2024 marked a historic year for Nollywood, with the Nigerian film industry experiencing unprecedented success at the box office. Blending local storytelling with universal appeal, Nollywood cemented its position as a powerhouse in global cinema. The top 10 highest-grossing films of the year collectively generated an impressive ₦4.91 billion, showcasing the industry’s growing influence and commercial viability.
Newsanalytrics takes a closer look at these record-breaking hits, their narratives, and the creators behind them.
1. Everybody Loves Jenifa – ₦1.124 Billion
At the pinnacle of the 2024 box office is Funke Akindele’s Everybody Loves Jenifa. As a sequel in the beloved Jenifa franchise, the comedy-drama continued the quirky adventures of Jenifa, an eccentric character navigating life’s challenges. Its relatable storyline, witty humor, and Akindele’s exceptional direction made it a fan favorite and the highest-grossing Nollywood film of the year.
2. Deadpool & Wolverine – ₦706.7 Million
The Marvel blockbuster brought together two iconic superheroes in a crossover that resonated deeply with Nigerian audiences. Combining Hollywood’s action-packed storytelling with local enthusiasm for the superhero genre, the film achieved phenomenal success, solidifying its place as a box office juggernaut in Nigeria.
3. A Tribe Called Judah – ₦400 Million (initial), ₦1.4 Billion (total)
Adeoluwa Owu and Funke Akindele teamed up to tell the powerful story of a resilient single mother raising five sons. This Nollywood drama, featuring stellar performances and an emotionally compelling narrative, captivated viewers, making it one of the most successful films of the year, with cumulative earnings exceeding ₦1 billion.
4. Bad Boys 4: Ride or Die – ₦458.1 Million
Starring Hollywood icons Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, Bad Boys 4 brought adrenaline-pumping action to Nigerian screens. The movie’s high-octane sequences and thrilling plot made it a hit with action film lovers, proving that blockbuster franchises continue to dominate Nigerian cinema.
5. Gladiator II – ₦398.2 Million
This sequel to the 2000 historical classic captivated audiences with its gripping storytelling and visually stunning action scenes. Its opening weekend haul of ₦99.1 million highlighted its appeal to both history enthusiasts and fans of action-packed epics.
6. Moana 2 – ₦366.7 Million
Disney’s animated sequel charmed Nigerian families with its vibrant visuals and heartwarming themes of adventure and resilience. Its strong box office performance underscored the popularity of animated films among diverse age groups in Nigeria.
7. Queen Lateefah – ₦365.5 Million
Starring Kunle Remi, Femi Adebayo, and Nancy Isime, this Nollywood drama explored themes of ambition and secrecy. With a compelling plot and an all-star cast, Queen Lateefah became a standout hit, earning its spot as one of the year’s top-grossing films.
8. Venom 3 – ₦317.8 Million
The third installment in the Venom franchise drew superhero enthusiasts to the cinemas, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Marvel’s cinematic universe in Nigeria. Its success reaffirmed the strong market for Hollywood blockbusters in the region.
9. Mufasa: The Lion King – ₦309 Million
As a prequel to Disney’s 2019 remake of The Lion King, Mufasa enchanted viewers with its breathtaking visuals and emotionally rich storyline. Its ₦64 million opening weekend earnings reflected its universal appeal.
10. Àjosepò – ₦257.3 Million
Kayode Kasum’s comedy-drama, featuring Timini Egbuson, Mercy Aigbe, and Yemi Solade, delivered a heartwarming tale of family and love. With an engaging plot and a relatable narrative, Àjosepò resonated deeply with audiences, securing its place as one of the top films of 2024.
The Rise of Nollywood: A Cultural and Economic Phenomenon
The success of these films reflects Nollywood’s growing ability to produce high-quality content that appeals to both local and international audiences. With dynamic storytelling, innovative production techniques, and the ability to tackle diverse genres, the Nigerian film industry is setting new benchmarks for global cinema.
As Nollywood continues to thrive, its rising box office revenues signal a bright future. From groundbreaking local dramas to international blockbusters, 2024 has solidified Nollywood’s reputation as a cultural and economic force to be reckoned with.
