Nigeria’s film industry, Nollywood, has reached a new milestone as cinema revenues for 2025 climbed to an unprecedented ₦12 billion, outperforming the previous year’s total and reaffirming the country’s growing appetite for locally produced films.
According to data released by the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN), the ₦12 billion figure represents a significant increase from the ₦9.8 billion recorded in 2024 marking a 22% year-on-year growth despite economic challenges and rising ticket prices.
Industry analysts attribute the surge to stronger marketing campaigns, improved cinema infrastructure, and a steady stream of blockbuster releases from both Nollywood and international studios. Major hits such as A Tribe Called Judah, Battle on Buka Street, and The Kujus Again drew massive crowds nationwide, with several titles breaking previous box office records within weeks of release.
Speaking on the impressive performance, CEAN Chairman, Opeyemi Ajayi, said the achievement underscores the resilience and global appeal of Nigerian cinema. “Despite inflation and reduced consumer spending, Nigerians continue to show strong support for local films. This reflects the industry’s growing quality and audience connection,” Ajayi said.
The report also highlights Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt as the top-performing cities in terms of ticket sales, while mid-tier markets such as Ibadan, Benin, and Enugu are recording steady growth due to new cinema openings and increased access to digital ticketing platforms.
Film producers and investors have hailed the development as a positive sign for the industry’s sustainability and international competitiveness. They believe the trend could attract more foreign collaborations, investments, and distribution opportunities.
As Nollywood continues to evolve, stakeholders are calling for greater government support in areas such as film funding, piracy control, and tax relief all of which could help the industry maintain its upward trajectory.
With more high-profile releases expected before year’s end, analysts project that Nigeria’s box office could cross the ₦13 billion mark by December, solidifying 2025 as the country’s most profitable cinema year yet.
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