Some Prominent Nigerian Soap Operas Of 1980 - 2000s Era

Some notable Nigerian Soap Operas that were quite popular, especially in the 80s, 90s, and early 2000.....

1). The Village Headmaster (1968–1988)
- One of Nigeria’s earliest and longest-running TV dramas, originally a radio program before transitioning to television. It depicted life in a Yoruba village and addressed social issues.

2. New Masquerade (Mid-1970s–Mid-1990s)
- A popular sitcom known for its comedic portrayal of Nigerian society, featuring the iconic character Chief Zebrudaya.

3). Tales by Moonlight
- Is a cherished Nigerian children's television program that first aired on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in 1984. It was created by Nkem Oselloka-Orakwue, affectionately known as "Auntie Nkem," with the aim of preserving and promoting African cultural traditions through storytelling.

4). Mirror in the Sun (1984–1986)
- A soap opera focusing on the lives of middle and upper-class families in Lagos

5). Cockcrow at Dawn (Early 1980s)
- An edutainment series promoting agriculture and rural development, sponsored by NTA and United Bank for Africa. Marketing Edge Magazine

6). Basi and Company (1986–1990)
- A satirical comedy about a man’s quest to become a millionaire through dubious means, created by Ken Saro-Wiwa.

7). Things Fall Apart (1987)
- A television adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s novel, starring Pete Edochie as Okonkwo.

8 ). Checkmate (1991–1995)
- Created by Amaka Igwe, it’s one of Nigeria’s most iconic soap operas. It tackled social issues, class, and family drama. It starred actors like Richard Mofe-Damijo and Ego Boyo

9). Behind the Clouds (Mid-1990s)
- Set in Jos, this drama focused on family dynamics and societal issues in Northern Nigeria.

10). Fuji House of Commotion
- Is a Nigerian sitcom. It focused on a polygamous family and their chaotic but funny daily lives. Produced and directed by Amaka Igwe, the show was a spin-off of nineties soap opera Checkmate - one of the few Nigerian television programmes to have obtained that status.

11). I Need To Know
- An educational drama about teen life, puberty, and health issues. It starred a young Funke Akindele and was sponsored by UNFPA.

12). Everyday People
- A weekday TV series that portrayed the lives of average Nigerians, covering relationships, family, and moral lessons. It featured actors like Sam Loco Efe and Carol King.

13). Dear Mother
- A family-focused drama from the late 90s/early 2000s that aired on AIT, showing mother-daughter relationships, discipline, and teenage troubles.

14). Super Story (Late 1990s – present)
- Though not as old as some others, it's a major series by Wale Adenuga Productions. Each season is a different story, often based on societal issues and moral lessons.

15). Heaven’s Gate
- A faith-based drama series that aired in the early 2000s, focusing on redemption, family, and spiritual battles.

16). Family Circle
- Aired in the late 90s and early 2000s. It was centered on the lives of a middle-class Nigerian family and explored parenting, discipline, and values.

17). Binta My Daughter
- Is another classic Nigerian soap opera that many viewers remember fondly. It aired primarily on AIT (Africa Independent Television) in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

18). Papa Ajasco and Company
- Also by Wale Adenuga, it started as a sitcom but had strong elements of a soap opera with its continuing storylines and commentary on Nigerian society.

19). This Life
- Was a staple on Nigerian television, reflecting societal issues and family dynamics, and its theme song remains a nostalgic piece for many who grew up watching the series.

20). Family Ties
- Is a Nigerian television drama series produced by Wale Adenuga Productions (WAP), renowned for creating impactful family-centered shows like Super Story and This Life.

21). The KKB Show (short for Kiddies’ Klub Broadcasting
- Was a children’s and teen variety TV program that aired in Nigeria, especially popular in the early to mid-2000s.

22). My Mom and I
- Is a Nigerian family sitcom that aired in the early to mid-2000s, and it remains fondly remembered by many Nigerians who grew up during that era.

23). Domino
- Is a notable Nigerian soap opera that aired in the mid-2000s, capturing audiences with its compelling storytelling and production quality.

24). Face 2 Face
- Is another well-loved Nigerian TV sitcom that aired in the mid to late 2000s, and it was especially popular for its comedy and relatable everyday themes.

25). Clinic Matters
- Is a Nigerian comedy-drama TV series that became very popular in the late 2000s to early 2010s

26). Nowhere to Be Found
- Is a Nigerian television drama series that gained popularity in the early 2010s. Produced by AK Media Concept, the show delves into themes of family, love, betrayal, and societal challenges.

27). Taste of Love (2014)
- Nigeria’s first telenovela, depicting the intertwined lives of three families.

28). Wetin Dey
- Is another notable Nigerian television drama series, known for its realistic portrayal of urban life and youth issues.

29). The Bachelors
- Is a Nigerian comedy series that humorously explores the lives of young men navigating relationships, careers, and urban life. The show has garnered attention for its relatable themes and engaging storytelling.

30). So Wrong, So Wright
- Is a Nigerian television drama series that first aired in 2009. The show centers on the Wright family, exploring their daily lives and the challenges they face, often highlighting moral lessons and family values.

31). Squatterz
- Is a Nigerian comedy TV series that became popular in the early to mid-2010s. It’s part of the new wave of Nigerian sitcoms that blended youthful energy, humor, and urban Lagos life.

32. Jenifa's Diary
- Is a Nigerian comedy-drama sitcom created by Funke Akindele in 2015, who also stars in the lead role as Jenifa. Jenifa's Diary became a cultural phenomenon and is one of the longest-running Nigerian sitcoms, with over 20 seasons.

It also led to spin-offs like "Aiyetoro Town." Funke Akindele’s performance as Jenifa earned her multiple awards and recognition across Africa.

33. Tinsel (2008–Present)
- A drama series set in the Nigerian film industry, exploring rivalries and personal relationships.