Nollywood is no stranger to delivering hits, but Funke Akindele has taken things up a notch with her latest masterpiece, Everybody Loves Jenifa. The film has stormed the West African box office, raking in an eye-watering N1 billion in just 19 days. Yes, you read that right—one billion naira. It’s as though every Nigerian and their neighbour decided to grab a ticket. With 201,604 admissions already recorded, this film isn’t just breaking records; it’s rewriting the Nollywood playbook.
For a movie to scoop up 40% of the December box office revenue is no small feat. The film’s total earnings of N1,034,091,220 stand as a testament to Funke Akindele’s ability to capture hearts, make audiences laugh, and keep them coming back for more.
This milestone didn’t just happen by chance; it’s the result of hard work, a talented team, and an unwavering connection to her audience. Fans are still buzzing, and the tickets are flying off counters faster than freshly baked puff-puff at a Lagos street corner.
The success story doesn’t stop at home. Everybody Loves Jenifa has taken its magic abroad, with Funke’s comedic and emotional genius resonating across the globe. Just eight days into its international run, the film has grossed $194,560 (roughly N300 million) in countries like the UK, US, and Canada. Packed theatres in London and sold-out screenings in New York show that the world isn’t just watching Nollywood—they’re loving it.
The international appeal of Funke Akindele’s storytelling cannot be overstated. She has proven time and again that she’s not just a local treasure but a global phenomenon. Her previous blockbuster, A Tribe Called Judah, holds the title of Nollywood’s highest-grossing film, and with Everybody Loves Jenifa, she’s inching closer to challenging that record. Let’s be honest—Funke has her crown firmly in place, and it looks like she’s added diamonds to it.
Her excitement was evident as she took to social media to thank her fans. With a heartfelt tweet, “GOD DID!!! Thank you Nigeria and Ghana!!! Let’s keep spreading the news about #eljthemovie showing in all cinemas nationwide!! Also showing in the UK!! US!!” she reminded us all why she’s loved. Her words reflected a wave of appreciation not just for the revenue but for the global embrace of her work.
This box office triumph is part of a broader Nollywood renaissance. As of 2024, the Nigerian film industry has dominated the West African market with over 50% market share. The industry is on track to close the year with a staggering N12 billion in revenue, and the bulk of that success is credited to homegrown talents like Funke Akindele. Her ability to blend humour, drama, and social commentary is not just a gift; it’s a superpower that has redefined what Nollywood can achieve.
But beyond the numbers and accolades, Everybody Loves Jenifa is a cultural phenomenon. It’s not just a movie—it’s an experience. Audiences have laughed, cried, and cheered, all while being reminded of why Nollywood holds a special place in their hearts. The film’s relatable themes, unforgettable characters, and high-energy scenes have set it apart. And let’s not forget that Funke’s portrayal of Jenifa has become iconic, cementing her as one of Nollywood’s brightest stars.
The milestones achieved by Everybody Loves Jenifa aren’t just about box office dominance—they’re about breaking barriers. Nollywood has been pushing its boundaries for years, and with films like this, it’s clear the industry is ready to take its place on the global stage. It’s not just a Nigerian story anymore; it’s a story for the world to see and celebrate.
As fans continue to flock to cinemas, one thing is certain: Funke Akindele has created something that transcends entertainment. It’s a reminder that laughter, drama, and great storytelling have no borders. The film is poised to achieve even more, and as we eagerly watch its journey, we can’t help but feel proud. Nollywood is winning, and Funke Akindele is leading the charge with a big smile and a billion reasons to celebrate.
For now, we sit back, grab some popcorn, and watch as Everybody Loves Jenifa continues its incredible run. Funke’s magic touch has once again proven that when it comes to delivering top-notch entertainment, she’s in a league of her own. So here’s to more laughs, more records, and more reasons to say, “Everybody loves Funke.”
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