Wumi Toriola’s Queen Lateefah Tops 2024’s Highest-Grossing Movies List
2024 has been an exceptional year for cinema, with captivating movies and remarkable performances lighting up the big screen month after month. Below, we highlight the top 10 highest-grossing Nigerian movies of the year so far, reflecting the incredible journey of Nollywood as it continues to push boundaries in storytelling, production, and box office success. Known for its rich cultural narratives and vibrant characters, the Nigerian film industry has gained international acclaim for its unique storytelling approach and innovative cinematic techniques.
In 2023, filmmaker Funke Akindele achieved historic success with A Tribe Called Judah, which grossed over ₦1.4 billion, marking it as last year’s highest-grossing Nigerian film. Based on data from the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN), here’s a breakdown of the highest-grossing movies of 2024.
10. Farmer’s Bride (₦138 million)
Set in 1980s Ibadan, Farmer’s Bride tells the story of Odun, a wealthy, reclusive farmer who finds companionship in his young wife, Funmi. But challenges emerge when Funmi, unhappy in her new life, enters a forbidden relationship with Odun’s nephew. This affair spirals into a dark tale of love, betrayal, and supernatural consequences. Released on September 27, 2024, the movie stars Tobi Bakre, Gbubemi Ejeye, Femi Branch, Mercy Aigbe, and others. As it continues to run in cinemas, it has amassed ₦138 million.
9. What About Us (₦103.7 million)
Premiered on June 12, What About Us earned ₦24.6 million in its first three days and later became the top weekend earner in mid-July. Directed by Kayode Kasum and produced by Emmanuel Iren, this drama follows a couple whose strained relationship is disrupted when a new couple moves in next door, sparking a complicated dynamic. The cast includes Uzor Arukwe, Folu Storms, Kunle Remi, Teniola Aladese, and others, with the film reaching ₦103.7 million.
8. All’s Fair in Love (₦132 million)
Marking Deyemi Okanlawon’s debut as a producer, All’s Fair in Love grossed ₦7.6 million on its Valentine’s Day premiere. Directed by Kayode Kasum, this story of friendship and rivalry centers on two best friends and business partners who fall for the same woman, creating a tense love triangle. The film stars Timini Egbuson, Deyemi Okanlawon, Buhle Samuels, Ireti Doyle, and Lateef Adedimeji, reaching a total of ₦132 million.
7. Blacksmith: Alagbede (₦103.7 million)
This Yoruba-language romantic drama tells the story of a blacksmith and a schoolteacher in a charming blend of romance and humor. Directed by Usman Ogunlade and starring Femi Adebayo, Gabriel Afolayan, and Kehinde Bankole, Blacksmith has grossed ₦103.7 million.
6. Muri & Ko (₦136 million)
Directed by Biodun Stephen, Muri & Ko is a comedy-drama that reached over ₦80 million within its first three weeks in cinemas. The story revolves around a street hustler whose life takes an unexpected turn after he unknowingly steals a car with a child inside. Featuring Kunle Remi, Bisola Aiyeola, and Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori (Kiekie), it has grossed a total of ₦136 million.
5. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti (₦157 million)
This biopic by Bolanle Austen-Peters showcases the inspiring life of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a prominent Nigerian activist and mother of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti. Led by Kehinde Bankole and supported by stars like Joke Silva, the film has earned ₦157 million and garnered critical acclaim, including an AFRIFF award for Best Movie.
4. Lakatabu (₦202.2 million)
Odunlade Adekola’s crime thriller Lakatabu dominated the July box office, with a gripping story about a criminal who faces retribution after kidnapping his enemy’s daughter. Its total earnings of ₦202.2 million make it one of the year’s most successful indigenous films.
3. Ajakaju: Beasts of Two Worlds (₦252.8 million)
Eniola Ajao’s first cinematic production, Ajakaju grossed ₦100 million in just five days. This Yoruba epic, directed by Odunlade Adekola, tells the story of a king’s desperate search for an heir, earning praise for its compelling plot. The film stars Eniola Ajao, Odunlade Adekola, Sola Sobowale, and others, reaching ₦252.8 million.
2. Ajosepo (₦257.2 million)
Ajosepo, directed by Kayode Kasum, ranks second on this list with a total of ₦257.2 million. This comedy-drama about a couple’s chaotic wedding preparations, strained by secrets and family conflicts, features a star-studded cast, including Timini Egbuson, Tomike Adeoye, and Bisola Ayieola.
At the top of the list, Queen Lateefah, produced by Wumi Toriola, continues to attract viewers across Nigeria. This drama, directed by Adeoluwa Owu, follows Lateefah Adeleke, a woman hiding her true background behind a facade of sophistication. Starring Kunle Remi, Femi Adebayo, Nancy Isime, and more, the film has reached a remarkable ₦269.5 million.
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