Dramatic Representation of Gender Roles in Nollywood Films: A Study of Selected Productions Between 2020 and 2024

This study analyses the dramatic representation of gender roles in selected Nollywood films produced between 2020 and 2024. Nollywood, as Africa's largest film industry, wields significant cultural influence in shaping public perceptions of gender, identity, and social roles. The research examines how male and female characters are constructed and whether such representations reinforce or challenge prevailing patriarchal norms within Nigerian society. Using content analysis as the primary methodology, twenty Nollywood films were selected through purposive sampling based on viewership ratings and thematic relevance. Analysis focused on dialogue, character agency, costume, and narrative outcomes assigned to male versus female protagonists. Findings reveal that while recent Nollywood productions have introduced stronger female leads, underlying narrative structures continue to reward conformity to traditional gender expectations. Female characters are frequently depicted as requiring male validation, particularly in romantic and domestic storylines. The study concludes that Nollywood has made incremental progress in gender representation but that systemic change in storytelling frameworks remains necessary. Recommendations include the deliberate integration of gender-sensitive screenwriting workshops for filmmakers and the promotion of stories written and directed by women. Keywords: Nollywood, gender representation, dramatic narrative, film analysis, patriarchy.