The Nigerian film industry has evolved far beyond its humble beginnings. What was once a largely informal sector driven by passion and improvisation has steadily transformed into a formidable economic force. Today, Nollywood is not only a cultural export but also a multi-billion-naira industry that provides jobs for thousands and attracts global attention. Cinema releases, strategic marketing, star power, and improved production quality have all combined to push Nigerian films to unprecedented box-office heights.
Over the years, several titles have stood out for their commercial dominance, drawing massive audiences and redefining what success looks like in Nigerian cinema. From rib-cracking comedies to family dramas packed with emotion, these films didn’t just entertain—they broke records and shifted industry expectations. Below is a refreshed look at the Top 10 highest-grossing Nollywood movies and how they earned their place in history.
Everybody Loves Jenifa (2024) – ₦1.88 Billion
Topping the list is the record-shattering return of Funke Akindele’s iconic Jenifa character. Co-directed by Akindele herself, the film blends humour, pop culture references, celebrity appearances, and social observations into a crowd-pleasing spectacle. Its extraordinary box-office run set a new benchmark for Nollywood, officially making it the highest-grossing Nigerian film ever released.
A Tribe Called Judah (2023) – ₦1.40 Billion
Another Funke Akindele-led project, this emotionally charged family film struck a chord with audiences nationwide. The story follows a struggling mother and her five sons, each with distinct personalities and challenges. The mix of comedy, sentiment, and relatable family dynamics helped the film cross the elusive ₦1 billion mark.
Battle on Buka Street (2022) – ₦668 Million
Set against the backdrop of a lively neighbourhood, this film centres on two feuding women whose rivalry plays out through food, family, and pride. Its humorous storytelling and familiar community setting resonated deeply with viewers, making it one of Nollywood’s most profitable releases of its time.
Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020) – ₦636 Million
Before billion-naira box-office figures became common, Omo Ghetto: The Saga was the film to beat. With its gritty humour, exaggerated characters, and street-inspired energy, the movie became a pop-culture moment, dominating conversations during its theatrical run.
Alakada: Bad and Boujee (2024) – ₦500 Million
This instalment of the popular Alakada franchise continued its tradition of mocking social pretence and class obsession. Its success proved that satire, when rooted in everyday Nigerian experiences, still has a strong commercial appeal.
The Wedding Party (2016) – ₦452 Million
Widely regarded as a turning point for modern Nollywood cinema, this romantic comedy changed the perception of what Nigerian films could earn theatrically. With its star-studded cast, lavish wedding scenes, and universal humour, it laid the foundation for today’s blockbuster culture.
The Wedding Party 2 (2017) – ₦433 Million
Building on the success of the original, the sequel delivered even more drama, destination glamour, and comedic chaos. Its strong box-office showing confirmed Nollywood’s ability to sustain successful franchises.
Chief Daddy (2018) – ₦388 Million
Packed with industry heavyweights, this comedy-drama explored family greed and entitlement following the death of a wealthy patriarch. Its ensemble cast and humorous take on inheritance battles made it a commercial hit.
Queen Lateefah (2024) – ₦366 Million+
Led by Wunmi Toriola, this film surprised many with its impressive box-office performance outside the typical festive release window. Its success highlighted the growing influence of female-led narratives in Nollywood.
Reel Love (2025) – ₦354 Million
One of the most recent additions to the list, Reel Love, demonstrated that Nollywood’s box-office momentum remains strong. Its solid performance in cinemas confirmed that audiences are still eager for fresh, well-marketed stories.
Beyond the numbers, these films became cultural touchstones—fueling online conversations, fashion trends, memes, and catchphrases. While star actors like Funke Akindele, Timini Egbuson, and Wunmi Toriola drew crowds, it was the authenticity of the stories that kept viewers returning to cinemas. Today, Nollywood regularly records figures once thought impossible, signalling an industry that has truly come of age.
