In the spirit of the Olympic Games, we’ve compiled a list of Nollywood films that touch on sports (at least, to some degree). While many of these films showcase remarkable individuals striving to excel in various games, they mainly reveal the tough realities of average Nigerians trying to participate in sports in a country with underdeveloped infrastructure.

Here are 7 sport-themed Nollywood films you should definitely know about:

1. Onye Egwu

Onye Egwu follows Alex Mbanefo (Zubby Michael), a famous international football player who sustains a career-changing injury and embarks on a spiritual journey to rediscover his passion for the sport he loves.

With Uche Jombo in the director’s seat, the film features a diverse and star-studded cast list that includes Uche Jombo, Ini Edo, Lateef Adedimeji, Kayode Ojuolape, Emeka Nwagbaraocha, Toyin Abraham, Chioma Akpotha, Big Brother Naija’s Tacha Akide, and Samuel “Broda Shagi” Perry.

It is available on Prime Video.

2. Aburo

Aburo (Maleek Sanni of the Ikorodu Bois) is a street kid whose life takes a different turn after he steals from a former international athlete. As the boy speeds off with his wallet, Mide (Ifa Iwara) recognizes his exceptional sprinting skills and vows to help him fulfill his potential. However, the two of them must deal with the problems of Aburo’s harsh background (e.g., a crime lord and financial troubles). Aburo (2024) is directed by Yemi “Filmboy” Morafa and stars Toni Tones, Darasimi Nadi, Wunmi Toriola, and Yemi Cregx in supporting roles.

3. Funke

Funke’s mother (Seun Omojola) wants her in the kitchen, her father (Jide Kosoko) wants her to become a lawyer, and everybody else seems to have their own ideas on who she should be. But all Funke herself (Miracle Inyanda) wants is to become a footballer.

In Yemi “Filmboy” Morafa’s FUNKE! (2018), a comedy set in 1996, we’re given an oddly realistic view into the lives of young girls who must overcome societal expectations in order to pursue their dreams.

4. Up North

Tope Oshin’s Up North (2018) takes us on a comical adventure with Bassey (Banky Wellington), a rich man’s son who must complete his 1-year program in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) before he can take over the family business. When Bassey is deployed to Bauchi State, he finds love, friendship, and an unexpected purpose in training his female students to compete in a state running competition.

Up North (2018) also stars Ibrahim Suleiman, Rahama Sadau, Kanayo O. Kanayo, and Adesua Etomi-Wellington. It bagged 3 nominations at the 2019 African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA). You can watch it on Netflix.

5. White Waters

Izu Ojukwu’s 2007 classic follows Melvin (OC Ukeje), an academically challenged youngster who is sent to live with his sick grandmother (Joke Silva) in the village when his mother and stepfather can no longer handle him. Melvin’s remarkable speed is soon discovered, and he is invited to join the state track team, where he stands out and finds love.

White Waters (2007) is OC Ukeje’s first film, filmed after he won the second edition of the Amstel Malta Box Office. It earned 12 nominations and 4 awards at the 2008 African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA).

6. Prophetess

After “Prophetess” Ajoke (Toyin Abraham) makes a few lucky guesses on camera, she lands herself in a tight spot as people now believe she has genuine prophetic powers, and she doesn’t know when to stop.

Niyi Akimolayan’s Prophetess (2021) is an ambitious comedy that tackles big sports betting issues with a lighthearted approach. After all, who is to blame if people get themselves in trouble because of Ajoke’s false predictions—the prophetess or themselves?

Lateef Adedimeji, Kehinde Bankole, Uzor Arukwe, and other stars feature in the film. You can watch it on Netflix.

7. Maami

When Kashimawo (Wole Ojo), an international football star, returns to Nigeria right before the 2010 World Cup, he must deal with his painful past, estranged father, and memories of his mother (Funke Akindele), a kindhearted but strict woman who raised him amidst abject poverty.

Maami (2010) is a tearjerker that highlights a mother’s unconditional love for her child and the effects of her sacrifices on his life.

The film is directed by Tunde Kelani and based on a novel by Femi Osofisan. Iit earned 4 nominations at the 2011 African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA).

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