As 2024 approaches its conclusion, many Nigerian actresses will undoubtedly reflect on a year filled with challenges and achievements. Yet, few have experienced such a remarkable journey as Uzoamaka Aniunoh, whose career has reached new heights this year.
Photographer: Stedi Eduvie
She first gained attention in 2021 with roles in the Kayode Kasum comedy “Ponzi” and Kunle Afolayan’s “A Naija Christmas.” However, her portrayal of Zinwe in the 2023 black-and-white film “Mami Wata” truly catapulted her to national fame. Despite this and her selection for Berlinale Talents 2023, some still argued that her name hadn’t reached household status yet.
Fast forward to 2024 and a household name she has become! The actress proudly ditched supporting roles for lead ones in some of the year’s most celebrated films while also opening her directional profile with the short film “Love Language.”
In August, viewers were spellbound by her performance as Zainab in Prime Video’s “With Difficulty Comes Ease,” which tells the poignant story of a widowed Muslim woman navigating societal challenges while striving to live a life.
October brought double excitement as Aniunoh graced the London premiere of two of her films: “The Weekend” at the 68th British Film Institute London Film Festival (BFI) and “Shaping Us” at the British Urban Film Festival (BUFF). Her appearance at the BFI marked one of many international showings for “The Weekend,” a critically acclaimed psychological thriller that garnered 16 nominations at the recently concluded Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), including Best Director for Daniel Oriahi and Best Actor and Actress in a Leading Role for Bucci Franklin and Aniunoh respectively.
Although the awards the movie later clinched didn’t include a win for the actress, her almost non-verbal acting in the film was instrumental in delivering its success.
And her wardrobe this year has been no less impressive!
At the BFI, she dazzled in an oversized white kaftan featuring striking blue tie-dye patterns.
Photographer: Jack Hall
Not one to underdress, Uzoamaka was turning heads at the press screening of “A Night in 2005,” wearing a stylish teal blue pantsuit with a structured blazer and matching trousers, further solidifying her status as a fashion-forward actress.
Photographer: KOVI
For Netflix’s annual “Lights, Camera, Naija” event on Nov. 2, Aniunoh made a chic statement at Victoria Island’s Box Event Center in a black halter-style dress paired with green-laced thigh-high stockings.
Photographer: Olasunkanmi Iroko
Two days later, she graced the red carpet at the 13th Africa International Film Festival—where two movies she stars in, “Headless” and “Phoenix Fury,” opened—showcasing a stunning black gown complemented by a luxurious faux fur wrap, pearl accessories, and a striking feather-like mask.
With even more exciting projects around the corner, Aniunoh will remain the busiest she’s ever been as she rightfully takes her place among the hottest Nollywood stars around—in both talent and style!