Welcome to this post about Top 10 Richest Kannywood Actresses and How The Females Built Their Wealth, via Afrokonnect. The Nigerian entertainment industry is not just about glitz and glamour—it’s a thriving ecosystem where talent, business, and opportunity intersect. While Nollywood has earned international acclaim, its northern counterpart, Kannywood, has carved out a vibrant and culturally rich niche of its own.
Kannywood’s actresses are more than screen stars—they’re entrepreneurs, influencers, and brand ambassadors, many of whom have turned their fame into financial empires. From acting and production to brand endorsements and YouTube revenue, these women are changing the narrative of success in Northern Nigeria.
In this article, we’ll explore the 10 richest Kannywood actresses, how they earned their wealth, and what makes their stories truly remarkable.
What is Kannywood?
Kannywood is the Hausa-language film industry centered in Kano, Nigeria. It is a major part of Nollywood and caters to millions of Hausa-speaking viewers across West Africa and beyond. While rooted in conservative traditions, Kannywood has evolved with modern technology and storytelling techniques, producing stars who are now household names in both Northern Nigeria and other parts of the continent.
How Kannywood Actresses Make Money
Before we explore the top earners, it’s important to understand how these actresses generate income. Their earnings typically come from a mix of:
- Acting fees (Kannywood and Nollywood)
- Film production and direction
- Brand endorsements and ambassadorships
- YouTube monetization
- Business ventures (fashion, cosmetics, etc.)
- Speaking engagements and public appearances
Some actresses have also transitioned into Nollywood or even international projects, expanding their income potential.
Crossing Over: From Kannywood to Nollywood and Beyond
Several Kannywood actresses—especially Rahama Sadau, Hadiza Gabon, and Maryam Booth—have successfully crossed over into Nollywood. This crossover not only provides wider exposure but also offers higher pay, global recognition, and brand deals beyond Northern Nigeria.
This transition has helped reshape public perceptions of the conservative Kannywood industry, showing the adaptability and creativity of these actresses.
The Business Side of Fame
What sets these women apart is their ability to leverage fame into multiple business ventures. From fashion lines to media companies, they have diversified their income and created long-term financial security.
For instance:
- Rahama Sadau owns a film production company.
- Nafisat Abdullahi runs a beauty and lifestyle brand.
- Mansurah Isah uses her YouTube channel to reach digital audiences.
Why Representation in Kannywood Matters
These actresses are role models for young girls in Northern Nigeria and beyond. They challenge stereotypes and show that women from conservative regions can be financially independent, influential, and global figures.
They also contribute to the regional economy and culture, using their platforms to raise awareness on important social issues.
The 10 Richest Kannywood Actresses (2025 Edition)
10. Hafsat Idris – $50,000+ (₦23M+)
- Active years: 2010 – present (15 years)
- Other sources of Income: Clothing and kitchen items businesses
- Famous for: Actress (Rariya, Kawaye, Kalan Dangi)
Hafsat Idris began her rise in Kannywood during the mid-2010s, quickly becoming a household name with standout performances in Barauniya and Makaryaci. Her 2016 production Kawaye marked her as a serious filmmaker, starring major industry figures like Ali Nuhu.
Beyond acting, Hafsat earns income as a brand influencer, collaborating with clothing, kitchenware, and interior décor brands, which has significantly elevated her net worth.
9. Aisha Aliyu Tsamiya – $60,000+ (₦27M+)
- Active years: 2011 – present (14 years)
- Other sources of Income: Endorsement deals, modeling, entrepreneurship
- Famous for: Actress (Tsamiya, Dakin Amarya, Hanyar Kano, Ranar Baiko, Salma)
Starting in 2011, Aisha Aliyu Tsamiya’s fame grew with the success of Salma. Known for her elegance and screen presence, she also starred in Laila Adam, Kalan Dangi, and Wuff.
She ventured into production with Kalan Dangi and actively engages fans on social media. Aisha is admired for her style, versatility, and entrepreneurial drive, making her a popular choice for brand partnerships.
8. Fati Washa – $70,000+ (₦31M+)
- Active years: 2010 – present (15 years)
- Other sources of Income: Endorsement deals
- Famous for: Actress (Mijin Biza, Basaja Gidan Yari, Hindu, Gwaska Returns)
Fati Washa, born Fatima Abdullahi, is one of Kannywood’s most respected actresses. Her career began in 2010, and she’s appeared in numerous hits including Jaraba and Gada da Gabanta.
She has endorsement deals with Diza Empire and Rufauida Drinks, and has often been credited with redefining elegance and professionalism in the northern film scene.
7. Maryam Booth – $100,000+ (₦46M+)
- Other sources of Income: Endorsement deals, businesses
- Famous for: Actress (The Milkmaid, Hakkunde, Jalil (2020)
Maryam Booth is not only a celebrated actress but a symbol of early success—having begun acting at just 8 years old. She gained global recognition in The Milkmaid, which was submitted as Nigeria’s entry to the Oscars.
Apart from Kannywood, Maryam has worked in English-language films like Lagos to Abuja Coach and Sanitation Day. She also works as a model and presenter, further broadening her income streams.
6. Halima Atete – $180,000+ (₦82M+)
- Active years: 2012 – present (13 years)
- Other sources of Income: Endorsement deals
- Famous for: Actress (Dakin Amarya)
Known for her natural charisma and dramatic talent, Halima Atete is an actress, producer, and scriptwriter. Her major income comes from her acting career and lucrative brand deals, including ambassadorships for Hollantex and Crown Fabrics.
With a career spanning over a decade, she’s become one of the most bankable female faces in Kannywood today.
5. Mansurah Isah – $200,000+
- Active years: 1990s – present (15 years)
- Other sources of Income: Endorsement deals
- Famous for: Actress (Fanan, Akeelah, Fate of Alakada)
A veteran of the industry, Mansurah Isah began acting in the 1990s and has since diversified into production, writing, and digital media. She was part of Fate of Alakada (2020), one of Nigeria’s top-grossing comedies.
Mansurah owns a successful YouTube channel with over 30,000 subscribers and more than 1.6 million views, serving as a steady income stream since 2015.
4. Jamila Nagudu – $200,000+ (₦92M+)
- Active years: 2002 (23 years)
- Other sources of Income: Endorsement deals, film production, and business
- Famous for: Acting (Mati a Zazzau, Hafeez, Mijin Biza, Hindu)
Dubbed the “Queen of Kannywood,” Jamila Nagudu has been active for over 20 years. Starting out as a dancer, she transitioned into acting in the early 2000s and went on to feature in Mijin Biza, Karshen Tika Tiki, and Hikima.
Her career has been supported by brand endorsements and film production efforts, including Manyan Gobe (2019).
3. Nafisat Abdullahi – $217,000+ (₦100M+)
- Active years: 2010 – present
- Other sources of Income: Endorsements, Cosmetic store, Cofee shop, and clothing line
- Famous for: Acting (Kalamu Wahid, Ya Daga Allah, Dan Marayan Zaki, Baiwar Allah)
Jos-born Nafisat Abdullahi has built a multifaceted career as an actress, producer, and businesswoman. Her film credits include Dan Marayan Zaki, Zango, and Yar Agadez.
She also represents Pepsi, Procold, and Salis Drive as a brand ambassador. Her luxury lifestyle and active online presence make her one of the most talked-about women in the industry.
2. Hadiza Aliyu Gabon – $250,000+ (₦115M+)
- Active years: 2009 – present (16 years)
- Other sources of Income: Endorsement and businesses
- Famous for: Acting (Babban Zaure, Ali Yaga Ali, Daga Ni Sai Ke)
Gabon-born Hadiza Aliyu began acting in Nigeria in 2009 and rose to fame after appearing in Artabu. She has since starred in major films and joined Nollywood with Lagos Real Fake Life.
She has collaborated with major brands including MTN, Indomie, and Dangote, and produced films like Surprise Birthday. She also has interests in fashion and philanthropy, which contribute to her overall brand.
1. Rahama Sadau – $300,000+ (₦138M+)
- Active years: 2013 – present (12 years)
- Other sources of Income: Endorsements, businesses (Beauty and filming companies)
- Famous for: Acting (Sons of the Caliphate, Shuga, Mati a Zazzau)
At the top of the list is Rahama Sadau, the most successful and globally recognized actress from Kannywood. Her career took off in 2013 with Gani Ga Wane, and she has since appeared in blockbuster films including Almajiri, Zero Hour, and MTV’s Shuga.
She’s also a producer, dancer, and founder of Sadau Pictures. In 2023, she collaborated with Bollywood in Postcards, further expanding her international appeal.
Conclusion about the 10 Richest Kannywood Actresses (2025 Edition)
The richest actresses in Kannywood are not just stars—they’re entrepreneurs, trailblazers, and cultural ambassadors. Their success stories show that with talent, discipline, and strategy, it’s possible to build a thriving career in entertainment while staying true to one’s roots.
As the industry continues to grow, expect these actresses to expand their empires and inspire even more young women to chase their dreams—on screen and off.
