Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography
Nafisat Abdulrahman Abdullahi (born January 23, 1991, age 34) is a talented Nigerian actress, filmmaker, producer, photographer, and entrepreneur from Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, with family roots in Kano State.
She began her acting career in 2010 with her debut in Sai Wata Rana under FKD Productions, directed by Ali Nuhu, and quickly rose to fame as one of Kannywood’s most celebrated actresses.
Born into the family of Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdullahi and Hajiya Zainab Abdullahi, Nafisat is the fourth child in her family.
She attended Air Force Private School, Jos, and later Government Girls Secondary School, Dutse (Abuja), before proceeding to the University of Jos, where she earned a degree in Theatre Arts.
To further her creativity, she studied Photography at the London School of Photography.
Her career breakthrough came with films like Dan Marayan Zaki (2012), Blood and Henna (2012), Ya Daga Allah (2014), Lamiraj (2016), and Yaki a Soyayya (2018), which she also co-wrote.
In 2013, she was suspended by the Kannywood disciplinary committee but reinstated after a few months.
Over the years, she has won several Best Actress Awards from City People Entertainment, Kannywood Awards, and Afro Hollywood (2017).
Beyond acting, Nafisat is the founder of NAF Cosmetics and the Nafisat Care Foundation, focusing on women’s empowerment and humanitarian work.
In 2022, she starred in Kamanni, and in 2024, she made headlines with her stunning “bald” look in the movie Sulatana.
In 2025, she continues to dominate the Hausa entertainment industry, recognized by Ali Nuhu as the “First Lady of FKD Productions.”
Known for her elegance, intelligence, and versatility, Nafisat Abdullahi remains one of the most influential figures in Kannywood and a symbol of strength, creativity, and leadership among Northern Nigerian women.
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Wikipedia
Category
Details
Full Name
Nafisat Abdulrahman Abdullahi
Date of Birth
January 23, 1991
Age (2025)
34 years old
Place of Birth
Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria
State of Origin
Kano State
Nationality
Nigerian
Ethnicity
Hausa-Fulani
Religion
Islam
Occupation
Actress, Producer, Entrepreneur, Photographer, and Philanthropist
Years Active
2009 – Present
Education
Degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Jos; studied Photography at the London School of Photography
Known For
Roles in Blood and Henna, Dan Marayan Zaki, Sai Wata Rana, Lamiraj, and Aure
Production Company
Nafs Entertainment Ltd
Business Ventures
NAF Cosmetics, NAF Closet, NAF Photography
Marital Status
Single (as of 2025)
Net Worth (2025)
Estimated between $400,000 – $1 million
Languages Spoken
Hausa, English
Hobbies
Photography, Traveling, Fashion Styling, Watching Movies
Awards
City People Entertainment Awards, Kannywood Awards, MTN Nigeria Best Actress Award
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Early Life, Family & Education
Nafisat Abdulrahman Abdullahi, popularly known as Nafisat Abdullahi, was born on January 23, 1991, in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, into a Fulani Muslim family originally from Kano State.
She grew up in a disciplined and supportive home where education and creativity were both encouraged.
Nafisat is the fourth child in a family of four girls, and her father, Abdulrahman Abdullahi, is a wealthy car dealer and politician in Kano, while her mother is a homemaker.
Nafisat attended Air Force Private School, Jos, for her primary education, and later proceeded to Government Girl Secondary School, Dutse, Abuja, where she obtained her Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE).
She later gained admission into the University of Jos, where she studied Theatre Arts, graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre and Performing Arts.
In pursuit of her passion for filmmaking and production, Nafisat furthered her education at the London Film Academy (LFA) in the United Kingdom, where she studied film production and directing.
This advanced training helped shape her into one of Kannywood’s most creative and versatile actresses and producers.
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Career, Entry, Early Years, Rise & Key Works
Nafisat Abdullahi began her acting career in 2009 when she joined the Kannywood film industry, the Hausa-language cinema based in Kano, Nigeria.
Her debut film, “Sai Wata Rana” (2009), produced by Ali Nuhu, introduced her as a fresh face with exceptional acting talent.
Her natural charisma, expressive eyes, and confidence on screen quickly made her a household name across Northern Nigeria.
In her early years, Nafisat appeared in several films that showcased her range and versatility, including “Dan Marayan Zaki”, “Alhaki Kwikwiyo”, and “Gamu Nan Dai”.
However, it was her role in “Blood and Henna” (2012), a film directed by Kenneth Gyang and produced by the Nigerian Film Corporation, that gave her national recognition.
The movie, which addressed the 1996 meningitis epidemic in Northern Nigeria, won multiple awards and solidified her as a serious actress capable of handling complex roles.
Her rise to prominence accelerated between 2011 and 2015, as she starred in major Kannywood blockbusters such as “Ummi”, “Ya Daga Allah”, “Ban Kasheta Ba”, “Babu Ba’ura”, “Farar Saka”, and “Mujadala.”
She became known for her ability to portray both emotional and strong female characters, earning admiration from fans and filmmakers alike.
Beyond acting, Nafisat expanded her career into film production and business.
She founded her own production company, Nafs Entertainment, which focuses on producing quality Hausa films and empowering young talents in the industry.
She also launched a photography and fashion brand called NafVista, blending her passion for visual creativity with entrepreneurship.
Over the years, Nafisat has acted in more than 100 Kannywood films, working alongside notable stars such as Ali Nuhu, Adam A. Zango, Rahama Sadau, Sadiq Sani Sadiq, and Maryam Booth.
Her consistency and professionalism have earned her numerous awards and nominations, including Best Actress (2013) at the City People Entertainment Awards, and Best Kannywood Actress at the MTN Nigeria Awards.
In recent years (2023–2025), Nafisat Abdullahi remains one of the most influential female figures in Northern Nigeria’s entertainment scene.
She has appeared in newer projects like “Gidan Badamasi”, “Sareena,” and “Aure,” while also working as a brand ambassador for several companies and engaging in social advocacy for women’s empowerment and education.
Her transition from actress to filmmaker, entrepreneur, and philanthropist makes her one of Kannywood’s most respected and enduring icons.
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Other Ventures
Beyond her successful acting career, Nafisat Abdullahi has proven herself to be a multifaceted entrepreneur and creative visionary.
Her passion for business, fashion, and youth empowerment has led her to establish several ventures that extend her influence far beyond Kannywood.
In 2016, she officially launched her production and entertainment company, Nafs Entertainment Ltd, which focuses on producing high-quality Hausa films, short series, and documentaries.
The company also provides opportunities for young and upcoming filmmakers, especially women, to gain practical experience in directing, scriptwriting, and acting.
Nafisat is also the founder and CEO of NafVista, a fashion, photography, and lifestyle brand based in Abuja and Kano.
The company deals in modern and traditional Hausa-inspired fashion, event photography, makeup artistry, and brand shoots, promoting elegance with cultural pride.
Aside from entertainment and fashion, Nafisat has ventured into real estate and event management, investing in properties and offering consultancy services to small businesses in Northern Nigeria.
Her entrepreneurial drive and sense of innovation have made her a role model for young women across the region.
As a brand influencer and ambassador, she has worked with several notable Nigerian companies, including MTN Nigeria, Indomie, Dangote Group, Globacom, and DeeDee Fashion House.
Her professionalism and clean public image have made her one of the most sought-after faces for endorsements in Northern Nigeria.
In addition, Nafisat is an active philanthropist. Through her informal initiative, she supports girl-child education, widows, and internally displaced persons (IDPs).
She often participates in community outreach programs and campaigns promoting women’s empowerment, health awareness, and education.
Her ventures demonstrate her evolution from an actress to a strategic businesswoman and social influencer, contributing meaningfully to the growth of the creative economy and social development in Nigeria.
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Controversies & Challenges
Like many public figures, Nafisat Abdullahi has faced her share of controversies and professional challenges throughout her career in Kannywood.
Despite her elegance and discipline, being a bold, independent woman in a conservative entertainment industry has not always been easy.
One of her most talked-about controversies occurred in 2013, when she was suspended by the Motion Picture Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MOPPAN), the main body governing Kannywood, for attending a party in Abuja that was deemed inappropriate according to the industry’s moral guidelines.
The incident sparked widespread debate across Northern Nigeria, with some defending her right to personal freedom, while others criticized her for breaking cultural norms.
After issuing an apology and meeting with the association, she was later reinstated, marking a major turning point in her career.
Nafisat also faced challenges in balancing her education and acting career, as she took a brief break from the screen to focus on her studies at the University of Jos and later at the London Film Academy.
During this period, rumors circulated that she had quit acting, but she made a strong comeback, proving her commitment to both her craft and personal growth.
Additionally, her outspoken nature and confidence have sometimes drawn criticism from conservative fans who expect actresses to maintain a low public profile.
However, Nafisat has consistently defended her independence, stating that she represents a modern Northern woman who values culture but also embraces progress.
In terms of challenges, she has spoken publicly about the difficulties women face in Kannywood, including gender bias, unfair treatment, and the struggle to be taken seriously as filmmakers and producers.
Through perseverance, she overcame these barriers to become one of the few actresses who successfully transitioned into film production and entrepreneurship.
Despite the controversies, Nafisat Abdullahi’s resilience, maturity, and professionalism have kept her at the top of her game.
She has used her experiences as motivation to inspire other young women to pursue their dreams confidently and with dignity, regardless of public opinion.
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Recent / Latest Developments
Exit from Labarina: Nafisat Abdullahi officially withdrew from her role in the Hausa TV/film series Labarina (where she played Sumayya). She cited her “heavy schedule” with personal ventures as making it difficult to commit to the production shoots.
Ali Nuhu Calls Her “First Lady” of FKD Production: Ali Nuhu praised her by declaring her the “First Lady” of his production company, FKD Productions, recognizing her dominance in winning Best Actress-type awards in Kannywood and her strong presence in films.
Schedule Clash With Rariya: She did not appear in Rahama Sadau’s upcoming film Rariya because of schedule conflicts. The producer noted that while she was invited, the timing didn’t work for Nafisat.
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Awards & Honors
2013 — City People Entertainment Awards: Awarded Best Actress of the Year (Kannywood).
2013 — MTN/Kannywood Awards: Won Best Actress Lead for her performance in Ahlul Kitab.
2014 — 1st Kannywood Awards: Won Best Kannywood Actress (Popular Choice Award) for Dan Marayan Zaki.
2014 — Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA): Won Best Actress of the Year for Dan Marayan Zaki.
2015 — Kannywood Awards: Won Best Actress.
2016 — City People Entertainment Awards: Won Best Actress of the Year (Kannywood).
2016 — Arewa Music & Movie Awards (AMMA): Won Best Actress of the Year.
2016 — 3rd Kannywood Awards: Won Best Kannywood Actress for Baiwar Allah.
2017 — Afro Hollywood Award: Received an honor (either a win or recognition) from the Afro Hollywood Award.
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Personal Life, Interests & Other Details
Nafisat Abdulrahman Abdullahi is not married and continues to focus on her career, education, and businesses.
Nafisat is a proud Fulani Muslim woman who strongly values modesty, culture, and education. Despite her celebrity status, she remains deeply rooted in her Northern Nigerian traditions.
She often speaks about the importance of women’s empowerment, self-reliance, and education for the girl child, causes she actively supports through charity and mentorship programs.
In her personal time, she enjoys reading novels, traveling, photography, fashion styling, and film directing.
Her love for art and aesthetics inspired the creation of her lifestyle and fashion brand, NafVista, which expresses her refined taste and sense of style.
She is also a lover of animals, especially cats, and often shares pictures of her pets on social media. Nafisat’s Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) feeds reflect her elegant and inspiring lifestyle, balancing celebrity with simplicity.
Her role models include Ali Nuhu, Genevieve Nnaji, and Mo Abudu, whom she admires for their professionalism and vision in the African film industry.
She is also inspired by Malala Yousafzai and Amina J. Mohammed, whom she describes as women of courage and leadership.
Nafisat is multilingual, fluent in Hausa, English, and a bit of Arabic, which allows her to connect with a diverse audience across Africa.
In personality, Nafisat is described by colleagues as confident, intelligent, and kind-hearted, with a strong sense of responsibility and professionalism on set.
She believes that “discipline, hard work, and humility” are the secrets to a long-lasting career.
Overall, Nafisat Abdullahi stands as a symbol of beauty, intelligence, and empowerment, a woman who has redefined what it means to be a modern Northern Nigerian actress in today’s entertainment world.
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Net Worth
Nafisat Abdullahi net worth is estimated between $400,000 – $1 million, according to multiple online sources.
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Filmography of Nafisat Abdullahi
Sai Wata Rana (2009) – Debut film; directed by Ali Nuhu
Dan Marayan Zaki (2010)
Alhaki Kwikwiyo (2010)
Mujadala (2011)
Gamu Nan Dai (2011)
Ummi (2011)
Ya Daga Allah (2012)
Ahlul Kitab (2012) – Won Best Actress (MTN/Kannywood Awards)
Blood and Henna (2012) – Breakthrough role; directed by Kenneth Gyang
Farar Saka (2013)
Ban Kasheta Ba (2013)
Kalamu Wahid (2013)
Mujadala (Part 2) (2014)
Ya Daga Allah 2 (2014)
Cikin Waye? (2014)
Baiwar Allah (2015) – Award-winning performance
Zango (2015)
Dan Halak (2015)
Mariya (2015)
Gidan Badamasi (TV Series) (2016–2019) – One of her longest-running appearances
Ana Wata Ga Wata (2017)
Yar Agadez (2017)
Jinin Jikina (2018)
Labarina (TV Series) (2020–2023) – Played “Sumayya”; one of her most iconic modern roles
Aure (2021)
Sareena (2021)
Zamantakewa (2021)
Wata Rana (2022)
Kaddara (2022)
Matsayin So (Series) (2023)
Tauraruwa (2023)
Aure 2 (2024)
Gari Ya Waye (2024)
Gidan Badamasi: The Return (Series) (2025)
Ameera (Upcoming Film) (2025) – Currently in post-production
Other Appearances & Projects:
Numerous guest roles in Kannywood TV series and special productions for Arewa24 and Africa Magic Hausa.
Featured in several music videos and commercial campaigns, including for MTN, Indomie, and Glo.
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Favorites of Nafisat Abdullahi
Favorite Movie Role:Sumayya in Labarina — she described it as “emotionally deep and career-defining.”
Favorite Actor:Ali Nuhu – her mentor and longtime collaborator.
Favorite Actress:Genevieve Nnaji and Rahama Sadau – she admires their creativity and leadership.
Favorite Director:Kenneth Gyang – for his professionalism in Blood and Henna.
Favorite Kannywood Movie:Dan Marayan Zaki
Dream Role: Playing a modern African woman who leads with intelligence and courage in a cross-cultural film.
Favorite Designer: Deola Sagoe & Mai Atafo
Favorite Color: White and Gold — symbolizes purity and elegance.
Favorite Outfit Style: Elegant traditional attires (Abaya, Kaftan, and Ankara Gowns)
Favorite Perfume: Chanel Coco Mademoiselle
Favorite Accessory: Wristwatches and designer handbags
Favorite Food: Jollof rice with chicken & fried plantain
Favorite Northern Dish: Tuwo Shinkafa with Miyan Taushe
Favorite Drink: Fresh juice and green tea
Favorite Music Genre: Afrobeat, Soul, and Hausa traditional music
Favorite Musicians: Wizkid, Sani Danja, and Yemi Alade
Favorite TV Shows:CNN African Voices and Inside Africa
Hobbies: Traveling, photography, reading novels, and fashion styling
Favorite Travel Destination: London, Dubai, and Abuja (home base)
Favorite Quote: “Discipline, hard work, and humility define true success.”
Role Models: Ali Nuhu, Mo Abudu, Amina J. Mohammed, and Malala Yousafzai
Biggest Inspiration: Her late grandmother, who taught her the value of patience and dignity.
Favorite Cause: Women’s education and empowerment in Northern Nigeria.
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
Fun Facts & Trivia About Nafisat Abdullahi
First Film Role at 17: Nafisat joined Kannywood at just 17 years old, making her debut in Sai Wata Rana (2009) produced by Ali Nuhu.
Trained Filmmaker: She is one of the few Kannywood actresses formally trained abroad — she studied Film Production and Directing at the London Film Academy.
Over 100 Movies: She has appeared in more than 100 Kannywood films, making her one of the most prolific actresses in the industry.
Pioneer of Modern Kannywood Fashion: Nafisat helped introduce urban, elegant styles to Kannywood red carpets — blending modesty with sophistication.
Owns a Production Company: She founded Nafs Entertainment Ltd and NafVista, combining film, fashion, and photography under one creative umbrella.
Loves Simplicity: Despite her fame, she prefers a quiet and simple life, often spending time at home reading or planning business projects.
Tech-Savvy Actress: Nafisat personally manages most of her Instagram posts and digital projects — she’s very involved in her brand’s online image.
Cat Lover: She has a pet cat named “Sasha”, which she sometimes features in her Instagram stories.
Signature Laugh: Known for her soft, contagious laugh — a trait that fans and co-stars always mention in interviews.
Rarely Wears Heavy Makeup: She prefers natural looks and says confidence is more beautiful than layers of cosmetics.
Avid Traveler: Nafisat has visited over 10 countries, including the UK, UAE, Ghana, South Africa, and France.
Photography Addict: She personally handles creative direction for photoshoots under her NafVista brand.
Book Lover: She enjoys motivational and romantic books — her favorites include “Becoming” by Michelle Obama and “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho.
Fashion Designer by Passion: Before becoming an actress, she dreamed of being a fashion designer. She later fulfilled that dream through NafVista.
Advocate for Women: Nafisat uses her fame to promote girl-child education and women’s independence, especially in Northern Nigeria.
Rejects Stereotypes: She once said in an interview, “Being a Northern woman doesn’t mean you must limit yourself — culture and ambition can go hand in hand.”
Never Gives Up: After her 2013 suspension from MOPPAN, she came back stronger and earned more awards than before.
Prefers Directing to Acting: Nafisat says she enjoys film directing more than being in front of the camera.
Rarely Watches Her Own Movies: She believes watching herself makes her too critical of her performances.
Secret Talent: She’s a skilled painter and sketch artist — something only her close friends knew before she shared it online in 2024.
Nafisat Abdullahi Biography, Age, Career, Boyfriend, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, & Life Story (2025 Updated)
In Conclusion
Nafisat Abdullahi (born January 23, 1991) is one of the most influential and accomplished actresses in the Kannywood film industry, known for her elegance, versatility, and strong presence on and off the screen.
From her humble beginnings in Jos, Plateau State, to becoming a household name in Nigerian cinema, she has inspired millions through her work, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Over the years, Nafisat has built a reputable brand that extends beyond acting, embracing fashion, cosmetics, photography, and film production.
Despite challenges, including industry controversies, she remains one of the most respected and consistent figures in Kannywood.
With her unwavering passion for creativity, continuous reinvention, and focus on empowering women in entertainment, Nafisat Abdullahi stands today as a true role model and symbol of excellence in the Nigerian film industry.
Her journey is far from over, it’s only evolving into new heights of stardom and influence.
