A Nollywood film has smashed box office records, becoming the first Nigerian movie to earn 1 billion naira ($1.1 million; £900,000) in domestic theaters.
A tribe called Judah achieved the historic feat in just three weeks. Its creator, Nigerian actor, director, and producer Funke Akindele, has thanked her fans for the milestone.
A Tribe Called Judah becomes highest-earning Nigerian movie
“Thank you, Lord! Thank you, Nigeria! Thank you, Ghana!” she posted on Instagram, garnering thousands of congratulations.
The record cements Akindele, 46, as Nollywood’s highest-grossing director.
A Tribe Called Judah is set to eclipse Hollywood hits in Nigerian theater earnings, including the acclaimed superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, which previously held the record as the top-grossing film in the country.
“This achievement isn’t just about numbers; it’s a testament to the power of storytelling, cultural pride, and the unyielding spirit of Nollywood,” the film’s distributor, FilmOne Entertainment, said on Instagram.
It has hailed the film as a “cultural gem.”.
The company also praised Akindele, saying her commitment to storytelling has “etched a significant chapter in the vibrant tapestry of Nigerian cinema.”.
A Tribe Called Judah has received rave reviews from both critics and fans and is basking in high ratings on movie review platforms.
The film, which portrays a scheme to rob a mall by a single mother and her five sons battling financial hardship, was inspired by Akindele’s late mother, whom she also dedicated the film to.
