The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has commended Nigerian actresses and filmmakers Funke Akindele and Toyin Abraham for their recent commercial successes at the box office, describing the achievements as milestones for Nollywood that reflect both creative excellence and the industry’s growing financial viability.
Funke Akindele’s latest production, Behind The Scene (BTS), has surpassed ₦2.4 billion in ticket sales since its release, ranking it among the highest-grossing films in Nollywood history. The NFVCB described the feat as a “landmark moment,” highlighting Akindele’s consistent dominance and sustained contribution to Nigerian cinema over the years.
In recognition of her accomplishments, the board announced plans to honour Akindele with a Box Office Queen Award. The ceremony is expected to feature prominent industry stakeholders, including the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, and will celebrate her enduring impact on Nollywood.
Toyin Abraham also received commendation from the NFVCB for her directorial debut, Oversabi Auntie, which has grossed over ₦1 billion nationwide. The board noted that Abraham’s achievement places her film among the top four highest-earning Nollywood titles, a rare feat for a first-time director and a testament to her versatility as both an actress and filmmaker.
Industry observers say the strong box office performances of BTS and Oversabi Auntie affirm the growing audience reach and commercial potential of Nollywood, even amid broader economic challenges. The success of these films demonstrates that locally produced stories with high production values continue to resonate with Nigerian and West African audiences.
Peers in the entertainment sector have echoed the NFVCB’s praise, publicly congratulating both Akindele and Abraham. Their achievements not only celebrate individual talent but also reinforce Nollywood’s expanding influence and its emerging status as a significant player in the global film market. Officials say the accomplishments reflect a broader trend in Nollywood, where high-quality productions are increasingly generating substantial revenue, creating opportunities for both creative innovation and economic growth within Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
