Eight Nollywood Filmmakers Who Surpassed N100 Million in 2024
1. Funke Akindele – A Tribe Called Judah
Funke Akindele has firmly established herself as one of Nollywood’s leading actresses and filmmakers. Starting her career in 1997 with the UN-backed sitcom *I Need to Know*, she has earned the title of the “Queen of Box Office.” Her latest hit, *A Tribe Called Judah*, made history as the first Nollywood film to exceed N1 billion at the box office, joining her previous successes, *Battle on Buka Street* (2022) and *Omo Ghetto: The Saga* (2020). Funke’s dual talents as both a star and producer significantly contribute to the industry’s growth.
2. Kayode Kasum – Ajosepo
Box Office Revenue: N256.6 million
Kayode Kasum has become a formidable force in Nollywood, with his film *Ajosepo* grossing over N256 million. This achievement brings his total box office revenue as a director to more than N1 billion. Renowned for preserving African cultural narratives, his diverse body of work includes popular titles like *Sugar Rush* and *This Lady Called Life*. His ability to tell stories in various languages makes him a standout filmmaker in Nigeria.
3. Eniola Ajao – B£ast of Two Worlds
Box Office Revenue: N252.8 million
Eniola Ajao has significantly impacted the Yoruba film scene, appearing in over 75 films before producing *B£ast of Two Worlds* in 2024. Directed by Odunlade Adekola and Adebayo Tijani, this captivating tale of a king who marries across worlds garnered over 72,532 cinema admissions since its premiere on March 25, solidifying Ajao’s reputation as a dynamic force in Nollywood.
4. Odunlade Adekola – Lakatabu
Box Office Revenue: N202.2 million
Odunlade Adekola, celebrated for his role in *Asiri Gomina Wa* (2003), is also a successful filmmaker and CEO of Odunlade Adekola Film Production. His 2024 film, *Lakatabu*, quickly reached over N200 million after its June 21 release, selling 55,048 tickets. Adekola’s ability to both act and produce highlights his versatility and dedication to the industry.
5. Toyin Abraham – Malaika
Box Office Revenue: N158 million
Since her debut in 2003, Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi has emerged as a leading actress and filmmaker in Nollywood. Her 2024 film, *Malaika*, earned over N158 million, showcasing her knack for steering commercially successful projects. Beyond film, her involvement in reality TV and her ambassadorship for Revolution Plus Properties reflect her wide-ranging influence.
6. Bolanle Austen-Peters – Funmilayo Ransom Kuti
Box Office Revenue: N157 million
Bolanle Austen-Peters is a pioneer in Nigerian theatre and film, recognized by CNN and Forbes Afrique. As the founder of BAP Productions and Terra Kulture, she has significantly influenced the arts in Lagos and beyond. Her film *Funmilayo Ransom Kuti* became the highest-grossing biopic in West Africa, earning N157 million and solidifying her legacy in Nollywood.
7. Deyemi Okanlawon – All’s Fair in Love
Box Office Revenue: N131 million
Deyemi Okanlawon, a prominent actor and entrepreneur, made his producing debut in 2024 with the romantic comedy *All’s Fair in Love*. Released on Valentine’s Day, the film quickly became Nigeria’s highest-grossing romantic comedy, raking in N131.34 million. Okanlawon’s strategic casting and innovative marketing played vital roles in the film’s success.
8. Naz Onuzo – Muri & Co
Box Office Revenue: N120.4 million
Naz Onuzo is a vital player in Nollywood’s creative and financial realms, leading Inkblot Productions to great success. As the Executive Producer of *Muri & Co*, released in June 2024, he helped the film exceed N100 million shortly after its debut. His background in private equity and roles at FilmOne Entertainment highlight his unique ability to blend creativity with business acumen.
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