The Nigerian movie industry, popularly known as Nollywood, is one of the largest film industries in the world both in terms of volume of movies produced and employment opportunities. Every year, thousands of movies are released, and millions of Nigerians and global audiences watch Nollywood stars perform on the big and small screens.

But one of the most commonly asked questions about the industry is How much does a Nollywood actor earn per movie in Nigeria in 2025?

This comprehensive guide answers that question thoroughly, comparing earnings for top stars, mid-level actors, and newcomers in Nollywood today. We also explore what influences these earnings, what other benefits actors receive, and how the pay differs across genres and platforms.

Whether you’re an aspiring actor, a film enthusiast, a researcher, or just curious, this article gives you a clear understanding of the salary structure of Nollywood actors in 2025.

Why Nollywood is a Major Industry

Nollywood is not just entertainment; it is a billion-dollar industry that employs thousands of people, from producers to actors, directors, writers, and crew members. According to the Nigerian government, Nollywood contributes over $7 billion to Nigeria’s GDP annually and ranks as the second-largest employer after agriculture.

With more exposure, international collaborations, and streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and YouTube entering the Nigerian market, actor paychecks have become more competitive and diverse.

Overview of Nollywood Actor Salaries in 2025

In 2025, the pay per movie varies greatly, depending on an actor’s popularity, experience, and the movie’s budget. Broadly:

• Top-tier actors (A-list): ₦2 million – ₦15 million per movie

• Mid-level actors: ₦500,000 – ₦2 million per movie

• Upcoming actors: ₦50,000 – ₦300,000 per movie

These figures may rise when movies are big-budget productions or are produced for cinema and streaming platforms rather than just for home videos.

Factors That Determine How Much an Actor Earns Per Movie

Several factors influence an actor’s earnings:

• Experience and Popularity: Well-known actors command higher fees.

• Movie Budget: Bigger budgets mean better pay.

• Platform of Release: Cinema and streaming releases pay more.

• Negotiation Skills: Experienced actors and their managers negotiate better contracts.

• Genre: Epic and high-action films may pay more due to complexity and longer production times.

Categories of Nollywood Actors and Their Pay

Let’s explore each category of actors in detail.

Top-tier (A-list) Actors

These are household names with strong fan followings, awards, and years of experience. Examples include Genevieve Nnaji, Ramsey Nouah, Funke Akindele, Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), and Mercy Johnson.

Typical earnings per movie: ₦2 million – ₦15 million

In some exceptional productions, some actors have earned even higher.

Mid-level Actors

These actors are moderately popular and experienced but not quite A-list. They often appear as lead or supporting actors.

Typical earnings per movie: ₦500,000 – ₦2 million

These actors work steadily and often appear in many productions annually.

Upcoming Actors

These are newcomers or lesser-known talents trying to build their reputation and portfolio.

Typical earnings per movie: ₦50,000 – ₦300,000

In some low-budget productions, actors may even work for free or just receive a stipend for transportation and food.

How Much Do A-list Nollywood Actors Earn?

Top stars are the highest paid and often negotiate royalties or additional perks. Some, like Genevieve Nnaji and Funke Akindele, have earned more than ₦20 million from high-profile projects, particularly those on Netflix and cinema releases.

They also receive:

• Travel and accommodation allowances

• Wardrobe and makeup budgets

• Percentage of box office (rare but possible)

How Much Do Mid-Level Nollywood Actors Earn?

These actors earn significantly more than newcomers but less than A-listers. They often appear in major supporting roles or leads in medium-budget movies.

They may earn:

• Between ₦500,000 and ₦2 million

• Bonuses if the movie performs well

• Opportunities to move up into A-list through consistent good performance

How Much Do Newcomers Earn in Nollywood?

For beginners, pay can be quite modest:

• ₦50,000 – ₦300,000 per movie

• Non-monetary benefits: exposure, networking, and experience

Some even act for free just to appear in a few movies and gain recognition.

Earnings Across Genres: Comedy, Drama, and Epic Movies

• Epic movies: Often pay more because of longer shooting periods, elaborate costumes, and locations.

• Comedies and dramas: Pay varies but tends to be average unless the movie is backed by a big producer.

• Action films: Higher pay due to stunts and special training required.

Earnings on Streaming Platforms vs. Cinema Releases

With platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Showmax acquiring Nigerian movies, actors involved in such projects often receive higher pay due to international budgets and exposure.

For example:

• A Netflix original production may pay A-list actors ₦5m–₦20m.

• Cinema releases also tend to offer better remuneration than traditional home videos.

Other Income Sources for Nollywood Actors

Apart from movie fees, Nollywood actors earn through:

• Endorsement deals (sometimes more than movie pay)

• Social media influencing

• Appearances at events

• Personal businesses

• Production or directing

Challenges in Nollywood Actor Salaries

While the industry has grown, actors still face:

• Irregular pay (some are underpaid or not paid on time)

• Exploitation of upcoming actors

• Lack of standard contracts in smaller productions

• Piracy affecting movie revenues

Summary Table: Nollywood Actor Earnings Per Movie (2025)

FAQs About Nollywood Actor Earnings in Nigeria

1. Who is the highest paid Nollywood actor in 2025?

Actors like Genevieve Nnaji, Funke Akindele, and Ramsey Nouah are among the highest-paid, earning over ₦15m per movie in big-budget productions.

2. How much does a newcomer earn in Nollywood?

New actors earn around ₦50,000 – ₦300,000 per movie, depending on the production and their role.

3. Do Nollywood actors get royalties?

In some cases, yes — especially in international deals or where contracts specify profit-sharing.

4. Which genre pays the most in Nollywood?

Epic and big-budget action films tend to pay more due to the complexity and cost of production.

5. Does appearing in a Netflix movie pay more?

Yes. Netflix-backed movies often have higher budgets, and actors in such projects earn premium rates.

6. Do actors earn more in cinema-released movies?

Generally, yes — cinema movies have bigger budgets and often pay more than traditional home video productions.

7. Are actors paid before or after shooting?

It depends on the contract — some are paid upfront, others after production, or in installments.

8. What other ways do actors make money?

Endorsements, influencing, production, and side businesses supplement their income.

9. Why are some actors underpaid?

Factors include low-budget films, inexperience, poor negotiation, and lack of unionized wage standards.

10. How can one become an A-list Nollywood actor?

Through consistent good performance, networking, building a brand, and taking roles in high-profile productions.

Conclusion

Nollywood has grown to become a significant part of Nigeria’s economy and cultural identity, and the earnings of its actors reflect the industry’s progress.

In 2025, A-list actors continue to earn millions per movie, while mid-level and newcomers still earn competitive but modest fees. Big-budget projects, cinema releases, and streaming deals have pushed salaries higher, especially for established stars.

If you aspire to join Nollywood, understanding the salary structure helps you set realistic expectations, plan your career path, and negotiate better deals.

Keep in mind that success in Nollywood is not just about talent but also about branding, networking, and choosing the right opportunities.