Consistency, teamwork, vision drive great storytelling – Damilola Olumuyiwa

Oluwadamilola Anuoluwapo Olumuyiwa, professionally known as Damilola Olumuyiwa, is among a new generation of Nigerian filmmakers helping to shape the evolving landscape of Nollywood through writing, development and production.

Though she studied Accounting at Bowen University, her journey into filmmaking was neither accidental nor abrupt.

Instead, it was a deliberate decision born out of a deepening passion for storytelling and an eagerness to understand the intricate processes that transform ideas into compelling screen productions.

Over the years, Olumuyiwa has carved a niche for herself behind the scenes, building a reputation for versatility and dedication across various departments of filmmaking.

Her growing portfolio includes contributions to notable projects such as Blind Spot, Dear Affy, Bling Lagosians, King of Thieves, Itura, Mimi, and Kafaya Undercover, among others.

Beyond writing and story development, she has also played critical roles in production, serving in capacities ranging from associate producer and producer to co-executive producer on acclaimed projects including Seven and a Half Date, King of Thieves (Ageshinkole), Mimi, and Diiche.

Reflecting on her journey, Olumuyiwa said her fascination with filmmaking began during her university years.

“I studied Accounting at Bowen University, but while I was in school, I developed a strong interest in storytelling and film. After graduation, I realised I was more drawn to the creative process than the traditional accounting path,” she said.

Determined to build a career in the industry, she immersed herself in learning every aspect of filmmaking, from development and writing to production and project execution.

“I started learning how film works from the ground up, not just acting or directing but understanding development, writing, production and how projects actually come together. That is how I gradually moved into the industry,” she explained.

Speaking on her experience in Nollywood, Olumuyiwa described the industry as highly collaborative and fast-paced, requiring professionals to constantly adapt and learn.

“It has been a learning experience. Nollywood is very collaborative and very fast paced. You are constantly learning how to manage structure, people, timing and creative expectations all at once,” she said.

The Choke and Ijakumo: The Born again Stripper, have exposed her to different scales of production and storytelling approaches.

According to her, her progression into bigger production roles happened naturally through experience and a willingness to learn.

“In this industry, you do not just jump into one role. You learn by being part of teams and understanding how each stage works,” she noted.

She explained that beginning in development spaces gave her an appreciation for story structure and patience, while production roles taught her execution and decision-making.
Every project, she said, has left a lasting impression on her career.

“Bling Lagosians was interesting because of its scale and production design. Diiche and Itura were important in terms of series structure and storytelling rhythm. King of Thieves (Ageshinkole) was also notable because of the level of audience response it received.”

For Olumuyiwa, the success of projects that resonate with audiences is a reminder that the often-unseen efforts of filmmakers behind the scenes truly matter.

Her approach to filmmaking is inspired by intentional storytelling and disciplined execution. She admires accomplished filmmakers such as Kemi Adetiba and Jade Osiberu, whose works, she said, demonstrate consistency, clarity of vision and global competitiveness without sacrificing Nigerian identity.

Assessing the current state of Nollywood, she described the industry as being in an exciting phase of growth, driven by increased investment, improved structures and growing international attention.

“Nollywood is in a very interesting phase. There is more investment, more structure and more attention from global platforms. But at the same time, the industry is still learning how to balance speed with quality,” she said.

She added that Nigerian audiences have become increasingly receptive to diverse forms of storytelling, whether drama, epic or contemporary narratives, provided the stories are authentic and well executed.

Looking ahead, Olumuyiwa said her ambition is to continue growing as a filmmaker and contribute to projects that can compete on the global stage.

“My goal is to continue growing as a filmmaker and to be part of projects that are well structured and impactful. I want to contribute to films and series that travel well, not just locally but internationally.”

For the filmmaker, every project represents another opportunity to improve, learn and tell better stories.

“Filmmaking is not just creativity. It is discipline, teamwork and vision. Every project teaches you something new, and the goal is to keep improving and telling better stories,” she concluded.