Nigeria's cinema industry has kicked off 2025 with a resounding success, generating a substantial N3.48 billion in box office revenue during the first quarter, spanning from January 1st to March 31st. This impressive figure, as revealed by data from the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN), represents a significant 54.7% surge when compared to the N2.25 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2024.
The growth trajectory becomes even more pronounced when viewed against the figures from Q1 2023. The N3.48 billion in revenue for the first three months of 2025 demonstrates a remarkable 132% increase over the N1.5 billion generated in Q1 2023. This substantial year-on-year progress underscores the vibrant and expanding nature of the Nigerian film industry, fueled by compelling local productions and a growing enthusiasm for the cinematic experience among Nigerian audiences.
It's noteworthy that the Q1 2024 revenue of N2.25 billion itself marked a considerable 46% rise from the N1.5 billion achieved in Q1 2023. These consecutive periods of significant growth highlight a consistent upward trend in the Nigerian box office performance, indicating a sustained recovery and expansion within the exhibition sector following earlier disruptions. The figures clearly point to a burgeoning appetite for cinema outings across the nation.
This financial success is further validated by the increase in cinema admissions. In Q1 2025, Nigerian cinemas welcomed 661,801 moviegoers, a 10.9% increase from the 596,609 admissions recorded in Q1 2024. This rise in attendance reflects a strengthened audience engagement, driven by a captivating lineup of films that successfully drew more viewers into cinema halls nationwide. When compared to the 620,477 admissions in Q1 2023, the 2025 figure shows a steady 6.7% upward trend in cinema attendance over the past two years, solidifying the notion of a consistently expanding cinema-going culture in Nigeria.
Local Hits and International Blockbusters Drive Revenue
The impressive revenue figures for the first quarter of 2025 were propelled by a compelling mix of highly anticipated international blockbusters and the continued dominance of homegrown Nigerian cinema. Notably, Nigerian filmmakers maintained a strong presence at the box office, with established names and rising stars contributing significantly to the overall success.
Funke Akindele, a consistent powerhouse in Nollywood, continued her box office reign, building on the success of "A Tribe Called Judah" in Q1 2024 with further strong performances in the current quarter. However, Q1 2025 also witnessed the emergence of new leading figures, including Timini Egbuson, alongside the ever-popular producer and actress Toyin Abraham. This broadening of box office appeal signifies a healthy evolution within Nollywood, showcasing a diverse range of talent capable of drawing significant audiences.
Topping the list of highest-grossing films in Q1 2025 was Disney's eagerly awaited prequel, "Mufasa: The Lion King," which raked in an impressive N618.2 million, making it the highest-earning title of the quarter. Close behind was "Alakada: Bad and Boujee," the latest installment in the popular "Alakada" franchise, which generated a substantial N500.5 million. This continued success of the "Alakada" series underscores the strong audience connection and drawing power of well-crafted local comedies featuring star-studded casts.
Disney's "Moana 2" also delivered a strong performance, grossing N400 million, while Marvel's "Captain America: Brave New World" pulled in N396 million, reaffirming the enduring appeal of superhero franchises among Nigerian cinema enthusiasts. Other notable performers during the quarter included "Reel Love," a romantic drama that earned N332.8 million, and "Everybody Loves Jenifa," a carry-over hit from December 2024 that continued to attract significant viewership, further cementing Funke Akindele's influential position in the Nigerian box office landscape.
Promising Outlook for the Rest of 2025
The stellar performance in the first quarter of 2025 suggests a promising year ahead for the West African box office, with Nigeria playing a pivotal role, supported by its extensive network of over 100 cinemas nationwide. While official figures for April are yet to be released, early indications point towards a continued upward trend in box office revenue. Notably, the film "Sinner" is showing strong momentum and is projected to potentially reach the N500 million mark, fueled by robust audience turnout and ticket sales.
Furthermore, Iyabo Ojo's faith-based film, "Labake Olododo," has garnered significant attention and ticket sales, adding to the anticipation of what could be a record-breaking month for the Nigerian cinema industry. As the year progresses, the combination of highly anticipated international releases and the continued strength of local productions paints an optimistic picture for the Nigerian box office, suggesting a sustained period of growth and engagement for cinema lovers across the country.