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.
9. Moses Babatope: CEO Nile 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.
Moses Babatope is a leading figure in the Nigerian and African film industry, with over 20 years of experience spanning cinema exhibition, film distribution, and production.
He is the Group CEO of Nile Media Entertainment Group and the co-founder of both Filmhouse Group and UK-based Talking Drum Entertainment Limited.
Babatope has produced and executive-produced over 40 Nollywood titles and brokered major international deals with Disney, Netflix, Prime Video, Sony, and Warner Bros., contributing to the growth of West Africa’s film market.
He previously co-founded and managed FilmOne Entertainment, overseeing theatrical release strategies for more than 60 films annually and handling licensing for major studios in English-speaking West Africa.
Under his leadership, FilmOne secured co-production deals that produced instant box office successes, including The Wedding Party franchise, which became the highest-grossing Nigerian films of all time.
In exhibition, Babatope leads Nile Luxury Cinemas, a premium cinema chain focused on intimate, high-end viewing experiences.
In late 2025, Nile expanded its footprint by acquiring and upgrading former Viva Cinemas locations, now operating eight sites across Nigeria with enhanced seating and luxury amenities.
An alumnus of Middlesex University, Babatope earned a Bachelor of Arts in Money, Banking and Finance and a Master of Science in International Finance.
9. Moses Babatope: CEO Nile 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.
