Niyi Akinmolayan (born 3 November 1982 in Ondo State, Nigeria) is a renowned Nigerian filmmaker, director, and media consultant celebrated for his dynamic contributions to Nollywood. A graduate of Yaba College of Technology in Engineering, his passion for animation and storytelling inspired a creative pivot that laid the foundation for his film career.

He is the visionary founder and Creative Director of Anthill Studios, established in the late 2000s, which has become one of Nigeria’s foremost film production and post-production companies.

Niyi is best known for directing blockbuster and critically acclaimed Nollywood films such as The Wedding Party 2, Chief Daddy, Prophetess, My Village People, The Set Up, and the historical epic Lisabi: The Uprising. His groundbreaking work spans genres, from family comedies to historical dramas and sci-fi experiments like Kajola, marking him as one of Nollywood’s most successful and innovative directors.

Anthill Studios further cemented its global presence through a multi-year streaming deal with Amazon Prime Video in January 2022, ensuring that its film slate would reach global audiences following theatrical runs in Nigeria.

Niyi’s early work, like the ambitious sci-fi feature Kajola (2010), though not a commercial success, paved the way for technological innovation in Nollywood, especially pushing boundaries in animation, visual effects, and CGI.