platform.
If you are a woman, you have a better chance of being recognized.
It is no secret that many ladies are eager to give up their bodies in exchange for the industry’s popularity. Even after “using what they had to acquire what they wanted,” these desperate ladies are sometimes abandoned.
Be Adaptable
When you have a raw skill, adaptability comes effortlessly to you.
It would be best to broaden your skillset and not limit yourself to a single niche, as this would be a limitation.
Please make yourself available whenever it is required. It would be unwise for an aspiring actor or actress to turn down any role, no matter how tiny. Who knows, maybe this minor role will propel you to greater heights.
Almost all of the famous names you hear today began with minor roles, some even as extras, but since they put all of their talents into these roles, they could advance to the successive league.
Maintain Consistency
“If you linger around the barbershop long enough, you’ll receive a free haircut,” as the adage goes.
The key to success is consistency. It includes perseverance in the face of rejection and attending auditions even if you don’t ‘look the part.’
If you are genuinely dedicated to your acting career, you should take advantage of every opportunity to study and improve your abilities.
Volunteer
Volunteer to help on set if possible so you can gain as much experience as possible.
Continue to push; the more setbacks you face, the more determined you should become.
Tips for Nollywood Film Audition
- Make an Excellent First Impression
- Be in Character
- Be Self-Assured
- Be On Time
Even if the position is only for one individual, you won’t be the only one at the audition. There could be other auditioners there with more talent than you.
Regardless, the following are some precautions you should take to ensure that you are the one called back for the role:
Make an Excellent First Impression
First impressions are everything. On your first day, you must be conscious of what you wear, how you speak, and what you do.
Do not let your reflexes acts embarrass you. If you have a good body, flaunt it; the industry wants to see it.
Be in Character
If you’ve been given a script beforehand, try practising your character. Memorize your lines so you don’t stutter and must rely on your hand during your auditions.
Show the crew that you are the ideal choice since they want to see a natural actor.
Be Self-Assured
Do not be frightened to interact with others. Keep your face up; the industry is not for shy people.
When it isn’t your moment to take the stage, you can chat with a key team member.
Also, remember always to wear a smile. There should be no signs of anxiousness in your posture or body language.
Be On Time
If your audition begins at 8:00 a.m., arrive by 7:30 a.m. Even so, you’d meet those who came before you.
Some judges consider punctuality; if you are late, some marks will be deducted from your overall score. How can they trust you to arrive early for a shoot if you can’t even arrive early for an interview?
Film Academy in Nigeria and School Fees
Here is the list of Nollywood film academies in Nigeria and their school fees;
| Film Academy | State | School Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Art Academy | Lagos & Uyo | ₦123,500 |
| Del-York Creative Academy | Lagos | $1500 – $3000 |
| Mount Zion Institute Of Christian Drama | Osun | ₦60,000 – 180,000 |
| National Film Institute | Lagos, Kano, Abuja & Umuahia | Free |
| Magnus Film Academy (MFA) | Enugu | ₦40,000 – 100,000 |
| PEFTI Film Institute | Lagos & Ibadan | ₦85,000 – 285,000 |
| Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts (LAPA) | Lagos | ₦1,200,000 |
| High Definition (HD) Film Academy | Abuja | Not Specified |
| Ai Multimedia Academy | Lagos | ₦68,000 |
| The Heritage Film Academy | Lagos | ₦120,000 |
Film Academy Courses
Here is the list of courses offered in Nigerian film academies;
- 3D Animation
- Makeup and Special Effects
- Acting and Film
- Broadcast and Journalism
- Cinematography and Set Lighting
- Colouring and Grading
- Introduction to Theatre Production
- Producing and the Business of Filmmaking
- Acting For Film (On-Premise)
- Screenwriting (On-Premise)
- Cinematography & Set Lighting
- Digital Content Creation & Social Media Influencing
- Public Relations & Media Communications
- Colouring & Grading
- VFX
- Digital Marketing
- Photography
- Fashion, Arts & Craft
- Directing
- Drones
- Film Editing
- Intro To Theatre Production
- Music Video Production
- Costume & Set Design
- Producing & The Business of Filmmaking
- Sound Design & Scoring For Film
Conclusion
From the outside, the Nollywood business appears inviting and tempting.
But, honestly, getting in would entail a lot of labour and sacrifice.
If your desire is not strong enough, you will most likely abandon the pursuit before you reach the jackpot.
Many Nigerians dream of being Nollywood’s next great name, but many don’t know how to get there.
As a result, this article serves as a thorough reference to all the advice you’ll need in your journey to fame.
Let me know if you have any questions or need further clarification. I would love to assist you.
You can watch my videos on the Studentship YouTube Channel by clicking here.
Join my Facebook Group for more interactive discussions.
Good evening ma/sir, am prince from delta state, i love acting since i was a child, please can i get any help from you,, i would be grateful if i hear from you
I would like to join, that has been my career since while I was in primary school level to secondary School level please if you can help me to get connected to Nollywood industry management because I am well talented in acting please help me and how can i get registered
Please i love acting Yoruba play please I need someone to sponsor me
It has always been my dream to become an actor please how can I get registered
If you are interested in becoming an actor in Nollywood, the following steps may help you get started:
1. Develop your acting skills: Acting is a craft that requires talent, passion, and dedication. Take acting classes, workshops, and join a drama group to hone your skills and gain experience.
2. Build your network: Networking is crucial in the entertainment industry. Attend industry events, connect with other actors, directors, and producers to build your network and get exposure.
3. Create a portfolio: Create a professional portfolio that showcases your talent, experience, and skills. Include your headshot, resume, and showreel.
4. Audition for roles: Keep an eye out for audition notices and submit your portfolio for consideration. Be prepared to audition for multiple roles before landing your first acting job.
5. Join a talent agency: Talent agencies can help you find auditions and negotiate contracts. Research reputable talent agencies in Nigeria and submit your portfolio for representation.
6. Be persistent and patient: The entertainment industry can be competitive and challenging. Be persistent, patient, and open to feedback and opportunities.
7. Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with industry news, trends, and events. Subscribe to industry publications, follow industry experts on social media, and attend industry events to stay informed.
Hello everyone
My name is Freeman Miracle
Am from River’s state Nigeria
Am 18 years old
I’m an aspiring actress doing my best to be favored
I love acting and it’s part of me ever since I was a child
And I have been praying also for God’s intervention
I believe that one day I would make it there😊
I really want to be part of the Nollywood actress
Am Joshua David, my dream is to be a actor I can act very well and I have that talent & skills to play a role in movies I act so many drama at churches like (RCCG, C. Embassy)and some local churches too if I can get any movie industry and register go for auditions I will love it cause I really love acting ❤️
Good day my name is Adams abdulwahab I have alway want to be an actor and acting have been my number one priority and I pray God help me one day
hello everyone, i’m David Aniekan Ekwere, im from akwa ibom state i love acting since my childhood but i don’t have connections except God whom i am serving and i dont have a sponsor in my dream acting
My name is Mohammed.
I’m 16 years old boy, I’m a Ghanaian in Accra I have the passion to act, it’s because my dream was to be a Nollywood actor. I always pray to God to help to achieve my goals I’m good at comedy. I need someone to help me to achieve my goals and I promise I’m going to act well as possible. thank You
My name is edosa MARVELOUS am 17 years my interests is to become an actor l will be tell greatful if any one can help me register in a production industry
I want to join Agn once I come back to Nigeria, please give me the contact
The corporate headquarter is located at Suite 29, Block 2, N.C.A.C, Artiste Village, National Theatre, Iganmu – Lagos.
My name is Mohammed my dream is to be a Nollywood actor I’m a Ghanaian in Accra I stay at kings by runabout.
I am 16 years old boy I want someone to register for me to join the Nollywood Industry, please. I pray to God to let someone help me to register, I Know God will me do this. thank you
Gudday Ma/Sir, i would love to enroll as an Actress, pls if there’s an opportunity i will be grateful.
What State do you reside in?
Am in Lagos state ma
Visit any of the film academies for further assistance.
ove acarting
Hello ma/sir , I would love to enroll as an actor and I write movies ,please sir if there is an opportunity please I will be very grateful
Ma or sir please I want to be an Attress but I don’t know who is going to help me please I really want to become an Atress, thanks.
What’s your location?
Uganda Rubaga
How do I go about it? Pls I am interested. I have all it takes to become an actress.
Delta State
There are plenty of opportunities at Asaba.
I want to become an nolly wood
I’m Michael Ay on every social media
And I make comedy skit and post them
I’m interested in acting, pls how do I register for audition I need help
Hello Michael,
I recommend that you follow celebrities. They post auditions from time to time.
I’m Michael Ay on every social media
And I make comedy skit and post them
I’m interested in acting, pls how do I register for audition.
My name is ayomide my dream is to be an actor infact I make comedy skit and post them on YouTube and tiktok, how can I register
hello i wish to become an actor but no connection and i have a good stories to tell if i can meet the director or producer i will be so glad to tell my story
Hello Sodiq,
Follow the instructions written in the post.
Also, you can start from where you are. Join drama clubs, movie academies, e.t.c
You should also follow actors and actresses on Instagram. They sometimes post about auditions.
If you can also move to Lagos, you’ll find more opportunities.
I hope you find this helpful.
Hello I always dream of becoming a nollywood actor I will be so happy if given an opportunity
Dear Regina,
I hope you are having a great day. You can become an amazing actress if you follow the directive in this post. I also recommend you join a film academy and follow well-known Nigerian actors and actresses on Instagram.
They post auditions from time to time.
I really like to become and actress pls can you help
Dear Jenny,
You can follow the direction in the post. I also recommend you follow Actors and Actresses on Instagram. They post acting opportunities on their page whenever it comes up.
Owk tnk u
My name is Mohammed you can also call me King Jock I wanna be a Nollywood actor I’m 16 years old boy. I’m a Ghanaian In Accra please I need help. I always pray to God to help me to Achieve my goals.
Hi my name is Damaris Kingsley
Promising to work hard in other to meet up the objectives of Nollyhood industry if I will be granted this golden opportunity of joining the Nollyhood family as an actress.
Nollyhood, forever the best.
I will be expecting a reply thank you.
Dear Damaris,
It is great that you want to devote yourself to acting. I recommend you join an art theatre and audition for roles.
Hi. I want to be a Nollywood actor I am 16 years old boy I am a Ghanaian in Accra I have the passion to act well as possible.
My name is Emmanuel Gyachie, I am 19 years old, am from Ghana.
I’m a student at cape coast (Efutu) Senior High Technical school,
Please I want to become an actor.
I can act very well
So please help me this is my phone number+233257236205
Greetings.
I noticed all the responses was directed at auditioning first but no reference was given to how to get into Auditions. Please can you kindly and helpfully give us a link or address for any audition / offices that audition for movies ? It will really be a great help to all.
Please if it is meant for direct contact, please forward details to me via
elakebak@yahoo.com
Thank you very much.
Dear Francis,
It would seem the Nollywood Auditioning form has been sold out. But I suggest you join a film academy. You’ll get auditions faster there.
Please I want to be an actress.. I have neva gone for audition before.. please it has always been my dream.
I’ve always aspired to be an actress, though I’ve never auditioned or taken part in any form of drama due to some personal issues plus I’m the shy type… I just love everything about acting when it comes to it and I believe because its a passion that has been burning in me, I can overcome my shyness and when my personal issues go away, I’ll make sure I pursuit it. Someone suggested screenwriting cause I’m kind of a writer but I’m not sure I know my way about it, I’ve never seen a movie script before so I don’t know where and how to begin, I’m kindly asking for assistance on that part, thank you.
Yes help me out
I’m usman Joyce otinu I love acting it’s my dream but don’t know how to get the opportunity into the nollywood industry will so much appreciated if you can help me please 🥺🙏
Being a actress is always my dream but I don’t know how and why to talk to please i need this opportunity
I always dream of becoming a nollywood actor I will be so happy if given an opportunity
I love to become an actor since i was a little boy till now. My friend told me to follow up my life call me uzondu david egbufor. Please help me to add me to the nollywood actor and actress. I need your help please. Thank you.
Becoming an actor has been my best wish ever since I was little,
And I have gone for an audition which I’m still attending up to now.
But I pray if I see a bigger opportunity I’ll be grateful.
I really want to be an actress in nollywood, and i will be very grateful if am given the opportunity to become an actress in nollywood industry.
It has always been my dream to be an actress in Nollywood and I promise myself to achieve that goal, please sir I need help and I will be very grateful if I am given the opportunity to act.
It has always been my dream of being an actress, right back in my childhood days,I used to perform dramas school, will be so happy if I’m giving the opportunity.
Reply
please sir or Ma help me I always want to become an actress but I don’t know who to meet please
I always love to become an actress it has been my dream but I don’t know who to meet or talk to please sir or Ma I really want to join thanks
My name is rosemary shaibu i am intrested in acting please i need your support to join nollywood
Ite never attended a movie audition before at port hacourt PLEASE HELP ME.
I’ve never attended a movie audition in Port Harcourt.
I’ll always pursuite my purpose of being a nollywood actor and i’ll never give up or listing to what people may say about me until i achieve my goal of being an actor. PLEASE I NEED HELP IN BECOMING AN ACTOR.
Becoming an actor has been my best wish ever since I was Little,
And I have gone to an audition which I’m still attending up to now, but I pray if I see a bigger opportunity that day will be my happiest day in this life.
YES. Am from rivers state i know that by the grace of [GOD] if this opportunity is given to me i’ll be very happy. Because being a movie actor has been my dream ever since i was born, and also my talent and gift. And i’ll keep trying until i achieve my goal. PLEASE I NEED YOUR HELP IN BECOMING A MOVIE ACTOR.
Hello Paulinus,
Have you attended a movie audition at Port Harcourt?
What experience do you have with acting?
Look am tens heip me out i have something to let the world kown
What’s your state of residence?
I love this exercise, it has always been my dream to become an actress in nollywood industry but no opportunity. Please I need help.
God will make it come to pass
I will love to be an actor I have the talent please this is my number
Hello .
Am sara > would like to join movie industry, it’s been my dream .but no chance for me.if there is any way for me I will be glad and happy.
Thanks
I would love to be an actor my names are
Peter oluwatobiloba olawunmi..
And here is also my whatsapp line
I will love to become an actress it has been my dream since even before I finished secondary School please help
Veronica,
What’s your location?
Have you tried joining an acting school or auditioning for movies?
I will really like to be an actress in the Nollywood movie because it has be my dream since when I was a child if I will be granted this opportunity my na
I always love to become an actress it has been my dream but I don’t know who to meet or talk to please sir or Ma I really want to join thanks
Yes
Yes like to become a Nigeria Nollywood actor please help me
Yes
My name is Mohammed, I also want to be a Nigerian Nollywood actor that was my dream I also need help to achieve it.
thank you.
Yes I love these exercises and I will like to follow up to pursue my dreams to become a successful actor in Nigeria noollywood
I love these exercise.
I will like to follow up too.
It has always been my dream of being an actor right back in my childhood days,I used to perform dramas in my church and school, will be so happy if I’m giving the opportunity.
I also like to join that has been my career since while I was in premary school level to secondary School level please if you can help me to get connected to Nollywood industry management because I am well talented in acting please help me
How can I register
Hi am Nwachukwu Gift by name from Abia state. I love acting and I will like to be one of the actress in Nigeria, I need a sponsor
Hi Nwachukwu Gift, it’s great to hear that you are passionate about acting and aspire to become an actress in Nigeria. However, finding a sponsor in the entertainment industry can be challenging and may not be the most reliable way to achieve your goals. Here are some steps you can take to start building your acting career:
1. Get trained: Look for reputable acting schools or workshops in your area to improve your acting skills.
2. Build your portfolio: Start building your acting portfolio by performing in school or community theatre productions, short films, or student films. You can also create your content by filming skits or monologues and posting them on social media.
3. Network: Attend industry events, join acting groups, and connect with industry professionals on social media. This can help you meet people who can help you further your career.
4. Audition: Look out for audition notices and attend as many as possible. This will help you gain exposure and improve your chances of landing a role.
5. Be persistent: Building a career in the entertainment industry can take time, so be persistent and keep working hard towards your goals.
Remember, success in the entertainment industry requires hard work, determination, and patience.
Focus on improving your skills and building your portfolio, and with time, you may attract the attention of sponsors or other industry professionals who can help you achieve your goals.
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Hi am Nwachukwu Gift by name from Abia state. I love acting and I will like to be one of the actress in Nigeria, I need a sponsor