Nigeria’s cinema landscape has witnessed remarkable transformation in recent years, driven by the resurgence of Nollywood films and the expansion of multiplex chains across the country.
According to industry data, the Nigerian box office more than doubled from N7.36 billion in 2023 to N15.64 billion in 2025, with projected revenue hitting N20 billion by the end of 2026 as operators focus on monetisation and premium experiences.
Nollywood productions now command nearly half of all box office revenue, accounting for 49.4 per cent of total takings in 2025, just ahead of Hollywood titles, signaling the growing commercial appeal of local storytelling.
Amidst this growth are the owners of Nigeria’s largest cinema circuits, from international-style chains like Silverbird and Filmhouse to pioneering independent exhibitors.
These operators not only screen blockbuster international films but also increasingly support Nollywood titles that draw local audiences.
As cinemas expand from Lagos into secondary cities and adapt with digital ticketing and varied formats, the sector illustrates how Nigerian cinema culture continues to evolve, blending global content with homegrown creativity and entrepreneurial leadership.
10. Ooni of Ife-Owner and Founder Ojaja Cinemas
- 12. Olusegun Obasanjo: Founder OOPL Cinemas
- 11. Prince Adeyinka Afonja: Founder Ace Cinemas
- 10. Ooni of Ife-Owner and Founder Ojaja Cinemas
- 9. Moses Babatope: CEO Nile Cinemas
- 8. Tayo Amusan, MD,- Persianas Group (Viva Cinemas)
- 7. Mo Abudu- Founder, Ebony Life Cinemas
- 6. Ben Murray-Bruce- Founder and chairman of Silverbird Group
- 5.
- 4. Nnaeto Orazulike: Founder Genesis Cinemas
- 3.
- 2. Kene Okwuosa: Group Managing Director Filmhouse Cinemas
- 1.
Ojaja Cinemas is a boutique cinema located at Ojaja Mall, offering a curated and intimate movie-going experience.
The Lagos site features four screens across four rooms with a combined seating capacity of roughly 500, including the Red Room (180 seats), Blue Room (180 seats), and an 18-seat VIP section.
Unlike large multiplexes, Ojaja Cinemas focuses on quality, comfort, and specialized viewing experiences, showcasing top box-office releases.
Ownership of the cinema rests with Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, also known as Ọjájá II, the 51st Ooni of Ife and a direct descendant of Odùdùwà, the legendary founder of Ile-Ife.
The cinemas operate under the broader cultural and economic initiatives of his House of Oduduwa Foundation, which aims to promote youth employment, entrepreneurship, and the preservation of Yoruba culture.
In November 2024, Nile Cinemas, led by Moses Babatope, signed a landmark management agreement to oversee operations at Ojaja Cinemas.
This partnership positions the chain for significant expansion, as the Ooni envisions deploying 1,000 screens across Nigeria over the next five years, starting with sites in Ile-Ife, Akure, and Lagos.
Ojaja Cinemas operates with three sites and earned N115 million in 2025. It accounts for 0.7% of the GBO share and 1.2% of admissions.
10. Ooni of Ife-Owner and Founder Ojaja Cinemas
- 12. Olusegun Obasanjo: Founder OOPL Cinemas
- 11. Prince Adeyinka Afonja: Founder Ace Cinemas
- 10. Ooni of Ife-Owner and Founder Ojaja Cinemas
- 9. Moses Babatope: CEO Nile Cinemas
- 8. Tayo Amusan, MD,- Persianas Group (Viva Cinemas)
- 7. Mo Abudu- Founder, Ebony Life Cinemas
- 6. Ben Murray-Bruce- Founder and chairman of Silverbird Group
- 5.
- 4. Nnaeto Orazulike: Founder Genesis Cinemas
- 3.
- 2. Kene Okwuosa: Group Managing Director Filmhouse Cinemas
- 1.
