The Federal Government of Nigeria has lauded Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele on the record-breaking box office performance of her latest movie, Behind the Scenes.
In a statement posted on its X handle on Monday, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) described Akindele’s feat as a major boost for Nigeria’s creative industry and a testament to the growing global acceptance of Nigerian stories.
The agency stated: “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 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.”
According to the NOA, the movie’s performance also highlighted Akindele’s achievement as the first filmmaker to rank No. 1 at the African box office for three consecutive years.
The agency said the success of Behind the Scenes demonstrates the expanding reach of Nigerian motion picture industry and reinforces the global appeal of Nollywood productions, describing the achievement as a proud moment for the country’s creative sector.