Kannywood, the vibrant Hausa-language film industry based in Northern Nigeria, continues to evolve with fresh faces and rising stars. While the likes of Rahama Sadau and Hadiza Gabon have already cemented their place in the spotlight, a new generation of talented actresses is stepping up — and they’re bringing new energy, modern storytelling, and cultural pride to the screen.
Here are the top 5 up-and-coming Kannywood actresses to watch in 2025.
1. Maryam Waziri
Maryam Waziri, best known for her role in the hit TV series "Labarina", has quickly become a household name among Kannywood fans. Her captivating screen presence, expressive acting, and elegant fashion sense have made her a favorite, especially among young viewers.
Why She Stands Out:
- Combines traditional values with modern charm
- Strong fan base on social media (especially Instagram and TikTok)
- Versatile in both romantic and dramatic roles
Watch out: Maryam is already getting attention from producers in Nollywood — a crossover could be near.
2. Aisha Humaira
Aisha Humaira is a rising Kannywood actress whose natural acting and emotional depth have caught the eyes of many film lovers. She often plays the role of a strong, determined young woman, and fans appreciate her for staying true to her Hausa roots.
Highlights:
- Often featured in moral and educational films
- Commands a growing audience in both rural and urban settings
- Fluent in Hausa and English — a plus for future collaborations
Future Potential: She’s being tipped to become the next big role model in northern cinema.
3. Zainab Abdullahi (Zee Pretty)
Known online as Zee Pretty, Zainab Abdullahi is a beauty and talent combo who’s quickly turning heads in Kannywood. She gained fame through short skits on YouTube before transitioning into full-length movies.
Why Fans Love Her:
- Bold fashion sense and confidence
- Active on social media — engages fans regularly
- Appeals to both Gen Z and millennials
Next Step: With the right roles, Zee Pretty could become one of the faces of modern Kannywood.
4. Rukayya Dawayya (Junior)
A young actress many are calling “the next Dawayya,” Rukayya Dawayya Junior has shown flashes of brilliance in several family and romantic dramas. She comes from a line of film talents and is already proving she belongs in the spotlight.
Notable Traits:
- Strong screen presence
- Excellent Hausa diction and storytelling ability
- Comfortable with both traditional and urban scripts
Big Potential: She’s already in talks for lead roles in upcoming Kannywood blockbusters.
5. Fatima Ali Nuhu
Daughter of the legendary Ali Nuhu, Fatima Ali Nuhu is naturally stepping into the limelight. With her father's guidance and her own unique talent, she is poised to carry the legacy forward — and perhaps even create her own.
What Makes Her Special:
- Blends talent with star pedigree
- Brings grace and sophistication to every role
- Already starred in a few acclaimed family-oriented films
Watch This Space: With her family background and training, Fatima is set for stardom.
Why Kannywood Needs New Female Voices
The rise of these young actresses isn’t just exciting — it’s necessary. With changing audience expectations and the growing influence of digital platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Arewa24, Kannywood needs fresh female leads who can:
- Represent modern northern Nigerian values
- Appeal to youth without losing cultural identity
- Push for better scripts and female-led narratives
These five actresses are doing just that — and more.
FAQs
Q: Who is the most popular young actress in Kannywood right now?
A: Maryam Waziri is one of the most popular, especially after her breakout role in Labari Na.
Q: Are any of these actresses active on social media?
A: Yes! Zee Pretty and Maryam Waziri, in particular, are very active and have large followings.
Q: Can these actresses cross into Nollywood?
A: Absolutely. With their growing popularity and bilingual skills, several of them are already being noticed by Nollywood producers.
Final Thoughts
The future of Kannywood is bright, and these up-and-coming actresses are at the heart of that transformation. Whether it’s on the big screen or through digital series, they’re making bold moves, winning hearts, and carving out their space in an industry rich with history and tradition.
If you’re a fan of Hausa movies, keep an eye on Maryam Waziri, Aisha Humaira, Zee Pretty, Rukayya Dawayya, and Fatima Ali Nuhu — they’re the future of Kannywood.
