Nollywood is a rapidly expanding industry worth over ₦6.4 billion today. It releases numerous groundbreaking movies each year. In 2023, Nollywood achieved a significant milestone by producing the highest-grossing Nigerian movie of all time, worth over 1 billion Naira. Before revealing the movie that secured the top spot on our list, let’s take a moment to acknowledge its origins.
A Brief History of Nollywood
It all began in the 19th century, more specifically, the 1960’s. This was the period Nigerians began to gain ownership of their film industries from the colonial masters when the first generation of filmmakers led by Ola Balogun, Hubert Ogunde, Jab Adu and co came to life, These filmmakers produced films that touched different controversial issues in the society.
Though Palaver is recognized as the first Nigerian film; it was written and directed by Britain filmmaker Blah and it depicted Nigerians in a veiled manner. It was around the early ’60s that Nigerian filmmakers decided they’d had enough of the British tainting their image and creating false and damaging stereotypes of them.
Some of the recognised movies by the first generation of filmmakers included: “Kongi’s Harvest” (early 70), “Bisi, daughter of the river” (1977) and “Jayisim” (1981).
But the movie that put Nigerian movies out there was “Living in Bandage”(1992/93), which is the first Nigerian home video to achieve blockbuster success, it consists of two parts. The movie was about a young man, Andy. He gets involved with a cult to solve his financial problems. But eventually, he soon finds out that getting involved with rituals leads to sacrifices he never imagined. He becomes entangled in deceit, betrayal, and spiritual forces. The movie explores themes of greed, morality, and the reaping of what you saw.
Back to business, now that we’ve gotten an insight into the baby Nollywood, let’s talk about how it has grown with the top 20 highest-grossing movies in Nigeria now.
1. A Tribe Called Judah.
This is the highest-grossing movie in Nigeria worth over 1.4 billion Naira. Written, directed and produced by Funke Akindele, it was released in December 2023.
Plot
A Tribe Called Judah is about Jedidah Judah, a single mother of five boys all from different fathers and tribes. Two of her sons; Emeka and Adamu are thriving more and can cater for their mother. While her other three kids; Pere, Shina, and Ejiro are troublemakers, but Jedidah’s love for her children is equal and unimaginable.
But when Jedidah falls sick with kidney disease, requiring expensive treatment, their whole life takes an unexpected turn. The brothers are concerned about making a risky decision to rob a bank to save their mother. But things don’t go as planned for them as they come head to head with other people set to steal the same money they’ve got their eyes set on.
2. Battle on Buka Street.
This 2022 movie takes the second spot among the highest-grossing movies in Nigeria. The movie is also directed by Funke Akindele with Tobi Makinde.
Plot
Yejide runs a buka with assistance from her mother, Asake, and her two daughters. But when a new business comes to town tables are turned. Yejide’s step-sister and lifetime rival Awele, takes a shop next to hers igniting a bitter competition rooted in their mothers’ rivalry.
Things get messy fast when Awele, due to her shop not getting any customers, results in sabotaging her Yajide’s business. This sets off a cycle of payback, with both sides resorting to underhanded tactics and deceit.
3. Omo Ghetto: The Sage.
Another Funke Akindele movie takes the third spot on the list. Released in 2020 with the current worth of ₦636.1 million.
Plot
‘Omo Ghetto: The Saga’ is a sequel to the original ‘Omo Ghetto’ released in 2010. It’s about twin sisters, Lefty and Ayomide, who were separated during childhood and are now reunited as adults.
The sequel focuses on the struggles of Lefty and her relationship with her adoptive mother. The ghetto plays a big role in her life as it’s where she developed who she is. As for her sister, Ayomide lives a life contrary to that of Lefty, she’s more out together and has a structured life.
The cast includes Tina Mba, Femi Jacob, Deyemi Okanlawon, Timini Egbuson, Zubby Micheal, Alex Ekubo, Mercy Aigbe, Akah Nnani, and Nancy Isime, the film also sees the return of Funke Akindele-Bello, Adebayo Salami, Eniola Badmus, and Bimbo Thomas.
4. The Wedding Party 2.
Released a year after the first and the fifth on the list, “The Wedding Party 2: Destination Dubai” is worth ₦500 million.
Plot.
This sequel continues the story of Dunni and Dozie’s wedding journey, the couple’s love is put to the test as they navigate the challenges of blending their families, cultural clashes, and unexpected twists.
But the main plot centres around Dunni’s brother, Nonso and his ‘romance’ with Deirdre, one of Dozie’s bridesmaids. Nonso accidentally proposes to Deirdre leading to an unexpected and for some, unwanted wedding in Dubai.
5. The Wedding Party.
This 2016 film directed by Kemi Adetiba is worth ₦453 million.
Plot.
This story follows Dunni and Dozie on their wedding day. The drama never seems to end on their special day as tension from each side of the family (due to class differences) creates one drama after another. As the day advances, unforeseen circumstances lead to a string of disclosures and reconciliations, leading to a heartfelt reunion between Dunni and Dozie at the wedding party.
The couple had to tackle so many obstacles before finally tying the knot.
6. Chief Daddy.
Directed by Niyi Akinmolayan and released in 2018, this comedy comes in as the sixth highest-grossing Nigerian movie with ₦387.5 million to its name.
Plot.
This movie revolves around the life and death of Chief Beecroft and his large chaotic family. After the Chief’s death, his family and household staff start to fight over their share of his fortune.
The film follows the humorous and dramatic events that unfold as the family members and associates come to terms with Chief Daddy’s will, which demonstrates surprising heirs and prompts various plans to claim his money.
7. Brotherhood.
With the inclusion of Tobi Bakre and Falz, how do you expect the movie to not make headlines? It bags ₦328 million making it the seventh highest grossing Nigerian movie.
Plot.
When twin brothers Wale and Akin were young, they witnessed the death of their parents. Growing up, brothers find themselves on opposite sides of the law as Wale joins the Police SWAT team while Akin becomes a criminal.
Upon his release from prison, Akin joins the notorious ‘Ojuju Boys’ and conducts a plan to help them rob bullion vans and banks, the operation is successful and they crave more. The operation leads to a lot of bloodshed and tension among the brothers.
8. King of Thieves.
This captivating movie was released in 2022 and is now worth ₦320 million.
Plot.
The story of Ajeromi is a thriving kingdom that flourishes with peace and abundance. But the peace is shattered when Agesinkole, a fearsome bandit and terrorist, arrives.
In response, the people of Ajeromi band together, combining their resources and talents to combat the threat posed by Agesinkole.
9. Malaika.
This heartwarming drama melts its way to being the ninth highest-grossing Nigerian movie with ₦302 million.
Plot.
The drama revolves around the Njoku family. It focuses on Mr and Mrs Njoku’s challenges. Adetutu Njoku struggles with infidelity, causing agitation within the family.
When Adetutu’s husband travels abroad, Adetutu relies on the help and support of her friends, leading her to a transformative encounter with an Ifa priest.
When the encounter reveals that her anger issues resulted in her inability to birth a child, Adetutu takes the initiative to change her ways, embarking on a self-discovery journey.
10. Suga Rush
This 2019 crime action comedy directed by Kayode Kasum is the tenth highest-grossing Nigerian movie right now.
Plot.
Three sisters; Bola, Susie and Sola, stumble upon $800,000 in the home of Chief Douglas, leading to a spending spree until mafias and EFCC come for them. But unknown to the sisters, Sola’s boyfriend, Andy, has already stolen the money.
But tragedy befalls the girls again as Andy dies and the money is lost again. Gina, head of the mafias, forces the sisters to steal from her husband, “The White Lion” Anikulapo.
11. Ijakumo.
A 2022 thriller produced by and starring Toyin Abraham sits at the eleventh spot on the list with ₦278 million.
Plot.
“Ijakumo: The Born Again Stripper” is about Asabi the daughter of a strong traditionalist out to take revenge on her ex-lover. Jide betrayed Asabi in the past and left her in a life-threatening situation.
He is now a respected pastor in Lagos, but his reputation won’t last much longer, Asabi is determined to expose him for the person he truly is. To achieve her goal, she enlists the help of a stripper.
12. Christmas in Miami.
Released in 2021 and directed by Robert Peters, this movie is the twelfth highest-grossing Nigerian movie.
Plot.
The Dafe family are to represent Nigeria at the intercontinental Christmas Fiesta in Miami, U.S. The event brings together six families from six countries across five continents, on an island in Miami.
Being Nigerians, they arrive late, setting the tone for a chaotic experience for everyone.
13. King of Boys.
Written and directed by Kemi Adetiba, the name is honestly such a vibe. Worth ₦245 million as the thirtieth highest-grossing Nigerian movie.
Plot.
Alhaja Eniola Salami, a successful businesswoman and philanthropist considering a political career becomes entangled in a dangerous struggle for dominance.
She is forced to be extremely guarded, questioning those around her and trying to find whom she can rely on. Her journey is not an easy one as she strives towards victory in the world of politics.
14. Merry Men.
Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons, is a 2018 action comedy movie. It’s written by Anthony Joseph, and directed by Toka Mcbaror.
Plot.
The story follows four rich players, Ayo, Naz, Amaju and Remi. They sleep with powerful, attractive women, and give Robin Hood vibes by stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. Their mission is to mess with the rich and powerful (even though they are part of that group).
The Merry Men face an obstacle, they are faced with a corrupt politician who wants to tear down Garki village to build a shopping complex. Would their charms be enough to save the day?
15. Aki and Paw Paw.
The title gives nostalgia to most. Released 2021. ₦234 million.
Plot.
Aki and Pawpaw move to Lagos to stay with their uncle Uche. The brothers bring trouble to their new home while working at a bar owned by Uche’s neighbour.
Meanwhile, social media influencer Pankshan’s mistreatment of his assistant, Samantha is the assistant of an abusive media influencer who crosses paths with Aki and Pawpaw and sees an opportunity to succeed on her own, even if it means taking advantage of Aki and Pawpaw.
During this process, Aki and PawPaw are thrown into fame and a completely different world from what they know. Would this brotherhood be able to withstand their drastic change?
16. Merry Men 2.
Guess everyone loved watching four attractive men be bad boys cause we were gifted with a sequel in 2019. Taking the sixteenth spot on the highest-grossing Nigerian movies list with ₦234 million.
Plot
Now the four Yoruba demons have dropped the Robin Hood lifestyles to focus on their businesses. Some even found love (how surprising).
But how can there be a movie if everything is going well? The wife of Naz and the sister of Ayo get kidnapped during a trip with the four men. So now the men have to go back to their old ways to save the women.
17. Ada Omo Daddy.
₦218 million still ain’t no small money making this movie still one of the highest-grossing Nigerian movies.
Plot
It all begins with a mother, Ireti, running away from a disruption in the community with her daughter, Pero. Then suddenly a gunshot can be heard setting the stage for the story to begin.
Some time has passed and Pero is now navigating her life with a company to run and beginning a new stage in her life with her fiance, everything seems to be going well until her world is turned around by her sister’s social media revelations.
18. Your Excellency.
Politics is a sore topic right now but this comedy might get you some laughs out of it. Directed by Funke Akindele and released in 2019. This movie is now bagging ₦186.3 million.
Plot
Chief Olalekan Ajadi, is an odd businessman that suddenly plans to run for Governor, despite his lack of political experience and questionable reputation.
But he gains acknowledgement due to his personality and promises, but as everything unfolds he begins to face some challenges including competitors and his past creeping up to catch him. 
19. A Trip to Jamaica.
There are a lot of trips on this list, on the second to last spot with ₦180 million.
Plot
A newly engaged couple, Akpos and Bola, plan a trip to the United States to celebrate. They are welcomed by Abigail, Bola’s sister, and her husband, Michael Rice. But Bola, despite the glamorous life her sister seems to live, could sense there was something wrong.
Later on, they go on an unexpected trip to Jamaica using Michael’s private jet, where everyone but Bola gets kidnapped taking them all on a wild ride.
20. Prophetess
Last but not least, twentieth on the highest-grossing list. Grossing ₦178 million.
Plot
In a small rural town, a prophetess, Ajoke, gains immense fame when she predicts Arsenal’s victory in the UEFA Champions League and the winner of the Big Brother Naija.
People then start to place bets based on her prophecy about a local football club called ‘Wonder Boyz’, she claims they will defeat the current champions, ‘Gidi Boyz’. But of course, things don’t go as planned.
