Nigerian Box Office Records 60% Growth, Hits ₦11.5bn In 2024

The Nigerian film industry has achieved remarkable growth, with the box office recording a significant 60 percent increase in revenue in 2024.

According to the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN), ticket sales across cinemas generated ₦11.5 billion in 2024, a substantial rise from the ₦7.2 billion recorded in 2023.

CEAN’s National Chairman, Mr. Ope Ajayi, revealed this in an interview in Lagos recently. He noted that cinemas across the country welcomed approximately 2.66 million moviegoers in 2024, compared to 2.54 million in 2023—a 4.5 percent growth in admissions despite challenging economic conditions.

“This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the resilience, creativity, and determination of the industry,” Mr. Ajayi said. “It is also the first time we have seen growth in admissions since 2020, signalling a significant recovery in the cinema subsector.”

Highlighting the success of Nollywood, he explained that Everybody Loves Jennifer emerged as the highest-grossing film of the year, raking in an impressive ₦1.124 billion. It was followed by Queen Lateefah, which earned ₦365.5 million, while Ajosepo secured ₦257.3 million. Ajakaju also made a significant impact with ₦252.8 million, and Alakada Bad & Boujee rounded out the list with ₦229.1 million. Mr. Ajayi stated that Everybody Loves Jennifer and Alakada Bad & Boujee are still showing in cinemas, continuing to draw audiences and contribute to box office revenues.

On the international front, Hollywood blockbusters also played an essential role in driving cinema traffic. Films such as Deadpool & Wolverine, Bad Boys 4, Gladiator II, Moana 2, and Venom 3 topped the charts as the most-watched foreign movies in Nigeria in 2024.

This impressive growth highlights the resilience and appeal of the Nigerian cinema industry, positioning it for even greater achievements in the coming years.