Nollywood, the vibrant Nigerian film industry, has long been a powerful storyteller when it comes to romance. Whether it's stories of unexpected love, complicated relationships, or passionate cultural connections, Nollywood has consistently delivered romantic films that stir emotions and captivate audiences across Africa and beyond.
In 2025, the industry has yet again proven its brilliance with a fresh lineup of romantic films that offer heartfelt storytelling, superb performances, and cinematic brilliance. If you're in search of love stories that will leave you swooning, smiling, or even shedding a tear, here are the 10 best Nollywood romantic movies you absolutely should watch this year.
1. Reel Love
Director: Kayode Kasum
Lead Cast: Timini Egbuson, Funke Akindele, Bimbo Ademoye
Reel Love is a modern love story shaped by the digital age. It follows Tomide, a famous relationship influencer, and Rachel, a woman with a personal brand to protect. What starts as a staged relationship quickly evolves into something real, challenging both characters' perspectives on love, truth, and vulnerability.
The film shines for its timely plot that mirrors today's social media realities. With top-tier performances and excellent direction, Reel Love has topped the Nigerian box office and ignited conversations around online personas versus real-life emotions.
2. Soft Love
Director: Holmes Awa
Lead Cast: Cindy Mahlangu, Efa Iwara
This cross-cultural love story unites two worlds—South Africa and Nigeria. Zandi Jele, a successful South African relationship coach, escapes to Lagos after a painful betrayal. There, she meets Edward Obi, a mysterious Nigerian photographer dealing with his own demons. Their romance blossoms amid cultural clashes and guarded hearts.
Soft Love is not only a visual delight, but also an emotional rollercoaster. It brings fresh air into Nollywood romance, especially with its multinational storyline and layered characters. The film’s nomination at the 2025 AMVCA for Best Cinematography and Best Editing speaks volumes about its quality.
3. Aso Ebi Diaries
Director: Biodun Stephen
Lead Cast: Nancy Isime, Uzor Arukwe
In Aso Ebi Diaries, Elizabeth Gomez faces the sudden loss of her wealthy background and tries to rebuild her life. Amid this, she finds love in the most unexpected place—while working in the fashion industry as a designer for traditional Yoruba weddings.
This film beautifully blends romance with rich cultural expression. Elizabeth’s journey is both romantic and empowering, showing that love can thrive even when life seems to fall apart. Nancy Isime’s performance is especially commendable, portraying vulnerability and strength in equal measure.
4. Cuffs and Curves
Director: Omoruyi Efosa Emmanuel
Lead Cast: Daniel Etim-Effiong, Onyii Alex
Cuffs and Curves is a moving story about love, commitment, and family. The plot revolves around a young married couple who struggle to conceive, navigating emotional turmoil, social pressure, and internal doubts.
What makes this film stand out is its emotional depth. It brings to light often-ignored marital issues while still delivering a tender love story. With powerful performances and a realistic portrayal of romantic trials, Cuffs and Curves is relatable and unforgettable.
5. Summer Rain
Director: TBA
Lead Cast: Sharon Ooja, Alexx Ekubo
Summer Rain follows two strangers whose paths cross during a trip. Their chance encounter leads to a summer of love, laughter, and lessons. But as summer fades, so do their expectations, forcing them to confront what love really means.
This film is a breath of fresh air, filled with scenic views, soulful music, and a story that pulls at the heartstrings. It's perfect for anyone who has experienced or longed for a fleeting, yet impactful, love.
6. Love Lockdown
Director: TBA
Lead Cast: Toni Tones, Kunle Remi
Set during a fictional lockdown period, Love Lockdown tells the story of two neighbors who have never spoken—until circumstances force them to connect from their balconies. What starts as small talk turns into something much deeper.
This pandemic-inspired romance explores intimacy in isolation. With witty dialogue and genuine chemistry between the leads, the film reminds us that love can blossom even in the darkest of times. It’s timely, tender, and beautifully shot.
7. Last to Marry
Director: TBA
Lead Cast: Lota Chukwu, Akah Nnani
Last to Marry tackles societal expectations in Nigerian culture, especially the pressure placed on women to get married by a certain age. The protagonist, a successful woman in her thirties, finds herself at the center of family pressure, blind dates, and awkward matchmaking—all while searching for genuine love.
The film cleverly mixes humor and heartfelt moments. It’s both a social commentary and a romantic tale that resonates with many young Nigerians trying to live life on their terms.
8. Love in Every Word
Director: TBA
Lead Cast: Mawuli Gavor, Beverly Naya
This heartwarming film focuses on communication in relationships. It tells the story of a couple trying to save their crumbling relationship through open letters, journal entries, and poetry. As they express themselves more honestly, they rediscover the bond that once united them.
With its poetic narration and deep emotional layers, Love in Every Word is a celebration of vulnerability. It reminds us that sometimes, saying the right words can heal even the deepest wounds.
9. Love and Motivation
Director: TBA
Lead Cast: Deyemi Okanlawon, Bisola Aiyeola
In Love and Motivation, two ambitious individuals fall in love while pursuing their dreams in Lagos. As they chase success in their careers, their relationship is tested by ego, distance, and life choices. Will their love survive when ambition gets in the way?
The film is both romantic and inspiring. It portrays the delicate balance between career growth and maintaining a relationship. It’s a must-watch for young professionals navigating love in a fast-paced world.
10. 10 Million Ways to Love
Director: TBA
Lead Cast: Ensemble cast
This anthology film explores ten different love stories, each representing a unique form of affection—first love, heartbreak, friendship-turned-romance, forbidden love, and more. The characters come from various backgrounds, making the film a rich mix of cultures, emotions, and experiences.
What makes 10 Million Ways to Love exceptional is its versatility. With something for everyone, the film paints a comprehensive picture of how diverse and powerful love can be.
Final Thoughts
From heartfelt dramas to lighthearted rom-coms, these 10 Nollywood romantic films offer something for every lover of love stories. They showcase not just the creativity and talent within the Nigerian film industry, but also reflect real societal themes and emotional truths that audiences across the world can connect with.
If you're planning a romantic movie night, seeking inspiration for your own love life, or simply want to enjoy great storytelling, these films should top your watchlist in 2025. Nollywood continues to evolve, and with such impressive works of art, the future of Nigerian romance on screen is incredibly bright.
