2024 has been a remarkable year for Nollywood, with a consistent flow of new releases and standout performances hitting the screens each month. The Nigerian entertainment scene is undeniably a key asset to both the economy and the nation, with the film and music industries leading the way in contributing to the country’s GDP.
These industries are also helping to spread Nigerian culture far beyond the continent. As Afrobeats continues to gain global popularity, Nollywood has also experienced significant growth. From the pioneering success of 30 Days in Atlanta to the global recognition of The Black Book on Netflix, and A Tribe Called Judah, which became a record-breaking hit at the Nigerian Box Office, Nollywood is a clear reflection of the immense talent in Nigeria.
It’s no surprise that filmmakers like Funke Akindele, Jade Osiberu, Editi Effiong, and Kunle Afolayan have thrived in the industry. Nollywood has not only enhanced its production quality but has also excelled in storytelling, cultural representation, and the promotion of films.
The industry has firmly established itself on the global stage, drawing international attention. Now, even more creative stories are being told, with new films being released every year. While last year saw a record-breaking number of top-grossing Nollywood films, this year has been equally impressive.
Here are the top Nigerian highest-grossing movies of 2024
1. Criminal (N55.8M)
A report published by CEAN for the week of June 14 to June 20 reveals that Criminal dropped from fourth to sixth place, earning N8.2 million that week and bringing its total earnings to N45.7 million since its release on May 31, 2024.
Currently, the crime-thriller film has grossed N55.8 million. Directed by Dolapo Adigun, the film follows an ex-felon and his gang as they take a hospital hostage to save the life of his dying brother.
2. Blacksmith: Alagbede (N103.7M)
Blacksmith secured third place in May 2024, earning N11.3 million during its opening weekend, according to the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) report on weekly box office earnings. In May, the film grossed a total of N44.3 million, and to date, it has earned N103.7 million.
This Yoruba drama-comedy with elements of romance, written by Adejonwo Fimisola and Jaiye Kuti, tells the story of a love affair between a blacksmith and a school teacher from opposite social classes, who must navigate societal stigma.
3. What About Us (N103.7M)
What About Us achieved remarkable success in its first three days of release starting June 12, grossing N24.6 million at the Nigerian Box Office. According to the movie’s distributor, Filmoneng, it became the highest-grossing film during the weekend from July 12 to July 14.
While still in theaters, the film has earned N103.7 million since its release. The story centers on a couple’s struggling relationship, which worsens when a new neighbor moves in next door. The movie also marks the debut executive production of Emmanuel Iren, lead pastor at Celebration Church International.
4. All’s Fair In Love (N132M)
The rom-com, written and produced by Deyemi Okanlawon, earned N7.6 million in ticket sales on February 14, 2024, and N10.4 million during its advanced screening two days later. Within six months, it had grossed N132 million, exceeding Box Office expectations for a love-themed film.
The movie marks Deyemi Okanlawon’s debut as a film producer and became the second most-watched Nigerian movie on Prime Video upon release. Directed by Kayode Kasum, it tells the story of two best friends and business partners who thrive together until they both fall in love with Mbali, creating a love triangle.
5. Muri And Ko (N136M)
The comedy-drama exceeded N50 million in its first week of release in June. Within three weeks, it had grossed over N89 million, reaching a total of N136 million at the Nigerian Box Office.
Directed by Biodun Stephen, Muri & Ko stars Kunle Remi, Bisola Aiyeola, and Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori (Kiekie). The film follows the story of a Lagos street hustler who steals a car, only for his life to take a dramatic turn when he unexpectedly discovers an 8-year-old child in the backseat.
6. Farmer’s Bride (138M)
Still playing in cinemas nationwide, Film One Studios’ original Farmer’s Bride currently holds the 10th spot among the highest-grossing Nigerian films, with earnings of ₦138 million.
Directed by Adebayo Tijani and Jac’kenneth Opukeme, the film tells the story of a bold and risky pursuit of love. It stars Tobi Bakre, Gbubemi Ejeye, Efe Irele, Femi Branch, Mercy Aigbe, and Wunmi Toriola.
7. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti (N157M)
The highly anticipated biopic of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti has earned a total of N157 million at the Nigerian Box Office, surpassing the N100 million mark.
Directed and produced by Bolanle Austin-Peters, the film chronicles the life and journey of the renowned Nigerian activist, educationist, and mother of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti. Although it had a limited seven-day run in September 2023, the movie was officially released in Nigerian theaters on May 17, 2024.
It has since received notable recognition, including awards for Best Overall Feature Film and Best Screenplay at the 12th edition of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF), and Best Writing (Movie) at the Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards (AMVCA).
8. Lakatabu (N202.2M)
In July 2024, the crime thriller Lakatabu held the top spot for two consecutive weeks as the highest-grossing film. The Yoruba-language film earned N168 million in July, making it one of the most successful indigenous releases of the year.
It has since soared to N202.2 million, according to Nigerian Box Office reports. Written and produced by award-winning actor Odunlade Adekola, the film tells the story of a criminal who wreaks havoc across the land. His downfall comes when he kidnaps the daughter of his enemy.
9. Ajakaju: Beasts of Two Worlds (N252.8M)
The Eniola Ajao-Nollywood project, released on March 29, 2024, secured its spot as the second highest-grossing Nollywood film of the year, with a total of N252.8 million. The Yoruba-language thriller crossed the N100 million mark within five days, becoming the 31st Nollywood film to achieve this milestone.
Directed by Odunlade Adekola, who also stars as the lead character and Adebayo Tijani, the film tells the story of a King’s desperate quest for an heir as he struggles to protect his throne.
10. Ajosepo (N257.2M)
Ajosepo earned N51.9 million in its first week of release, from April 10 to 16, and has since reached N257.2 million, making it the highest-grossing Nollywood film of the year so far.
Directed by Kayode Kasum, the comedy-drama tells the story of a young couple preparing for their wedding. Tensions, secrets, and family conflicts arise, threatening to derail their big day.
