Nollywood’s commercial landscape in 2025 was shaped decisively by directors whose creative vision translated into strong audience turnout and sustained box office performance. According to data from the Nigeria Box Office Year Book compiled by FilmOne Entertainment, the following directors emerged as the industry’s top performers based on theatrical releases that each grossed over ₦120 million as of December 31, 2025.
Jointly occupying the top position are Funke Akindele and Tunde Olaoye, whose collaboration on Behind The Scenes delivered an extraordinary ₦1.32 billion in box office revenue. The film’s success underscored the power of mainstream storytelling backed by disciplined production and mass appeal, cementing both directors’ status at the summit of Nollywood’s commercial hierarchy.
In second place is Adebayo Tijani, who recorded a combined ₦1.59 billion from a slate that included Ori: Rebirth, Iyálode, Abanise: The Ancestor, Warlord: Olori Ogun, and Her Excellency. His output in 2025 reflected both scale and consistency, with culturally rooted narratives that resonated strongly with cinema audiences.
Third on the list is Tope Adebayo, whose work across Ori: Rebirth, Abanise: The Ancestor, Warlord: Olori Ogun, and Her Excellency generated ₦852 million. His placement highlights the commercial strength of directors capable of sustaining audience interest across multiple titles within a single year.
At number four, Yemi Morafa, popularly known as Film Boy, earned ₦522 million with Gingerrr. The film’s performance reinforced his growing influence among younger cinema audiences and his command of contemporary visual storytelling.
Fifth position belongs to Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi, whose directorial effort on Oversabi Aunty closed the year with ₦480 million. Her success further demonstrated her ability to move seamlessly between acting and directing while maintaining strong commercial appeal.
In sixth place is Kayode Kasum, whose work on Reel Love and Serpent Gift delivered ₦422 million. Known for polished storytelling and audience-friendly narratives, his films continued to perform reliably at the box office.
Seventh on the ranking is Muyiwa Ademola, whose culturally grounded epic Ori: The Rebirth generated ₦419 million. His inclusion reflects the enduring strength of tradition-based storytelling when paired with modern cinematic execution.
At number eight, Biodun Stephen recorded ₦341 million from Labake Olododo and Asoebi Diaries. Her work stood out for its emotional clarity and strong connection with urban audiences.
Ninth place is held by Adeoluwa Owu, whose films Owambe Thieves and The Benefactor earned a combined ₦248 million, reflecting steady commercial performance within ensemble-driven storytelling.
Rounding out the top ten is Daniel Etim, whose film The Herd closed the year with ₦193 million, securing his position among Nollywood’s most commercially impactful directors of 2025.
Collectively, these directors defined Nollywood’s box office momentum in 2025. Their success points to an industry increasingly driven by measurable performance, audience trust, and directors who can consistently convert creative vision into commercial results.
