By Ayo Onikoyi

Adeniran Mariam, a rising Nigerian actress and movie producer, is fast becoming a notable force in Nollywood.

The talented filmmaker, who joined the industry in 2021, has already made her mark by producing captivating movies and starring in over ten films.

Speaking about her journey, Mariam shared insights into her work, passion, and vision for Nollywood, expressing enthusiasm for the industry’s growth and her place within it.

Mariam’s latest project, “Oloore,” is set for release on November 30, 2024, following the success of her previous production, “Elegua,” which premiered on March 9, 2024.

“Elegua” delves into complex family dynamics and themes of loyalty and betrayal, promising an intense, thought-provoking experience for viewers. Meanwhile, “Oloore” explores themes of generosity and the nuances of human relationships. This release marks a significant step in Mariam’s journey as she carves out her niche as a producer.

In a field as competitive as Nollywood, Mariam remains grounded and driven by passion. “I chose acting above other areas of film production because of the emotional fulfillment it brings,” she said.

This passion led her to train under renowned filmmaker Abiodun Jimoh, CEO of Prodigy & Pens creative group, where she honed her skills. With a background in Tourism from Yaba College of Education, Mariam brings a unique perspective to her craft, infusing cultural elements into her storytelling.

Mariam has starred in a variety of movies since joining the industry, including “Surulere,” “Dabira,” “Bad Puzzle 1 & 2,” “Lekki Hustler,” “Ade Ori Okin,” “Alumoni,” “Latorunwa,” “Jagbajantis,” “Mechanic,” and “Ajara Alagbo.” Each role, she says, has pushed her to expand her range as an actress.

 “The first thing that comes to mind when I get a script is how to bring the character to life,” she explains, emphasising her dedication to portraying diverse characters authentically.

Beyond acting, Mariam is currently working on multiple projects that emphasise African narratives.

Among them is a historical drama exploring Nigeria’s cultural heritage and a modern-day romance series that examines love in the social media era.

“These projects are deeply rooted in African narratives, celebrating our culture and heritage,” she said, underscoring her commitment to telling stories that resonate with African audiences.

Reflecting on Nollywood’s growth, Mariam is inspired by the progress the industry has made in storytelling, production quality, and international recognition.

“Nollywood has grown tremendously, and I’m proud of how far we’ve come. With increased attention to production quality and international reach, Nollywood is poised to compete globally,” she added.

She acknowledged the impact of industry trailblazers like Femi Adebayo, Kunle Afolayan, and Funke Akindele, who have paved the way for rising filmmakers.

Looking to the future, Mariam has set her sights on working with Nollywood legends. “There are a few actors I admire and look forward to working with, including Richard Mofe-Damijo, Genevieve Nnaji, Ramsey Nouah, and Nse Ikpe-Etim.

They consistently deliver outstanding performances, and collaborating with them would be a dream come true,” she shared.

As Nollywood enters a new phase where practitioners must constantly innovate to stay relevant, Mariam feels prepared. “The key is to constantly evolve, refine your craft, and stay true to your passion,” she noted, adding that she embraces challenges and thrives on pushing herself beyond her comfort zone.

One of her most thrilling experiences as an actress was working on a film that required her to learn a new language. “It was both challenging and fulfilling,” she recalled. “It allowed me to connect with a different cultural aspect of our society, broadening my perspective as an actor.”

This experience solidified her belief in Nollywood’s potential to tell diverse stories that reflect the richness of Nigerian culture.

Despite her rapid rise, Mariam remains focused on creating a space for herself within Nollywood. “I believe my chances of making a mark are high because I am committed to excellence in every project,” she said confidently. “Yes, I’m still evolving, but I trust the process and am willing to put in the work to create my own niche.”

Mariam’s dedication is clear when discussing her approach to each role. “I give my all when interpreting a character. I immerse myself completely, understanding the character’s psychology, motivations, and background,” she shared. Her fans can look forward to her embodying a diverse array of characters, as she’s particularly interested in playing challenging roles like a warrior queen—a portrayal that would push her to new physical and emotional limits. As Mariam Adeniran continues to grow as an actress and producer, she looks forward to making significant contributions to Nollywood’s legacy. Fans eagerly await her upcoming movie “Oloore,” which promises to showcase her talent and reinforce her position as a rising star in Nigeria’s vibrant film industry.