2025 Week 43 Men Crush Monday - Niyi Akinmolayan

Niyi Akinmolayan is one of Nollywood’s most visionary directors, celebrated for his bold storytelling, technical precision, and ability to turn ideas into powerful cinematic experiences. A filmmaker, writer, and creative entrepreneur, he has become one of the defining voices of modern Nigerian cinema.

A graduate of Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Yaba College of Technology, Niyi took an unconventional path into film, driven by curiosity and creativity. He started as a graphics designer and visual effects artist before founding Anthill Studios, a full-service creative hub that has become a powerhouse for post-production, animation, and original filmmaking in Nigeria.

Over the years, Niyi has directed and produced several box office hits and fan favorites including The Wedding Party 2, Chief Daddy, Prophetess, The House of Secrets, and My Mother Is A Witch. Each project reflects his knack for blending entertainment with emotion, while pushing Nollywood’s visual and technical standards to new heights.

His upcoming film, Colours of Fire, is already generating major buzz ahead of its December 24, 2025 cinema release. The film stars an exceptional ensemble which includes Uzor Arukwe, Osas Ighodaro, Gabriel Afolayan, Femi Branch, Mercy Aigbe, and Ibrahim Chatta and promises a gripping mix of passion, conflict, and transformation. With Colours of Fire, Niyi once again proves that his creative reach goes beyond storytelling, it’s about shaping how Africa is seen on screen.

As a mentor and advocate for young filmmakers, Niyi continues to nurture the next generation through Anthill Studios, providing training, production experience, and a platform for new voices. His journey embodies persistence, reinvention, and purpose, showing that true creativity thrives where vision meets discipline.

Niyi Akinmolayan isn’t just making movies; he’s building a legacy that’s inspiring filmmakers across the continent to dream bigger and tell stories that travel further.