The Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, has hit a groundbreaking milestone, raking in over ₦10 billion in box office revenue by August 2025, according to the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN). This marks a stellar 58% surge from the ₦6.4 billion recorded in the same period last year, showcasing Nollywood’s growing dominance and the appetite for cinema among Nigerians.
Cinema admissions also soared, with 1.84 million tickets sold—a 16% jump from 2024’s 1.59 million. The surge reflects a vibrant mix of local blockbusters and Hollywood hits, with Nollywood films leading the charge. Standout titles include Funke Akindele’s Everybody Loves Jenifa, which grossed over ₦1.88 billion, becoming the highest-grossing Nigerian film ever, and Ori: The Rebirth, a Yoruba epic earning ₦419.1 million. Hollywood heavyweights like Moana 2 (₦400 million) and Captain America: Brave New World (₦396 million) also pulled crowds, but Nigerian stories are stealing the spotlight.
This milestone highlights Nollywood’s resilience amid economic challenges and its cultural impact, with over 100 cinemas nationwide driving accessibility. Industry experts project the creative economy, employing 4.2 million, could create 2.7 million more jobs by 2030, with cinema as a key player. As streaming platforms grow, Nigerians are still flocking to theaters, proving Nollywood’s storytelling is a force to be reckoned with.
