Funke Akindele’s latest blockbuster, Everybody Loves Jenifa, has set a new benchmark in Nollywood, achieving over ₦1 billion in box office earnings within just 19 days of its release. With 201,604 tickets sold, the film now accounts for 40% of the total box office revenue in December, further cementing its place as one of the most successful films of the year in both Nigeria and Ghana.
A Historic Milestone for Nollywood
Everybody Loves Jenifa has achieved a historic feat by becoming the fastest film in West Africa to reach the billion-naira milestone. This remarkable achievement places it at the forefront of the year’s top box office hits, with total earnings of ₦1,034,091,220 as of the latest report. The success of the film marks a significant moment in the career of Funke Akindele, not only as an actress but also as a producer, showcasing her ability to produce content that resonates with diverse audiences.
Everybody Loves Jenifa Becomes a Regional Phenomenon
The film’s success has been nothing short of phenomenal, particularly in West Africa, where it has dominated the box office in Nigeria and Ghana. Its commercial triumph has been bolstered by strong ticket sales, making it a go-to film for moviegoers in the region. The overwhelming reception is a testament to Akindele’s unique talent for creating relatable, engaging content that speaks to a wide range of viewers.
The movie’s blend of humor, drama, and social commentary has struck a chord with audiences, positioning it as one of the standout films of the year. The film’s massive success proves that Nollywood continues to grow as a significant player on the global stage.
International Success: Everybody Loves Jenifa Earns ₦300 Million in Eight Days
The film’s success has not been confined to West Africa. Within just eight days of its international release on December 20, Everybody Loves Jenifa earned an impressive $194,560 (approximately ₦300 million) across major markets including the UK, US, and Canada. This highlights the growing global appeal of Nollywood films and demonstrates the film’s ability to attract international audiences.
Sold-out screenings in major cities like London and New York further illustrate the film’s widespread appeal. The international success of Everybody Loves Jenifa has added a new layer to Funke Akindele’s already stellar reputation, solidifying her position as one of Nollywood’s most influential figures.
Funke Akindele Expresses Gratitude to Fans
In celebration of the film’s monumental achievement, Funke Akindele took to social media to express her gratitude to her fans. Sharing a heartfelt message, she wrote: “GOD DID!!! Thank you, Jenifans, for supporting Everybody Loves Jenifa! This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without you. We’re thrilled about what’s ahead with this massive win. Keep watching in cinemas nationwide!”
https://twitter.com/funkeakindele/status/1873703673349406878
Her message was met with an outpouring of support from fans who have followed her career since the Jenifa franchise began. The long-running success of the character Jenifa, which has evolved into a beloved figure in Nigerian pop culture, has undoubtedly contributed to the film’s broad appeal.
A Bright Future for Nollywood
The success of Everybody Loves Jenifa marks a new chapter for Nollywood, reinforcing the industry’s ability to produce high-quality, commercially successful films that resonate both locally and internationally. Funke Akindele’s latest triumph is not just a personal achievement but also a significant moment for Nigerian cinema, highlighting the global reach and potential of Nollywood films.
