Nollywood’s Box Office Champions in 2024

In a groundbreaking year for Nigerian cinema, FilmOne Entertainment’s data reveals the directors who have pushed creative boundaries and achieved remarkable commercial success. With a criteria of films released that grossed over 20 million naira by December 31st, 2025, these filmmakers have demonstrated that ambitious storytelling and box office success can go hand in hand.

Funke Akindele & Tunde Olaoye (₦1.125B)

The phenomenal success of Everybody Loves Jenifa proves that lightning can strike twice. Akindele, already a force in Nigerian entertainment, partnered with Olaoye to reinvent her iconic character for a new era. The film skillfully balances nostalgia with contemporary social commentary, following Jenifa as she navigates the complexities of social media influence and entrepreneurship. Their direction brought out nuanced performances from both veteran actors and newcomers while maintaining the character’s beloved humor. The film’s record-breaking opening weekend set the tone for its spectacular run.

Adebayo Tijani (₦649M)

Tijani’s versatility shines through his 2024 portfolio. Beast of Two Worlds: Ajakaju masterfully blends traditional folklore with modern storytelling techniques. His work on Alakada: Bad and Boujee brought fresh energy to the franchise, while Farmer’s Bride showcased his ability to handle intimate, character-driven narratives. His commitment to authentic storytelling while incorporating cutting-edge visual effects has set new standards for Nollywood productions.

Kayode Kasum (₦504M)

Kasum’s Ajosepo, All’s Fair in Love, and What About Us demonstrates his mastery of the romantic drama genre. Each film explores facets of modern relationships against vibrant Lagos backdrops. Ajosepo particularly stands out for its narrative structure and compelling exploration of class differences in contemporary Nigerian society. 

Odunlade Adekola (₦455M)

The transition from acclaimed actor to successful director has been seamless for Adekola. His work on Beast of Two Worlds: Ajakaju brought a performer’s sensitivity to the fantasy genre, while Lakatabu showcased his understanding of dramatic pacing. His experience in front of the camera translates into a unique ability to guide actors through complex emotional scenes, resulting in memorable performances that have resonated with audiences.

Adeoluwa Owu (₦409M)

Owu’s romantic dramas Queen Lateefah and When Love Strikes brought him a unique audience. Queen Lateefah particularly stands out for its period setting and exploration of female empowerment themes, while When Love Strikes brings a fresh perspective to contemporary romance. His attention to production design and costume detail has created visually stunning films that transport audiences while maintaining emotional authenticity.

Toka Mcbaror (₦185M)

The Waiter represents Mcbaror’s skill at crafting suspense within seemingly ordinary situations. The film’s clever use of location and timing creates tension while exploring class dynamics in modern Nigeria. His direction brought out the psychological complexity of the characters while maintaining audience engagement throughout.

Jack Opukeme (₦167M)

Co-directing Farmer’s Bride, Opukeme brought a documentary-like authenticity to the rural drama. His careful attention to cultural details and traditional practices enriched the narrative while making it accessible to urban audiences. The film’s stunning cinematography of Nigerian landscapes adds another layer to its compelling story.

Bolanle Austen-Peters (₦157M)

Funmilayo Ransome Kuti represents Austen-Peters’ continued excellence in bringing historical narratives to life. Her theater background influences the film’s powerful dramatic moments, while her cinematic vision creates an immersive historical experience. The biopic’s success proves audiences’ appetite for thoughtfully crafted historical dramas.

Biodun Stephen (₦136M)

Muri & Ko showcases Stephen’s talent for finding humor and heart in everyday situations. The film’s exploration of entrepreneurship in Lagos resonated with audiences while providing genuine laughs. Her direction balances comedy with touching moments of human connection.

Omoni Oboli (₦127M)

Wives on Strike: The Uprising continues Oboli’s tradition of combining entertainment with social commentary. The film tackles serious issues while maintaining its comedic edge, demonstrating her skill at handling tone. Her understanding of both acting and directing brings depth to the ensemble performances.