For the first time in its history, the Nigerian box office has achieved a landmark milestone, earning a staggering N1.02 billion between December 20 and December 26, 2024. This feat underscores Nigeria’s emergence as a growing force in global cinema.
December 26, 2024, was the highlight of the week, with cinemas nationwide recording an unprecedented N256.4 million in ticket sales, the highest single-day earnings in Nigerian cinema history. This shatters the previous record of N89.8 million, demonstrating the public’s increasing enthusiasm for festive entertainment.
The 2024 Christmas week eclipses box office performances from previous years: 2018: N368.4 million; 2019: N316.2 million; 2020: N302.4 million; 2021: N502.9 million; 2022: N526.7 million; and 2023: N804.3 million
This dramatic growth highlights the rising influence of Nollywood and international films in the Nigerian market, with strategic blockbuster releases during the festive period driving audience engagement.
Beyond the financial success, this achievement reflects the evolution of Nigeria’s film industry, which has increasingly gained global recognition. The record-breaking earnings signal a promising future for the industry, both locally and internationally.
Ope Ajayi, President of the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN), previously projected an annual growth rate of 40-45% for the industry. Ajayi estimates that box office revenues could reach N45 billion within four years, potentially hitting N50 billion with continued investment in high-quality productions and the expansion of cinema facilities nationwide.
Ajayi also noted that box office revenue is just one component of the industry’s overall income, as cinemas generate significant revenue from concessions, sponsorships, and other streams.
With its record-breaking 2024 performance, the Nigerian box office has set the stage for even greater achievements in 2025, inspiring filmmakers to pursue ambitious projects and audiences to continue supporting homegrown and international titles.
