Nigerian actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has taken to social media to set the record straight about the staggering N1.8 billion her latest blockbuster,
Everybody Loves Jenifa, has grossed so far. In a candid and humorous post, she clarified that the entire amount does not go directly into her bank account. While the film’s massive earnings have made headlines, Akindele explained that various stakeholders—including cinemas, tax authorities, and distributors—will take their share before she receives her portion. Her statement came in response to fans who assumed she was the sole beneficiary of the impressive box office performance.
The Jenifa star, known for her witty and relatable online presence, playfully urged fans to continue supporting the film so it could reach a new milestone of N2 billion.
“I beg, no be only me get the N1.8 billion o!!! Cinema go collect, tax go collect, distributor go collect!!!!” she wrote in pidgin English. Akindele humorously suggested that she might be able to “settle” only if the film reaches the N2 billion mark.
She then encouraged moviegoers to head to cinemas and help push the film to this historic benchmark. Her message, delivered with her signature humor, sparked excitement among her fans, many of whom vowed to rewatch the film and encourage others to do the same.
Akindele’s success at the box office continues to reinforce her position as Nigeria’s highest-grossing actress. According to FilmOne, a leading movie distribution company, she is the highest-grossing lead actress of 2024.
This achievement is largely credited to Everybody Loves Jenifa, which has not only performed exceptionally well in Nigeria but has also gained international recognition. Akindele’s dominance in the industry is nothing new, as she has consistently delivered box office hits, solidifying her reputation as one of Nollywood’s most bankable stars.
Joining Akindele on the list of top-grossing actresses is Wunmi Toriola, who secured the second position with her movie Queen Lateefah. The film, which resonated with audiences for its strong storyline and stellar performances, further showcased Toriola’s growing influence in Nollywood.
In third place is Toyin Abraham, another industry heavyweight, whose comedy-drama Alakada Bad and Boujee performed remarkably well. The rankings, released by FilmOne on Instagram, provide a clear picture of the female powerhouses driving Nigerian cinema’s financial success in 2024.
Tomike Adeoye claimed the fourth spot with Ajosepo, while Eniola Ajao secured the fifth position for Beast of Two Worlds: Ajakaju. These actresses have demonstrated their ability to draw audiences and maintain a strong presence in the industry.
Sixth place went to Kehinde Bankole for her role in Funmilayo Ransome Kuti, a film that received critical acclaim for its portrayal of the legendary Nigerian activist. Adunni Ade followed closely behind, landing in seventh place with Lakatabu. Each of these actresses has significantly contributed to the success of Nollywood’s box office performance this year.
The list also features Uche Nwaefuna in the eighth spot for her work in Thinline, Silent Intruder, and The Betrayed. Regina Daniels followed in ninth place, proving her continued relevance in the industry. Gbugbemi Ejeye rounded out the top ten with Farmer’s Bride.
These rankings not only celebrate the commercial success of these actresses but also highlight the growing influence of women in Nollywood’s box office dominance. With Funke Akindele leading the charge and urging fans to push Everybody Loves Jenifa to an even greater milestone, the future of Nigerian cinema looks brighter than ever.
