January 26, (THEWILL) — The Federal Government has praised Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele for the record-breaking box office performance of her latest film, Behind the Scenes.
In a statement posted on its X handle on Monday, the National Orientation Agency said Akindele’s success is a big win for Nigeria’s creative industry and shows that Nigerian stories are gaining global acceptance.
According to the agency, “Behind the Scenes has officially crossed ₦2.1 billion at the Nigerian box office, making history as the first Nollywood film ever to hit the ₦2 billion mark.”
The statement read:
“The flex did not stop at home; the movie also showed modest global muscle, raking in over $111,256 in Canada and an impressive $190,249 across North America.”
“From Lagos to Toronto, from cinemas in Abuja to theatres overseas — this movie had everyone locked in.”
The NOA said the film also highlights Akindele’s achievement as the first filmmaker to rank number one at the African box office for three consecutive years.
“The success of Behind the Scenes demonstrates the expanding reach of Nigeria’s film industry and reinforces the global appeal of Nollywood productions, describing the achievement as a proud moment for the country’s cultural and creative sectors.” the agency added.
Behind the Scenes premiered in cinemas in December 2025.
It has continued to draw large audiences in Nigeria and abroad, making it the highest-grossing Nollywood film to date, further cementing Akindele’s status as one of Africa’s top filmmakers.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
