Nigeria’s box office has posted impressive gains in the first quarter of 2025, generating N3.48 billion in revenue between January 1 and March 31. The figure represents a 54.7 percent increase compared to the N2.25 billion recorded during the same period in 2024, underscoring the continued resurgence of the country’s cinema industry.
Compared to the first quarter of 2023, when box office revenue stood at N1.5 billion, this year’s performance marks a remarkable 132 percent leap—clear evidence of the sector’s strong year-on-year growth and increasing audience appetite for cinematic experiences.
The upward trajectory, driven largely by the dominance of local content and a solid slate of international titles, reflects a significant recovery for the exhibition industry following earlier economic and operational disruptions. Analysts say the consistent rise in both revenue and admissions points to renewed confidence among filmgoers.
According to data from the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) shared with Nairametrics, total cinema admissions in Q1 2025 reached 661,801—up 10.9 percent from 596,609 recorded in the same quarter of 2024. When compared to 620,477 admissions in Q1 2023, this year’s figure represents a 6.7 percent increase, affirming a steady and encouraging upward trend in foot traffic to cinemas.
CEAN noted that the performance was boosted by a balanced mix of local and international releases. “What we are seeing is a clear pattern of audience engagement driven by strong storytelling, strategic release windows, and the growing appeal of Nigerian productions,” the association stated.
While Hollywood made a strong showing, Nigerian filmmakers once again proved dominant. Funke Akindele maintained her box office momentum from Q1 2024—when A Tribe Called Judah led the charts—and remained a prominent force in early 2025. The new quarter also saw the emergence of actor Timini Egbuson as a breakout box office draw, joining the ranks of established stars like Toyin Abraham and signaling a further broadening of Nollywood’s appeal.
The standout title of the quarter was Disney’s highly anticipated prequel, Mufasa: The Lion King, which grossed an impressive N618.2 million to top the charts. The film’s strong performance contributed significantly to the overall Q1 revenue figures and underscored the continued relevance of international blockbusters in the Nigerian market.
With over 100 cinemas operating across the country, Nigeria remains the dominant force in West Africa’s box office landscape. Early signs suggest that the momentum will continue into the second quarter. Although official April data is yet to be released, projections are strong. The locally produced film Sinner is reportedly on track to cross the N500 million mark, fueled by high ticket sales and sustained audience turnout.
All indicators suggest that 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Nigeria’s cinema industry, with local content playing a vital role in sustaining box office growth and elevating the country’s cultural footprint.