The Nigerian film industry, known as Nollywood, has experienced an exciting surge in 2024. With a remarkable 60% increase in box office earnings, Nollywood is proving to the world that it’s not just a local powerhouse—it’s a global contender.
Ope Ajayi, the National Chairman of the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN), shared exciting news about the industry’s growth in 2024 during an interview with journalists in Lagos.
According to Ajayi, ticket sales across Nigerian cinemas in 2024 hit an impressive ₦11.5 billion (around $14.38 million), marking a significant increase compared to ₦7.2 billion (approximately $9 million) in 2023. This surge reflects the growing popularity of Nigerian films and the resilience of the industry. Ajayi also revealed that the number of cinema-goers in 2024 reached 2.66 million, compared to 2.54 million in 2023—showing a steady increase despite the challenges posed by the tough economic climate. “We’ve seen a remarkable 60% growth in revenue and about 4.5% growth in admissions in 2024,” he said, adding that the strong performance at the box office demonstrates the growing appeal of Nollywood films, even in challenging times.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the top-performing films and their lead stars that have made 2024 a record-breaking year.
Top Earning Nollywood Films of 2024: The Blockbusters You Can’t Miss
“Everybody Loves Jennifa” led the pack with a huge ₦1.124 billion (around $1.4 million) at the box office. This heartwarming drama has captured the audience’s attention and is still showing in cinemas, so expect this number to keep growing.
“Queen Lateefah” also had a stellar run, bringing in ₦365.5 million (approximately $456,000). The film’s compelling storyline and star performances have made it a fan favorite.
“Ajosepo” earned ₦257.3 million (around $321,000), marking it as another solid hit in Nollywood’s 2024 lineup.
“Ajakaju” grossed ₦252.8 million (roughly $316,000), adding to the list of must-watch films in the industry.
“Alakada Bad & Boujee” rounded out the top earners with ₦229.1 million (around $286,000), and this comedy is still enjoying success in cinemas.
These films not only contributed massively to Nollywood’s record-breaking box office earnings in 2024 but also proved that the Nigerian film industry is producing content that resonates with audiences locally and beyond. What’s even more impressive is that “Everybody Loves Jennifer” and “Alakada Bad & Boujee” are still in cinemas, so their final earnings could be even higher as the year continues.
Nollywood Stars: Who Are Stealing the Spotlight
Nollywood’s success in 2024 is not just due to great films—it’s also thanks to the incredible talent of its stars. These actors have not only captured the hearts of Nigerian audiences but are also making waves internationally.
Wumi Toriola –she has emerged as one of Nollywood’s brightest stars. Her role in Queen Lateefah showcased her immense acting talent, earning her widespread acclaim and solidifying her status as one of the top performers of 2024.
Ramsey Nouah – The Veteran Who Continues to Dominate his name has been synonymous with Nollywood for years. His return to the big screen in Living in Bondage: Breaking Free proved that he is still one of the industry’s most bankable stars, drawing large crowds with every role he takes on.
Omotola Jalade Ekeinde – The Queen of Versatility, her performance in Mortal Inheritance further cemented her place as a Nollywood legend. With her stunning range and ability to captivate any audience, Omotola remains one of Nigeria’s most beloved actresses.
Sola Sobowale – A Force to Be Reckoned With, her fierce portrayal of the titular character in King of Boys: The Return of the King has earned her the title of one of Nollywood’s most powerful stars. She brings depth and intensity to every role, and her presence continues to dominate the industry.
Iconic Nollywood Films That Have Shaped the Industry
While 2024 has been a standout year, Nollywood’s history is filled with films that have shaped its growth and recognition. From groundbreaking releases to box-office giants, these films have made a lasting impact on both the Nigerian film industry and the global cinematic landscape.
Lionheart – Released in 2018, Lionheart made history as the first Nigerian film to be submitted for the Oscars. Genevieve Nnaji’s role in this film helped her gain international recognition and put Nollywood on the global map. It remains a shining example of the industry’s potential for global success.
The Wedding Party – This romantic comedy, starring Banky W and Adesua Etomi, became one of the highest-grossing Nollywood films of all time. Released in 2016, it remains a cultural phenomenon that proved Nollywood could create films with wide, cross-border appeal.
Fifty – A Powerful Female-Centric Film, released in 2015, told the stories of four women in their fifties dealing with the complexities of life, love, and personal growth. The film’s ensemble cast, featuring Omoni Oboli, Nse Ikpe-Etim, and Dakore Akande, offered a refreshing perspective and became an instant classic.
Shanty Town – The Gritty Action Drama of 2024, one of the latest hits, Shanty Town, released in 2024, quickly captured the attention of both local and international audiences. Its action-packed storyline and powerhouse performances from Richard Mofe-Damijo and Nse Ikpe-Etim have made it a must-watch.
Looking Ahead: Nollywood’s Future in 2025 and Beyond
The future of Nollywood is bright. With record-breaking years like 2024, it’s clear that Nollywood is not only here to stay but is poised to take over the global entertainment scene. The industry’s commitment to creating high-quality, diverse content has earned it a loyal following both at home and abroad. As new platforms emerge and international collaboration increases, Nollywood will continue to dominate the cinematic world for years to come.
This article explored the stellar growth of Nollywood in 2024, highlighting the top films, superstars, and the global expansion of the industry. With its impressive box office numbers and breakout performances, Nollywood is ready to make an even bigger impact in 2025 and beyond. Stay tuned for more updates on the industry’s exciting journey!
