Kannywood Stars: The 8 Rising Queens of Hausa Cinema
By Habiba Garba Vom
The Hausa-language film industry, fondly known as Kannywood, continues to flourish with a dazzling array of talented actresses redefining stardom in Northern Nigeria. These women are not only captivating audiences on screen but are also building brands, empowering communities, and shaping the future of African cinema. In this report by Entertainment Digest, meet the rising queens of Kannywood:
1. Jamila Umar Nagudu
Born on August 10, 1985, in Bauchi State, Jamila Nagudu began her career as a dancer in 2002 before rising to fame with the film Jamila da Jamilu. Known for her roles in romantic and comedic films like Farin Dare and Halisa, she has won multiple Best Actress awards and serves as a brand ambassador and entrepreneur.
A renowned Kannywood actress, often dubbed the “Queen of Kannywood,” Jamila is a mother and continues to be a key figure in Hausa cinema.
2. Hadiza Aliyu Gabon
Of Fulani descent, Hadiza Aliyu Gabon was born on June 1, 1989, and has emerged as one of Kannywood’s most decorated stars. She clinched the Best Actress award at the 2013 Best of Nollywood Awards. Beyond the screen, she is a philanthropist and founder of the Hadiza Gabon Foundation, while also managing her fashion brand, Beaute Naturelle.
3. Rahama Sadau
Born in Kaduna, Rahama Sadau rose to prominence in Kannywood before a controversial music video appearance in 2016 led to a brief ban from the industry. Undeterred, she transitioned to Nollywood and starred in acclaimed productions such as The Accidental Spy and Netflix’s Sylvia. A vocal advocate for women’s rights and education, Rahama embodies resilience and continues to inspire a new generation of storytellers.
4. Maryam Muhammad (Maryam Booth)
Born on October 28, 1993, in Kano, Maryam Booth comes from a family steeped in the arts—her mother, Zainab Booth, and brother, Ahmad Booth, are both veteran actors. Maryam made her acting debut at just eight years old and rose to fame with her role in In da So da Kauna (2007). In addition to her acting career, she is a successful entrepreneur, running the MBooth Beauty Parlour.
5. Nafisat Abdullahi
A powerhouse of talent, Nafisat Abdullahi was born on January 23, 1991, in Jos. She studied Theatre Arts at the University of Jos and later honed her photography skills in London. Her breakout role came in Sai Wata Rana, where she starred alongside Ali Nuhu. In 2021, she expanded her creative empire by launching her own makeup line.
6. Zainab Indomie
Born on May 17, 1996, in Abuja, Zainab Indomie began her acting career at the tender age of 12. Known for standout roles in To the Dark to the Light and Our City is Hot, she has quickly become one of the most recognizable faces in Kannywood, celebrated for her expressive performances and youthful energy.
7. Fati Washa
Fati Washa, born February 21, 1990, in Bauchi, is beloved for her comedic timing and vibrant personality. She gained widespread acclaim in the TV series Labarina and has starred in hits like Na Gaba and Makahon Gida. An alumna of the Federal College of Education in Kano, she is also known for her contributions to Hausa music.
8 Hauwa Waraka
Hailing from Jos and born in the 1990s, Hauwa Waraka made her mark with roles in Waraka and Gidan Badamasi. Her comedic brilliance and natural charisma have won her several accolades, earning her a place among the most promising comedic talents in Kannywood.
These stars are more than just screen icons—they are entrepreneurs, advocates, and trailblazers. Through talent, tenacity, and vision, they are reshaping the narrative of Northern Nigerian cinema and proving that the future of Kannywood is undeniably female.
Habiba Garba Vom is an intern at PRNigeria Centre. She can be reached at [email protected]
