In recent years, Nollywood has experienced an incredible transformation, breaking box office records and gaining global recognition. Thanks to high-quality productions, compelling storytelling, and the rise of digital streaming, Nigerian cinema is now a powerhouse in the entertainment world.
Some of the biggest hits have been led by top Nollywood actresses, drawing massive audiences to both cinemas and online platforms. Let’s take a look at some of the most-watched films that captivated fans and cemented these actresses as icons in the industry.
1. Everybody Loves Jenifa – Funke Akindele
Released in 2024, Everybody Loves Jenifa took the Nigerian box office by storm. Funke Akindele once again showcased her comedic genius, delivering a performance that left audiences roaring with laughter.
With packed cinemas and overwhelming fan engagement, the film became the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of the year. Its success reaffirmed Akindele’s position as one of Nollywood’s most bankable stars, proving that her signature blend of humor and storytelling never fails to entertain.
2. Thin Line – Mercy Aigbe
When Thin Line premiered on December 13, 2024, it was clear that Mercy Aigbe had created something special. Moving away from traditional Nollywood tropes, the film introduced a fresh, unpredictable storyline that kept viewers glued to their seats.
Audiences embraced the film’s uniqueness, and its box office performance reflected their enthusiasm. Thin Line not only solidified Aigbe’s reputation as a trailblazing filmmaker, but also set a new benchmark for storytelling in Nollywood.
3. Alakada Bad and Boujee – Toyin Abraham
Toyin Abraham continued her winning streak with Alakada Bad and Boujee, which hit cinemas on December 20, 2024. The movie made an explosive debut, raking in ₦134 million in its first week alone.
As part of the fan-favorite Alakada series, this installment blended comedy, drama, and a relatable storyline, keeping audiences entertained. The film also helped Abraham expand her already massive fanbase, proving that star power and a well-crafted movie are a recipe for success.
4. Love in Every World – Omoni Oboli
While many Nollywood films rely on cinema releases, Omoni Oboli’s Love in Every World took a different route, debuting on YouTube. Within a week of its release, it had already surpassed one million views, setting a new standard for online Nollywood films.
The movie’s popularity sparked viral trends, with memes and TikTok challenges flooding social media. Its success proved that Nollywood is evolving beyond traditional distribution, using digital platforms to reach global audiences.
5. Labake Olododo – Iyabo Ojo
Premiering in cinemas on March 28, 2025, Labake Olododo became one of the most talked-about Nollywood movies of the year. Iyabo Ojo’s daughter, Priscilla Ojo, played a key role in the film’s marketing, leveraging Instagram to build massive anticipation.
Thanks to this strategic social media campaign, the movie drew large audiences and reinforced the importance of digital marketing in Nollywood’s cinema culture.
Nollywood’s Future: Bigger, Better, and Bolder
With stronger investments, cutting-edge storytelling, and improved production quality, Nollywood’s growth shows no signs of slowing down. Streaming giants like Netflix continue to expand their Nigerian film catalog, bringing local stories to global audiences.
As Nigerian filmmakers push creative boundaries, one thing is clear: Nollywood’s best days are still ahead.