Kemi Adetiba was born on January 8, 1980, in Lagos, Nigeria, to esteemed communications engineer, Dele Adetiba and renowned civil engineer and actress Mayen Adetiba. Raised in a culturally rich environment, Kemi’s creative journey began early. As a child, she featured in a popular OMO detergent commercial, setting the tone for a career deeply rooted in media and entertainment.
Kemi earned a bachelor’s degree in law from the University of Lagos. However, her passion for storytelling soon led her to pivot from law to media. She launched her professional career in the Nigerian entertainment scene as a radio presenter with Rhythm 93.7 FM, where she hosted hit shows like Soul’d Out and Sunday at the Seaside.
Her magnetic personality and clear vision transitioned her into television, where she became a familiar face on Maltina Dance All and Temptation Nigeria. She later honed her skills in film and production at the New York Film Academy, setting the stage for a groundbreaking career in filmmaking.
Kemi’s journey from a broadcaster to a filmmaker marked a transformative shift in her life. She gained massive recognition for her 2016 debut feature film, The Wedding Party, which broke Nigerian box office records. She later directed the gripping King of Boys series, which further cemented her status as one of Africa’s leading female directors. In 2021, she got engaged to Ghanaian music executive Oscar Heman-Ackah, and in a moment of joy celebrated by fans across Africa, the couple tied the knot in a private ceremony.
Adetiba has consistently pushed creative boundaries. She directed music videos for notable artists such as Banky W, Ty Bello, and Olamide before transitioning fully into filmmaking. Her breakout film, The Wedding Party, grossed over ₦450 million and redefined Nollywood box office expectations. King of Boys introduced Nigerian audiences to a new genre of political thrillers, led by a female anti-hero. The sequel, which debuted on Netflix, earned her critical acclaim and positioned her as a pioneer of Nollywood streaming content.
In 2025, Kemi Adetiba directed “To Kill a Monkey”, arguably the most talked-about film of the year. The series captivated audiences across the world with its bold themes, gripping cinematography, and stellar performances. The film topped the Netflix chart in Nigeria and became the number one film globally on the platform, while also securing top 10 spots in countries like the United Kingdom and South Africa. Her husband, Oscar Heman-Ackah, curated an official Spotify playlist for the series, adding a rich soundscape to its visual storytelling.
Kemi has earned numerous recognitions, including features on Forbes Africa, Guardian Life, and BBC, as well as international speaking engagements and collaborations
Indeed, Kemi has built a legacy of daring, discipline, and excellence. She has influenced a generation of filmmakers, especially women to embrace complex stories and strive for excellence in production. Through her signature KOB Studios, she mentors upcoming creatives, offers internship opportunities, and invests in capacity-building within the industry.
Her works have reshaped the global perception of Nollywood, proving that African stories hold weight and value beyond borders. She uses her platform to address themes of justice, gender, and power, ensuring that her storytelling leaves a lasting mark on both society and the screen.
Adetiba’s life stands as a masterclass in courage, reinvention, and creative excellence. From hosting radio shows to commanding film sets, she has remained committed to telling authentic African stories with global relevance.
In 2025, her groundbreaking series “To Kill a Monkey” set new industry standards and reaffirmed her position as a visionary leader in film. She continues to influence culture, inspire new voices, and expand the limits of what Nigerian cinema can achieve. Through resilience and creativity, Kemi Adetiba proves that one woman’s story can ignite a global movement.
THE WORLD OF KEMI ADETIBA
