“Two captains cannot sail a ship” is a common saying, however, does it apply in filmmaking? Quite a number of films have more than one director, and Nollywood films are no exception. From Funke Akindele and then-husband JJC Skillz to Tope Adebayo and Adebayo Tijani, we have had a couple of directors in the industry who have made films together.

1. King of Thieves (2022)

Directed by: Tope Adebayo and Adebayo Tijani

This film, also known as Agesinkole, stars Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, Toyin Abraham and Broda Shaggi. It follows the story of the titular character, Agesinkole terrorizing the kingdom of Ajeromi. The kingdom then looks for any means possible—witchcraft, hunting and other spiritual mechanisms—to stop the bandit from wreaking havoc. The combination of both directors might have contributed to the film’s success, as the turned out to be a box office success. Even more interesting is the fact that it was the first Nollywood Non-English film that crosses the 250 million naira box office mark.

2. Ijakumo (2022)

Directed by: Adebayo Tijani and Steve Sodiya

This film was produced by Toyin Abraham, and she stars together with Kunle Remi and Olumide Oworu. It tells the story of a pastor who starts a relationship with the lead singer in his church after discovering that she is his favorite stripper. This film was also a box success hit, and was proof that Toyin Abraham could achieve the feat with a non-comedy film.

3. Battle on Buka Street (2022)

Directed by: Funke Akindele, Tobi Makinde

In Battle on Buka Street, we are introduced to a polygamous family with a lot of rivalry. The biggest rivalry is between step sisters, each wanting to be the biggest food vendor on Buka street. Battle on Buka street and Omo Ghetto (The Saga) make Funke Akindele the Director with the highest grossing Nollywood films with these films ranking first and second respectively. 

4. The Wait (2022)

Directed by: Fiyin Gambo and Yemi Morafa

The Wait is a faith-based film adapted from Yewande Zaccheaus’ book “God’s Waiting Room”.  It tells the story of different people waiting for a breakthrough in their romantic life, career and other life areas.

5. Dwindle (2021)

Directed by: Kayode Kasum and Dare Olaitan

Dwindle is a comedy film starring Funke Akindele, Bisola Iyeola, Broda Shaggi amongst others. Two friends Sogo and Buta, steal a car and start a cab business, but things go south when their paths cross with assassins and kidnappers. 

6. Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020)

Directed by: Funke Akindele And JJC Skillz

This film stars Funke Akindele, Chioma Akpota, Nancy Isime and Deyemi Okanlawon amongst others. The film is the sequel of Omo Ghetto (2010), and revolves around the adventures of twin sisters (played by Funke Akindele) who have different lifestyles. It is noteworthy that Funke Akindele not only co-directed the film, but also produced, co-wrote, and played two characters in the film. It is astounding that the film is currently the second highest ever grossing film in Nollywood. 

7. Eyimofe (2020)

Directed by: Chuko Esiri and Arie Esiri

This film—written, directed and produced by the Esiri twin brothers—is divided into two chapters. It ervolves around characters who want to leave the country. In other words, it touches the “Japa” trend currently affecting Nigeria.  It can be found on Amazon Prime Video. 

8. The Millions (2019)

Directed by: Tunde Apalowo and Toka McBaror

This film starred actors such as Ramsey Nouah, Blossom Chukwujekwu and Ayo Makun. It follows the story of five male friends who plan to rob an estate worth millions of Naira. Unfortunately, things do not go as planned. A fun fact about this film is that it was written by one of the directors, Tunde Apalowo. It was the second highest grossing film the year it was released.

9. A Private Storm (2010)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oa5kHc21_Zk

Directed by: Ikechukwu Onyeka and Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen

This film which stars Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and Ramsey Nouah follows the story of a lady and her boyfriend who is a control freak. Though the film was released over a decade ago, it is still a good watch with a lot of morals. 

10. Juju Stories (2021)

Directed by: Michael Omonua, Abba Makama and C.J “Fiery” Obasi

Although this is not your typical feature film, it deserves a mention. Juju stories is an anthology that explore Nigerian folklores with three short chapters: “Love Potion” by Omonua, “Yam” By Makama And “Suffer The Witch” by Obasi. The trio independent filmmakers are referred to as The Surreal 16 Collective,. The film can be found on Amazon Prime Video.