Federal Government Commends Funke Akindele for Historic ₦2 Billion Box Office Milestone
The Federal Government has lauded Nollywood star and director Funke Akindele following the unprecedented box office success of her newest film, Behind the Scenes.
In a congratulatory message shared via its official X handle on Monday, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) hailed the achievement as a significant milestone for Nigeria’s creative sector and a clear indicator of the international appeal of Nigerian cinema. The agency highlighted that Behind the Scenes has officially made history as the first Nollywood production to surpass the ₦2 billion milestone, with domestic earnings currently sitting at ₦2.1 billion.
The film’s success extended beyond Nigerian borders, demonstrating notable international traction. According to the NOA, the movie earned $111,256 in Canada and a further $190,249 across the broader North American market.
The NOA celebrated the film’s widespread appeal, noting that from domestic screens in Lagos and Abuja to international theaters, the production captivated audiences everywhere. This success further solidifies Funke Akindele’s legacy as she becomes the first filmmaker to dominate the African box office at the number-one spot for three years in a row.
According to the agency, the triumph of Behind the Scenes signals a new era for Nollywood, showcasing its growing global influence and the universal demand for Nigerian stories. This milestone is being celebrated as a major win for the nation’s cultural and creative economy.
The government’s praise follows the film’s massive 2025 debut, which has consistently led the market both at home and abroad. It was previously confirmed on January 12 that the movie made history as the very first Nollywood title to eclipse the ₦2 billion mark, cementing Akindele’s status as a pioneer in African cinema.
