Bolaji Ogunmola steps into the spotlight with ‘Gingerrr’

BY ABIOLA ADIGUN

Nollywood is about to witness another milestone moment as actress and producer Bolaji Ogunmola prepares to unveil her latest project, Gingerrr, which hits cinemas nationwide on September 26, 2025.

The new film is not just another acting gig for Ogunmola — it is a passion project that sees her wearing multiple hats as star, co-producer, and creative force. Joining her in this ambitious collaboration are some of Nollywood’s most familiar faces and power players: Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori (popularly known as KieKie), Bisola Aiyeola, and Wumi Toriola.

The production also boasts an impressive list of executive producers, including Ope Ajayi, Chapel Hill Denham, supervising producer Mznformed, and under the artistic guidance of director Yemi Morafa.

“It’s a dream to create something on this scale with women I respect and admire,” Ogunmola said in a recent interview. “Gingerrr is a story with energy, grit, and heart — and I’m proud of the work we’ve put in.”

For Ogunmola, Gingerrr is more than a film release; it is the culmination of a steady rise in Nollywood built on resilience and artistry. Born and raised in Lagos, she began her education at Philomena Nursery and Primary School in Ebute Metta, continued her secondary education in Ibadan, and later studied business management and entrepreneurship at the National Open University of Nigeria. She also attended the University of Ilorin before honing her acting craft at the Royal Arts Academy.

Her big break came after her appearance in the 2013 Next Movie Star reality show, and her first professional role in Okon Goes to School put her on Nollywood’s radar.

Since then, she has amassed an impressive catalogue of credits across television and film, including Jenifa’s Diary, Lekki Wives, Sobi’s Mystic, Progressive Tailors Club, A Simple Lie, Living with Baami, Broken Deal, Ajosepo, Japa, and now, Gingerrr.
Critics have long pointed to her dual role in Sobi’s Mystic as proof of her versatility, with The News Guru listing her among Nollywood’s “five most promising actresses.”

For that film, she herself admitted: “Playing Aida/Mystic was the most challenging performance of my career — but it also gave me the confidence that I could take on any role.”

Ogunmola has never shied away from addressing industry stereotypes. Known for her striking physique, she has often been cast in roles that emphasise her appearance rather than her skills. But as she explains: “My feminine figure, body language, and charisma are part of who I am — but they don’t diminish my acting talent. They are the subsets of the whole me as an artist.”

That determination to define herself by craft rather than image is echoed in her career choices. Though she has two nominations from the 2018 City People Movie Awards, she insists her focus has always been on “building longevity in the art, not chasing stardom.”

When asked about role models, Ogunmola points to the likes of Biodun Stephen, Mo Abudu, and Oprah Winfrey as inspirations for their vision and business acumen in the creative industries. It’s no surprise then that she is stepping into a more entrepreneurial role with Gingerrr, mirroring their example of blending artistry with enterprise.

And while she has been candid about her personal life — famously telling Vanguard Newspaper, “I am single but not searching. I am independent and working hard to make money. Money is a core ingredient in any successful relationship” — her focus remains squarely on her career.

With a team of formidable women behind it and a mix of powerhouse producers and investors, Gingerrr is shaping up to be one of Nollywood’s most anticipated releases of the year. The film promises not only entertainment but also a statement about collaboration, creativity, and the expanding horizons for Nigerian cinema.

As the countdown to its release begins, all eyes are on Bolaji Ogunmola — the actress who has quietly paid her dues and is now ready to take center stage as both performer and producer.

“This is just the beginning,” she says with a smile. “I want audiences to feel the energy of this film. That’s what Gingerrr is all about.”