The Nigerian cinema industry has achieved significant growth in 2024, with box office revenue reaching N8.76 billion year-to-date, reflecting a 59% increase compared to the same period last year.
While ticket admissions have declined by 0.5%, higher revenue indicates increased average ticket prices and strong performance from high-grossing films.
One of the standout contributors to this surge is newcomer Disney’s Moana 2, which is on track for an opening weekend surpassing N100 million.
If achieved, this would set a new record for animated films in Nigeria, overtaking the N28.4 million debut of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse in 2023.
The film’s strong performance highlights the continued appeal of family-oriented international titles.
Nigerian productions continue to dominate the market, accounting for over half of 2024’s total box office revenue. Local films have maintained impressive momentum, with at least one title crossing N100 million in earnings each month.
Funke Akindele’s upcoming Everybody Loves Jenifa, set for release on December 13, is one of the most anticipated titles this year. Akindele’s films have been major contributors to the industry’s growth, with her releases in 2023 alone grossing over N1 billion. Other December releases include Toyin Abraham’s Alakada: Bad and Boujee, Seven Doors, Thin Line, and Christmas in Lagos.
December has become a key month for Nigerian cinema, a trend established by the success of The Wedding Party in 2016. That film held the record for the highest-grossing Nigerian film until it was surpassed by Omo Ghetto: The Saga in 2020. The tradition of releasing star-studded blockbusters during the holiday season has continued to drive audience engagement and boost revenues.
Despite a slight dip in admissions compared to the previous year, the Nigerian film industry has leveraged its ability to produce consistent hits, both domestically and internationally. With major titles scheduled for release in December, the industry is poised for a record-breaking conclusion to an already remarkable year.
Backstory
According to a presentation given by Moses Babatope, CEO of NILEgroup, the possibilities for a major turnaround for the industry.
Babatope alluded to 2004 when there was only one cinema in Nigeria; now, we have about 90 cinemas and 325 screens across Nigeria and Ghana. While this is modest growth, it’s still far from matching our population or output as a content-creating industry,” he explained.
Despite challenges such as foreign exchange pressures and rising costs, Babatope remains optimistic. “We hope to see attendance growth of 10-15% by year’s end. The resilience of cinemas in times of economic uncertainty is a clear indicator that there’s something fundamental about the Nigerian audience’s connection to the big screen.”
Comedian Bright Okpocha, popularly known as Basket Mouth ,has come under criticism by his tweeter followers and others on the social media platform for fixing a comedy concert in Hamburg, Germany on February 25 same day Nigeria Presidential and National Assembly Elections will hold
While some described the move as insensitive and patriotic, others faulted it as taking his jokes too far.
A Nigerian in diaspora tweeting under the name Obiologue @IsokoTolopia wrote
“My girls bought me a Baskemouth show ticket for the 19th Feb as my birthday gift. I told them I shan’t go. You know why? I can’t be laughing at jokes from a JERK.
I am vexed by people who see their country as a bout of a joke only but won’t lift a finger to help make it better”
@honillate tweeted: “Rest, you’re actually being inconsiderate of your Nigerian fans at this point. No be everything be comedy”
@Chima_Teey :”Selling tickets for a show on February 25th is selfish. No difference btwn you and those that selfishly sell their votes, and play footy on the streets on election day. Shameful!
#CollectYourPVC”
@DeCaptn: “Omoo see way back gutter guy wey God show mercy Don forget where his coming from. Like you don’t you have a responsibility to this country on the 25th Feb with your Huge fan base? Omo I’m shocked at what these gutters dey display these days o chia money oo”
In a trending tweet, Okpocha wrote via his verified handle @basket_mouth thanking Hamburg for the love as tickets were almost sold out
Joshua Okoria is a Lagos based multi-skilled journalist covering the maritime industry. His ICT and graphic design skills makes him a resourceful person in any modern newsroom. He read mass communication at the Olabisi Onabanjo University and has sharpened his knowledge in media practice from several other short courses.
Nigerian-born Becky Pring’ar Dakahap, an expert in English Literature and a lover of history has called on Africans to promote the culture, history and identity of the continent.
She made the call during the official launch of her book titled “Diversity N’ Complexity of the African Culture, History and Identity, at the Nigerian National Merit Award House, Abuja, graced by top government officials, family and friends.
The book was reviewed by Professor Victor Ukaogo, of the Department of History and International Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and assisted by Dr. Ahidjo Embugushiki of the Department of English Language at the University of Jos, Mr. Tunde Aina of the Cabinet Affairs Office and Mr Ako Abbah of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
The author stated that the book is a compendium of poems on Africas’ beautiful cultural diversity, embodying its vibrancy, as well as celebrating its unique and complex nature.
Front cover of the book.
She explained that it delved into topics that touches on everything from ancestry, heritage, spirituality and beliefs, love, relationship, resilience and strength as well as many other areas.
Becky, who hails from Mangu Local Government Area in Plateau State, lamented over what she described as “the total disregard for the history of the African people” while hoping for a better African society”.
She said that her inspirations comes from crafting evocative and thought-provoking verses, imbued with a keen sense of observation and a deep appreciation for the beauty of language.
On how she got into writing, the author disclosed that she was surrounded by creativity, which encouraged her to explore her artistic impulse at a young age, starting with poetry and experimenting with different forms of style until she found her own unique voice.
The writer noted that through years of practicing, studying and reading widely to refine her techniques, she also drew inspiration from the changing seasons, the ebb and flow of the tides, and the myriad creatures that inhabit the earth.
Becky Dakahap’s work is not limited to the natural world alone. She is equally adept at exploring the complexities of the human experience, delving into the depths of emotion and the intricate workings of the human psyche. Her poems are a reflection of the world around us, illuminating the beauty and pain of life in equal measure.
“Nigeria is considered a collectivist society. Individuals pursuing success are a commitment to the wellbeing, pride and prosperity of the family or tribe. We are therefore highly incentivised to avoid shame linked to failure or recklessness. Rather tellingly, even our national anthem includes a pledge to attain ‘great lofty heights’ and a stern reminder that ‘the labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain”.
On his part, Mr. Olayinka Olusola Michael explained that the drive to be educationally and professionally successful may also be linked to Nigeria’s well-known optimism.
“When your culture is preternaturally positive despite often brutal political, health and social conditions, optimism drives and inspires you to expect success in almost any circumstance”, he said.
Other government officials present at the launch are: Ayuba Birma, former Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, Officials of various Ministries, Departments and Agencies, Mr. Olaoluwaseyi Silvannus Kehinde Aiyeleso (OSKA), Ekiti State Holdings and other support from private organisation.
The African Music Library has announced the launch of Foster, an innovative music education programme aimed at empowering disadvantaged school children across Africa.
Foster seeks to bridge the gap in access to music education and provide a transformative platform for children to discover their musical talents, nurture their creativity, and develop important life skills.
Foster officially launched with its inaugural event at Akoka Primary School, Yaba, Lagos, on June 2, 2023.
The program chose Akoka Primary School as its first beneficiary, marking a significant milestone in its mission to impact children across Africa, one school at a time; with plans to expand its reach to more schools and communities in the coming months.
According to Jideofor Okoro, Project Director at African Music Library, Foster recognises the immense potential of music in enhancing children’s lives and believes that every child, regardless of their socioeconomic background, should have the opportunity to explore and develop their musical talents.
He explained that with a vision to create a future where all African children can access music education, Foster is committed to fostering creativity, self-expression and personal growth through music.
“The program will partner with local schools and community organizations to provide music education classes, workshops, and performance opportunities to children who otherwise may not have had access to such enriching experiences.
“This program will also collaborate with renowned musicians and educators to inspire and mentor the next generation of African music talents”.
The inaugural event at Akoka Primary School witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, and community members.
The programme’s carefully designed curriculum delivered by passionate and skilled music educators, captivated the students’ interest and showcased the joy and possibilities that music brings.
From interactive workshops to lively performances, the launch event created an inspiring and engaging musical environment, leaving a lasting impact on the students’ minds.
“We are thrilled to have kicked off the Foster program at Akoka Primary School, an institution that has shown unwavering commitment to the holistic development of its students”, said Anu Onasanya, the Project Coordinator for Foster.
“By starting our journey here, we hope to pave the way for a brighter future for these talented young individuals and empower them through the universal language of music”.
On her part, the headmistress of Akoka Primary School, Mrs Okeke said: “We are honored to be the first beneficiaries of the Foster Program. We firmly believe in the transformative power of music education, and this partnership with Josplay will provide our students with invaluable opportunities to explore and develop their musical talents.
“We are incredibly grateful for this initiative and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our students’ personal growth”.
According to Emmanuel Ogala, President of African Music Library “We are excited to embark on this journey with Foster and provide African children with the opportunity to discover and embrace their musical talents.
“Music has the ability to transcend boundaries and empower individuals. Through Foster, we hope to nurture the next generation of African musicians and leaders who will inspire positive change in their communities”.
The organisers called for support from individuals, businesses, and organisations who share the passion for music education and believe in its transformative power through volunteering, making financial contributions, donating instruments, and supporting fundraising events.
Foster is a music education programme dedicated to empowering disadvantaged school children across Africa. Through comprehensive music education classes, workshops, and performance opportunities, Foster aims to nurture creativity, develop important life skills, and unlock the potential of African children.
To learn more about Foster and how to get involved, visit www.africanmusiclibrary.org/foster
African Music Library is a non-profit organization focused on preserving and sharing deep knowledge of African music through research, community and technology.
It was all fun and funfair for kids and primary schools pupils, as well as parents and guests at the grand finale of the 2023 edition of Eko My Lagos Festival series hosted by Doyens School and its partners at the Lydia Halls Events Centre in Ojodu Berger, Lagos on Thursday, June 22, 2023.
Organisers of the event, an initiative of Doyens School, led by the Proprietor, Mrs. Vicky Omoniyi, who was flanked by her husband, Engr. Gbenga Omoniyi and Pastor Ados Mohmoh of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), said the event, which is being planned to hold every year, was aimed at building a solid socio-cultural, educational and language foundation of kids from ages two to 11.
She explained that the event was organised to inculcate the right values of culture, societal norms, survival strategies in Lagos, proficiency in Nigeria’s indigenous languages of Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa and other native mother tongues among the kids early in life.
“It is easier to influence children at the earlier stage of their lives. Foundation is very crucial to the development of children, especially in these days and time of Internet and technology, which facilitates the development of our children in ways we never imagined in the past.
“We embarked on this project because if we let the development lie low in the present circumstances, our children run the risk of losing their culture, language identity, societal norms, tradition, sense of history and all other positive attributes that hold us together as a people, either as Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa or any other ethnic nationality in the country.
“It is particularly worrisome in Lagos, which is a microcosm of the larger Nigerian society in which other ethnic nationalities congregate in their quest to eke out a better living due to the many advantages and opportunities that exist in Lagos. In all of the mix of activities, we cannot allow our children to be lost in the socio-economic, political, cultural, academic and financial activities that principally make Lagos what it is in the country.”
She maintained that in its quest to make the best out of the kids, is was important to inculcate the right values of understanding of Nigeria’s local languages, diligence, hard work, integrity, accountability and a mindset of success on them to create a better society, especially among the teens, who are the future leaders of the country.
The event, which featured dances, drama and cultural displays from Green Hall Schools, Ojodu, Upbeat International School, OPIC and Christozena School, Oregun, as well as recitations of the heroic exploits of Ikorodu, Badagry, Epe, Lagos Island and other parts of the state, was attended by Chairman, House Committee on Lands, Hon. (Prince) Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, who represented the Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, heads of schools across the state and representatives of the entertainment industry, among others.
Speaking, Kasunmu pledged the state government’s support for the Eko My Lagos project in its determination to ‘catch them young’ with a view to grooming responsible youths that would take over the mantle of leadership in the state and entire country in the near future.
A high point of the ceremony was the eulogy of Lagos and the kids’ presentation of past governors of Lagos and their achievements in office from 1957 to date including, among others, Mobolaji Johnson, Ndubuisi Kanu, Lateef Jakande, Buba Marwa, Raji Rasaki, Michael Otedola, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Raji Fashola, Akinwunmi Ambode and the incumbent governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
Omoniyi further stated that the project had met its aims and objectives as shown by the dances, recitations and cultural displays of the kids, who dazzled the audience with their deep understanding of the ways and attitudes of Lagos residents in all spheres of life, adding that new features will be added to make future Eko My Lagos events even more successful.
As part of efforts to improve the oratory skill among young people, Nigeria’s foremost public speaking institute, School of Eloquence has in the last six years been giving back to the society through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
The school, which is located at Osbourne Foreshore Phase 2, Ikoyi, Lagos, via its “Catching Them Young” Programme and Eloquence Cup Competition, has been spreading the gospel and importance of public speaking.
The School of Eloquence has taken it upon itself to groom the next generation of excellent orators, one government-owned secondary school at a time, by equipping them with the knowledge and skill of public speaking.
The initiative which started in 2017 has positively impacted the lives of hundreds of students in over 25 schools across Lagos, helping them hone their communication skills.
Victoria Island Senior School.
The Catching Them Young train which includes alumni of the School of Eloquence led by the Programme’s coordinator for Lagos, Joshua Mogbo, made its inaugural outing in 2017 to Ojota Senior Secondary School, September 18; Queens Mary School, Ogudu, October 14; Queens College Yaba, October, 18; Adeolu Senior Secondary School and Reservation Senior High School, Ajegunle on October 31.
The following year saw the team visit Ilupeju Senior Grammar School on January 18 and Community Senior High School, Wasimi, Maryland on March 1, 2018 to propagate the art of public speaking.
In 2019, it was the turn of Immaculate Senior Comprehensive High School; Community Senior High School, July 3; Ikeja Senior High School July 10; Army Cantonment Senior Secondary School Ikeja, Opebi Senior Grammar School, and Unity High School, Oshodi on the 26th of June.
A total of eight schools were recipients of the initiative in 2020. They include: Government Senior College, and Girls Senior High School, Iyana-Ipaja on February 13; Lagos Baptist Senior College, Agege, and Sango Senior Secondary School Dairy-Farm Agege on March 4.
Others are: Lagos Baptist Senior Secondary School Agege and State Senior High School Oyewole Agege, February 18; Abibat Mogaji Millenium Senior Secondary School, Dopemu Agege and Dairy Farm Senior Secondary School Dairy-farm Agege, on February 27.
The Registrar, School of Eloquence, Mrs. Patience Essien (right front row) with students
Falomo Senior High School.
However, due to the restriction of movement and human contact following the outbreak of COVID-19, the programme did not hold in 2021 and 2022.
For this year, the Educational District 3, Ikoyi, approved the five following schools for the Catching Them Young Programme: Girls Secondary Senior School, Ikoyi, May 10; Falomo Senior High School and Ireti Senior Grammar School, Ikoyi, May 17; Kuramo Senior College, Victoria Island, May 24, as well as Victoria Island Senior Secondary School on May 31, 2023.
On the other hand, the Eloquence Cup which is the second phase of the Catching Them Young Programme, provides a platform for the students to showcase what they have learnt about public speaking during the practical sessions, where the students are empowered to speak effectively and handle nervousness through preparation and exposure to other useful techniques.
Iretiola Senior High School.
The Registrar, School of Eloquence, Mrs. Patience Essien disclosed that the Eloquence Cup was initiated by the school’s founder and Dean, Ubong Essien.
She explained that the Dean, who is also West/Central Africa’s only Certified Speaking Professional, believes that teaching the younger generation communication skills will help improve society.
According to her, “the Eloquence Cup is a public speaking challenge between students in government-owned secondary schools. The students are assigned a topic of general interest upon which they are to speak before an audience which includes students and teachers of competing schools, alums from the School of Eloquence, the School’s Board members and other members of the society.
School of Eloquence Registrar gifting students the “Speak with Power” pocket booklet during one of the outreach sessions.
“The winning school takes the trophy we call The Eloquence Cup. We also have prizes for the participating individual students that excel in the competition, from laptops to tablets and cash. The maiden edition was won by Kings College in 2017.
“Our students and clients are business owners, corporate executives, government functionaries, directors and high-profile individuals who are very good at what they do but find it challenging to speak in public. So, they come to the School of Eloquence to learn the skill later in life.
“The Dean thought that it must be essential if such highly placed people were still coming back to learn this skill at their level. That gave birth to the “Catching Them Young” CSR initiative, where School of Eloquence alumni visit public schools to create awareness about eloquence at an early age, teach them the art of public speaking and let them know how important it is.
Mrs. Essien teaching the students during a session.
“Then at the end of the year, we call them to come and display what they have learned and how well they can perform in the art of public speaking at the Eloquence Cup competition”.
Kings College won the first and second editions in 2017 and 2018, while Queens College also triumphed in 2019 and 2021 respectively. CMS Grammar School is the current champion having won the competition in 2022.
Speaking further on the significant takeaway from previous editions of the competition, the Registrar pointed out that the sight of students coming together in a very keen contest; winning prizes for their efforts and the expression of joy on their faces afterwards is always beautiful to behold.
“It has been a fascinating journey because when you see this younger generation in action and speaking on topics of national importance, you will appreciate how knowledgeable the students are and the bright future that awaits them. This means that we’re making a positive impact in their lives and improving their presentation skills”, she added.
Mrs. Sowemimo a faculty member teaching students the structure of public speaking.
Schools and participants who have benefited from the Catching Them Young Programme have described it as an eye opening experience which leaves behind long lasting positive effects.
The teachers have also recognised the importance of public speaking skills for students and appreciated the programme, noting that such regular engagement and interactive discussions will help the students’ educational development.
Testimonials from some participants down the years.
“From what I have learnt today from the group from School of Eloquence, I believe the tools which were talked about will help in making the way I speak in public a lot better than I have been doing before. I also believe it will improve the way I communicate with people”. – Chiyere Amadu, Queens College, Yaba (2017).
Mr. Michael King, a member of the faculty showing the students how to make an impromptu speech.
“I have learnt today from the School of Eloquence how to speak perfectly and always be prepared before engaging engaging your audience, as it will go a long way to determine the outcome. I also learnt about eye contact – that your eyes must always be on the audience, monitoring everything they are doing.
“So, I believe if given the opportunity to speak next time, I will do wonderfully well because I have really learnt a lot from this seminar”. – Precious Ejike Reservation Senior School, Ajegunle (2017).
“The session and experience was so nice; I learnt so many things. I learnt the definition of public speaking, the importance and ways we can speak in public. I also learnt about the use of eye contact and how to get the audience’s attention”. – Favour Awanye Community Senior High School, Maryland (2018).
Students making impromptu speeches.
“I believe that no matter where I am, the confidence which has been imparted in me in this programme is going to play out. I am going to be very wherever I am speaking”. – Mary Ugoh Immaculate Heart Comprehensive High School (2019).
“The School of Eloquence is an asset to the schools they have been to. The programme is a way of motivating students and creating awareness about public speaking. It makes them have the ability and potential to speak in public confidently”. – Ojo Victoria Principal, Unity Senior High School, Oshodi (2019).
“School of Eloquence is a blessing. It is blessing to every student that has the opportunity to go through the School of Eloquence; get these materials and correct approach to public speaking. When I watched the speaker that came to talk to my students, I was moved to tears”. – Modinat Mohammed Vice Principal, Unity Senior High School.
Similarly, at the just concluded 2023 edition which took place in May, Sijuade Victor from Girls’ Secondary Senior Grammar School, Ikoyi, noted that she has made tremendous progress in conquering stage fright, improving audience engagement, and delivering structured speeches.
On her part, Labake George from Falomo Senior High School reveled in her newfound confidence and called for public speaking to be included in the school’s curriculum.
CMS Grammar School student lifts the Eloquence Cup trophy after winning the 2022 edition, as the founder and Dean, School of Eloquence, Ubong Essien CSP (4th from right) and others dignitaries look on.
Student from Victoria Island Senior Secondary School were also not left out in the exciting experience, participating in an impromptu speech test.
The likes of Jubril Aishat Enemona spoke about “Substance Abuse”; Felix .D. Marvelous’s speech was on the “Importance of Education to Trade”; Mathew Moses Kunle on “What Makes a Good Child”; Emmanuel Okeleke talked about “Exercise”, while Kareem Musiliu’s attempt was on the topic: “The Human Body”.
Also speaking, Mrs. Oluwabiyo, a teacher at Falomo Senior High School stressed the need for public speaking to be included as a subject in the school curriculum, arguing that it would help students overcome stage fright during debates and presentations.
The programme has also been held in Rivers State at Okrika National Secondary School, and Comprehensive Secondary School, Ebika-Okrika in the past, led by the state coordinator, Anthony Daniyan.
With the visible and positive impact made over the last couple of years through the programme, the School of Eloquence has pledged to continue touching the lives of secondary school students across Nigeria by “Catching Them Young” and exposing them early to the importance of eloquence to one’s life and career progression.
