These screenwriters are the brains behind some great Nollywood series on Netflix.nMeet the writers behind some of the biggest Nollywood Netflix series [Pulse Nigeria]
We’re pulling back the curtain to give credit to the brilliant writers behind some of your favorite Nollywood shows on Netflix.
Have you ever found yourself glued to a Nollywood series on Netflix, unable to look away? Whether it’s the shocking plot twists, the characters you can relate to, or those unforgettable moments that make you shout at your TV, there’s one group of unsung heroes behind it all: the screenwriters.
These are the creative minds who build the worlds we get lost in, craft the memorable dialogue we quote, and design the plots that keep us hooked. While actors and directors often get the limelight, it’s the screenwriters who are the true secret ingredient of every great series. They’re the architects of the stories, the masterminds behind the drama, and the ones who pour their hearts into making Nollywood shows on Netflix a must-watch.
Dami Elebe (Head Writer) – Far From Home
Dami Elebe is the talented writer behind hit web series like Skinny Girl in Transit and Rumour Has It. With a career spanning nearly a decade, Elebe has made her mark in the entertainment industry. She spent seven years as an on-air personality (OAP) at Classic FM, Beat FM, and Naija FM before transitioning to writing. She is also the writer of the film Up North.
Elebe’s latest work includes the Netflix series Far From Home, where she serves as head writer. The show follows a troubled teenager who, after winning a prestigious scholarship to an elite school, finds himself thrust into a world of luxury. As he navigates this new environment, he strives to rise to the top. The series boasts an impressive cast, including Mike Afolarin, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Adesua Etomi, Deyemi Okalawon, and Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha.
Craig Freimond, Yinka Ogun, Heidi Uys – Oloture: The Journey
Craig is a writer and director specializing in theatre, film, and television. With over twelve years of experience, he made significant contributions to the renowned daily drama Rhythm City, where he wrote hundreds of episodes and stories, in addition to serving as a script and story editor. His other notable works include Jozi and Material.
Yinka Ogun is an experienced writer and filmmaker, with an extensive portfolio that includes Òlòtūré, Your Excellency, Abeni, Maroko, and A Little White Lie.
Heidi Uys, with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Drama, is the Head of Programming and Creative Producer at EbonyLife Media. She is known for her work on Helen on Her Own (2005), The Royal Hibiscus Hotel (2017), and A Sunday Affair (2023).
Zelipa Zulu, Craig Freimond, Temidayo Makunjuola – Blood Sisters 
This trio is behind one of the most successful Netflix series to emerge from Nigeria. Zelipa Zulu is a UK-based screenwriter, script editor, story liner, and concept creator with 15 years of experience in film and television. Craig, a writer and director with expertise in theatre, film, and television, spent over twelve years at the acclaimed daily drama Rhythm City, where he wrote hundreds of episodes and stories, and worked as a script and story editor. His credits also include Jozi and Material. Makunjuola is a producer known for her work on The Royal Hibiscus Hotel, Òlòtūré, and A Night in 2005, which she wrote and directed.
Xavier Ighorodje – Shanty Town
Xavier Ighorodje is an award-winning screenwriter and producer, best known as the creator and head writer of the Netflix hit series Shanty Town. As of July 2023, Shanty Town became the second most-watched African Original TV series on Netflix across the continent, and the most-watched African Original in Nigeria that year, with over 20 million views. It was also the most-nominated TV series at the 9th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2023. The crime thriller follows the story of a gang leader involved in illicit activities, who finds himself trapped in a dangerous situation involving rivals after a run-in with some hustlers. Released on Netflix on January 20, 2023, Shanty Town stars Chidi Mokeme, Ini Edo, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Sola Sobowale, Nancy Isime, Shaffy Bello, and Ali Nuhu.
Bolu Essien – Becoming Abi 
Bolu Essien is an actress, writer, director, and producer. Her debut long-form project, Becoming Abi, is a 6-part dramedy series inspired by her own experiences working in one of Nigeria’s digital advertising agencies. The series delves into themes such as love, betrayal, office politics, career advancement, and the complexities of navigating the fast-paced world of advertising. Although this marks her first venture into long-form content, Bolu’s creativity shines through. With Becoming Abi being exclusively licensed to Netflix for a global release, it’s clear that her journey is just beginning. The series features Bolu Essien in the lead role of Abi, alongside a talented cast of industry veterans including Idowu Philips (aka Iya Rainbow), Biodun Stephen, Stan Nze, Akah Nnani, Seun Ajayi, Juliana Olayode, Ifeanyi Kalu, Opeyemi Akintunde, and Benita A Okojie.
