Funke targets ₦5bn with new cinema push

Nollywood filmmaker and actress Funke Akindele has set an ambitious ₦5 billion box-office target for her upcoming movie, The Four: No One Fights Alone, following the success of its London premiere ticket sales. The filmmaker is confident that the production can achieve remarkable commercial success while taking Nigerian storytelling to a wider international audience.

Speaking during a fireside chat with media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo at the Creative Africa Nexus Weekend in Lagos, Akindele welcomed the ₦5 billion target suggested for the movie. She responded enthusiastically, saying she loved the target and was ready to begin with that figure. She also expressed confidence that the team could consider going even further if the target was achieved.

The announcement has generated excitement among movie lovers, particularly because the filmmaker has already established herself as one of Nollywood’s most successful box-office producers. Her previous productions, including Behind The Scenes, Everybody Loves Jenifa and A Tribe Called Judah, have recorded impressive cinema performances.

Why the London Premiere Matters

One of the major highlights surrounding the upcoming movie is its international premiere scheduled for November 29 at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square in London. The event has already sold out, according to the film’s distributor, FilmOne Entertainment.

The sold-out premiere is significant because it demonstrates the growing interest in Nigerian productions beyond the country’s borders. Taking the movie to a recognised international cinema venue also provides an opportunity to introduce more international audiences to Nollywood’s creativity and storytelling.

The film is scheduled to arrive in Nigerian cinemas on December 11, 2026, following its international launch.

Nollywood’s Growing Global Ambition

Akindele’s latest project reflects a broader ambition within Nollywood to expand its presence in the international entertainment market. Nigerian filmmakers are increasingly exploring international premieres, partnerships, wider distribution opportunities and creative collaborations.

The actress has also spoken about the importance of intentional marketing, explaining that filmmakers must understand their audiences and actively promote their productions. According to her, publicity, social media campaigns and audience engagement are important parts of achieving commercial success.

With a strong cast featuring Bisola Aiyeola, Chioma Akpotha, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Timini Egbuson, Lateef Adedimeji and others, The Four is attracting attention ahead of its cinema debut.

Although the ₦5 billion target remains an ambition rather than confirmed earnings, the sold-out London premiere is an encouraging development. Akindele’s latest move could become another important milestone for Nollywood as Nigerian filmmakers continue working towards greater international recognition.