Nollywood, Africa’s largest film industry and one of the most prolific in the world, has come a long way from its early days of low-budget home videos. Today, it produces cinematic blockbusters that rake in billions of naira at the box office, making them the highest-grossing Nigerian movies. With rising production standards and a new generation of visionary filmmakers, the industry is breaking records like never before.
In this article, we explore the highest-grossing Nigerian movies of all time—films that prove audiences at home and abroad are more than willing to support compelling, homegrown stories. From laugh-out-loud comedies to emotional family dramas and unforgettable romantic tales, these box office hits are a testament to Nollywood’s growth and global appeal.
Highest-Grossing Nigerian Movies of All Time
Everybody Loves Jenifa (2024) – ₦1.88 Billion+
A Tribe Called Judah (2023) – ₦1.4 Billion
Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020) – ₦636 Million
The Wedding Party (2016) – ₦452.2 Million
Queen Lateefah (2024) – ₦365.5 Million
1. Everybody Loves Jenifa (2024) – ₦1.88 Billion+
Directed by: Funke Akindele & Tunde Olaoye
Genre: Comedy-Drama
Smashing all previous box office records, Everybody Loves Jenifa is the highest-grossing Nigerian film of all time. Directed by Funke Akindele, who also stars in the lead role alongside Tunde Olaoye, the film is a continuation of the beloved Jenifa franchise. Its humorous yet touching take on societal issues and personal growth resonated widely with fans across Nigeria and the diaspora, pulling in over ₦1.88 billion in earnings.
2. A Tribe Called Judah (2023) – ₦1.4 Billion
Directed by: Funke Akindele
Genre: Family Drama
Before Everybody Loves Jenifa stole the spotlight, A Tribe Called Judah was one of the most successful Nollywood films. Directed and produced by Funke Akindele, this emotional family drama grossed ₦1.4 billion at the box office. It was lauded for its powerful storyline, strong ensemble cast, and emotional depth, cementing Akindele’s status as a powerhouse in Nollywood filmmaking.
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3. Queen Lateefah (2024) – ₦365.5 Million
Directed by: Adeoluwa Owu
Genre: Drama
Directed by Adeoluwa Owu and headlined by the talented Wumi Toriola, Queen Lateefah emerged as one of 2024’s box office surprises, grossing ₦365.5 million. The film combined rich storytelling with strong character portrayals, particularly highlighting the strength and resilience of the modern African woman. Its commercial success signalled a growing appetite for nuanced dramas in Nollywood.
4. Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020) – ₦636 Million
Directed by: Funke Akindele
Genre: Action-Comedy
Another hit from the unstoppable Funke Akindele, Omo Ghetto: The Saga was a cultural phenomenon upon its release in 2020. Grossing ₦636 million, it held the record for the highest-grossing Nollywood film for several years. The action-packed comedy blended gritty storytelling with humour and street-smart wisdom, endearing it to audiences far and wide.
5. The Wedding Party (2016) – ₦452.2 Million
Directed by: Kemi Adetiba
Genre: Romantic Comedy
The film that set the modern standard for big-budget Nollywood romcoms, The Wedding Party, was a box office juggernaut when it premiered. Directed by Kemi Adetiba, the film raked in ₦452.2 million, introducing a wave of glamorous, cinema-friendly Nollywood productions. Its success also paved the way for sequels and a trend of romantic comedies in Nigerian cinema.
The Bigger Picture
These top earners are more than just successful movies; they reflect Nollywood’s growing influence, both in Nigeria and globally. With rising production values, increased audience loyalty, and international streaming deals, Nollywood continues to prove that African stories have global appeal.
The Future of Nollywood: Breaking Records and Raising the Bar
As Nollywood continues to break new ground and shatter records, these films are powerful benchmarks of the industry’s creativity, resilience, and immense potential. With storytellers like Funke Akindele and Kemi Adetiba at the helm, the future of Nigerian cinema looks brighter than ever.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of all time?
A: Everybody Loves Jenifa (2024), directed by Funke Akindele and Tunde Olaoye, holds the top spot with over ₦1.88 billion in box office revenue.
Q2: Who is the most successful Nollywood director at the box office?
A: Funke Akindele is the most successful, with multiple entries on the highest-grossing list, including A Tribe Called Judah, Omo Ghetto: The Saga, and Everybody Loves Jenifa.
Q3: What genre performs best in Nollywood?
A: Comedy and family dramas tend to perform exceptionally well, particularly those with relatable Nigerian themes and strong ensemble casts.
Q4: How does Nollywood compare to Hollywood or Bollywood regarding revenue?
A: While Nollywood films don’t yet match Hollywood or Bollywood revenues globally, the industry is among the top three film producers in volume and continues to expand its international footprint.
Q5: What factors contribute to a Nollywood film’s box office success?
A: Strong storytelling, star power, relatable themes, marketing strategies, and strategic cinema releases are key drivers of a film’s commercial performance in Nollywood.
