The Federal Government has commended Nollywood star and filmmaker Funke Akindele for the historic success of her latest movie, Behind the Scenes, which has smashed records at the Nigerian box office.
In a statement shared on its X handle, the National Orientation Agency hailed Akindele’s achievement as a major boost for Nigeria’s creative industry and a sign of the growing global appetite for Nigerian stories.
“Behind the Scenes has officially crossed ₦2.1 billion at the Nigerian box office, marking the first time a Nollywood film has ever hit the ₦2 billion milestone. Its appeal extended beyond Nigeria, generating over $111,000 in Canada and more than $190,000 across North America. From cinemas in Lagos and Abuja to theaters abroad, audiences couldn’t get enough,” the agency said.
The NOA also highlighted that Akindele has now become the first filmmaker to top the African box office for three consecutive years, a feat that underscores her influence and the rising prominence of Nigerian cinema worldwide.
The government’s recognition reflects the wider excitement surrounding the 2025 release, which continues to dominate local screens while asserting Nollywood’s growing international presence. Behind the Scenes is being celebrated not just as a box office hit but as a milestone for the country’s cultural and creative industries, further cementing Akindele’s legacy in African cinema.
