Two of Nollywood’s most successful films, Everybody Loves Jenifa by Funke Akindele and Alakada Bad & Boujee by Toyin Abraham, have shattered records, collectively grossing an impressive ₦2 billion at the Nigerian box office.
These blockbusters, released in December 2024, not only captivated audiences nationwide but also played a pivotal role in pushing the year’s box office revenue to a historic ₦11.58 billion. Their remarkable performance highlights Nollywood’s growing appeal and the continued dominance of these two cinematic powerhouses.
According to FilmOne, a leading film distribution company in West Africa, Funke Akindele’s Everybody Loves Jenifa contributed a staggering ₦1.6 billion to the total, making up 80% of the combined earnings.
Toyin Abraham’s Alakada Bad & Boujee accounted for the remaining 20%, bringing in a solid ₦401 million. The near-simultaneous release of these two films created an exciting wave of competition that delighted fans and significantly boosted the holiday movie season.
Premiering on December 13, 2024, Everybody Loves Jenifa was an instant hit, raking in ₦783 million within its first 14 days. The sequel to Akindele’s beloved franchise broke multiple records, including earning ₦511 million in just 12 days, cementing its status as the highest-grossing Nollywood film of the year.
By its 19th day, the movie had surpassed the ₦1 billion milestone, with 201,604 tickets sold. “This is a testament to the enduring power of great storytelling and audience connection,” Akindele said during a post-premiere interview.
The film’s unique blend of comedy, drama, and social commentary struck a chord with viewers. Many likened its impact to Akindele’s earlier success with A Tribe Called Judah, which earned over ₦1.2 billion during its run. Additionally, Everybody Loves Jenifa enjoyed international success, earning $327,723 in just 22 days.
Its wide appeal reinforced Akindele’s reputation as one of Nollywood’s most influential filmmakers. “I’m deeply grateful for the love and support of my fans. This milestone belongs to all of us,” Akindele expressed on social media.
Toyin Abraham’s Alakada Bad & Boujee, the latest in her popular Alakada series, debuted on December 20, 2024, and also enjoyed remarkable success. The film earned ₦58.6 million during its opening weekend and quickly amassed ₦134 million in its first week.
With its humour, engaging plot, and stellar performances, the movie became a standout holiday release. “This project was made with love for my fans, and I’m thrilled it resonated with them,” Abraham shared in a promotional interview.
The Alakada franchise has a track record of success, with earlier instalments like Alakada Reloaded (2017) earning ₦74.3 million and Fate of Alakada (2020) surpassing ₦100 million within 53 days.
Alakada Bad & Boujee not only builds on this legacy but also solidifies Abraham’s status as one of Nollywood’s most bankable stars. “Toyin Abraham continues to redefine what it means to connect with audiences through relatable stories,” remarked a representative from FilmOne.
Meanwhile, other holiday releases, such as Disney’s Moana (₦395 million) and Mufasa: The Lion King (₦482 million), also performed admirably, further emphasizing the lucrative holiday season. “The diversity in box office hits this year reflects the evolving tastes of Nigerian audiences,” noted Nairametrics in its year-end review.
However, the achievements of Everybody Loves Jenifa and Alakada Bad & Boujee demonstrate that Nollywood films can compete and thrive even in a competitive global market.
As Nollywood celebrates its most successful year yet, these two blockbusters underscore the industry’s resilience and creativity. The contributions of filmmakers like Funke Akindele and Toyin Abraham are not only redefining the box office but also shaping the future of Nigerian cinema. Their stories, filled with humour, heart, and cultural relevance, continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
