In an extraordinary feat for the Nigerian film industry, Funke Akindele’s Everybody Loves Jenifa has officially claimed the title of the highest-grossing Nollywood film of all time, surpassing all expectations and setting a new benchmark at the box office with a staggering N1.466 billion.
This remarkable achievement further cements Akindele’s position as one of the most influential and successful figures in Nigerian cinema, a position she has maintained with unwavering consistency over the past several years. Known for her larger-than-life presence both in front of and behind the camera, Akindele continues to set records with each of her productions.
Upon hearing of the film’s success, Akindele, a multi-talented actress, producer, and director, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the audiences that have supported her journey. “This milestone is not just for me but for everyone who has believed in the power of storytelling. We have proven that Nollywood is not just an industry—it’s a force,” Akindele said in an exclusive interview. “I’m forever grateful for the love and support.”
This latest triumph is not her first. Akindele’s previous works have set the stage for this achievement. Her 2020 film, Omo Ghetto: The Saga, earned N636 million, followed by Battle on Buka Street in 2021, which grossed over N668 million. In 2023, her movie A Tribe Called Judah marked a historic moment by crossing the N1 billion mark—solidifying her reign at the top of Nollywood.
However, Everybody Loves Jenifa has outdone them all, surpassing even the N1.404 billion of A Tribe Called Judah, creating a new record for the industry. The film’s box office success is even more impressive considering the impact of the global pandemic on cinema attendance and the changing dynamics of movie consumption worldwide.
Jenifa Returns: A New Chapter for the Beloved Character
Everybody Loves Jenifa is a spin-off of Akindele’s iconic Jenifa franchise, a series that has captured the hearts of Nigerian and African audiences since 2008. The film explores the familiar world of Jenifa, but with a fresh twist. As the character faces new challenges and a rival threatening her charity work and popularity, the storyline engages with timely and relatable themes.
Patience Ozukwor, Jide Kosoko, and Falz are among the celebrated stars joining Akindele in this latest installment, bringing their acting prowess to the film and enhancing its appeal to both new viewers and long-time fans of the Jenifa series.
Film distributor Filmone Entertainment celebrated the record-breaking success in a social media post, saying, “RECORD BREAKER. Everybody Loves Jenifa has officially hit a historic N1.466 billion at the box office, making it the highest-grossing Nollywood film of all time! A massive THANK YOU to our incredible audiences in Nigeria and Ghana for making this dream a reality! Your support is everything. On to even greater heights! Still showing in cinemas near you—experience the magic on the big screen.”
The film’s rapid success at the box office, including a remarkable N1 billion in sales within just 19 days of its release, has sparked widespread excitement. Analysts attribute the film’s success to its compelling mix of humor, drama, and cultural relevance, which resonates deeply with audiences across Nigeria and the diaspora. The popularity of the Jenifa franchise also cannot be overstated, with Akindele’s character being one of the most beloved in Nigerian cinema.
The Power of Nollywood: Breaking Boundaries and Setting New Standards
The unprecedented box office success of Everybody Loves Jenifa represents a key moment in the evolution of Nollywood, Africa’s largest film industry. For years, Nigerian films have faced challenges, including inconsistent funding, piracy, and limited international exposure. However, in recent times, Nollywood has demonstrated remarkable growth, with films like Everybody Loves Jenifa showing that Nigerian movies can not only compete but thrive in a global market.
The success of Everybody Loves Jenifa also underscores the increasing importance of the Nigerian film industry in the broader entertainment landscape. Nollywood’s reach is expanding, with the film also making impressive strides internationally. The movie has sold over $100,000 in diaspora markets, including in the United States and the United Kingdom, highlighting its global appeal.
Nigerian film experts and critics are calling this a defining moment for Nollywood, a step closer to its goal of global recognition. “This achievement speaks to the immense talent within the industry and the dedication of Nigerian filmmakers, actors, and producers,” said film critic and historian, Chidi Okafor. “It is a sign that Nollywood is ready to play on the global stage with the best of them.”
In addition to its commercial success, Everybody Loves Jenifa has sparked discussions on the importance of diverse and authentic Nigerian stories in cinema. The film’s blend of comedy, drama, and social issues has sparked conversations about the power of storytelling to bridge divides, entertain, and inform. Akindele, a trailblazer in the industry, has once again proven that Nollywood’s potential is limitless.
As Everybody Loves Jenifa continues to break records and reach new audiences, Funke Akindele’s star continues to rise, and the Nollywood industry as a whole moves closer to international recognition. There is no doubt that this milestone will inspire future generations of filmmakers and actors to dream big and aim for the stars.
A Future Filled with Possibilities
With Everybody Loves Jenifa still running strong in cinemas, the future of the film looks even brighter. The industry’s growth, combined with Akindele’s drive and vision, suggests that Nollywood has only just begun its ascent to the global spotlight.
For now, though, the record-breaking success of Everybody Loves Jenifa serves as a powerful reminder of the potential of Nigerian cinema. Funke Akindele and her incredible team have delivered a historic achievement, one that will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
