The Nigerian film industry has been thriving in recent years, with Nollywood movies of the 2020s reaching new heights in storytelling, box office success, and global recognition. From blockbuster comedies to perfectly-played historical dramas, these films have set the bar for what Nollywood can achieve.

Whether you’re looking for laughter, drama, or action, this list highlights the top Nollywood movies of the 2020s that have made the biggest impact so far.

1. Everybody Loves Jenifa (2024)

When it comes to Nollywood movies of the 2020s, Funke Akindele is a name that keeps dominating the charts. Everybody Loves Jenifa continues the saga of Jenifa, the beloved street-smart character, blending comedy, drama, and heartwarming moments.

The film became the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of all time, raking in over ₦1.46 billion. It’s not just a movie; it’s a cultural moment that proves Funke Akindele’s reign in Nollywood is far from over.

2. A Tribe Called Judah (2023)

Among the most successful Nollywood movies of the 2020s, A Tribe Called Judah stands out as an emotional yet thrilling story of five brothers who plan a robbery, only for their heist to take an unexpected turn.

With a powerful mix of humor, crime, and family drama, this film grossed ₦1.40 billion, securing its place as the second-highest-grossing Nollywood movie ever.

3. Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020)

Before A Tribe Called Judah and Everybody Loves Jenifa, Funke Akindele had already delivered another record-breaking hit, “Omo Ghetto: The Saga.”

This action-packed comedy follows Lefty and her gang as they navigate life in the streets. It was the highest-grossing Nollywood movie for two years, earning over ₦636 million, and remains one of the most beloved Nollywood movies of the 2020s.

4. The Milkmaid (2020)

While many Nollywood movies of the 2020s have focused on entertainment, The Milkmaid took on a powerful social issue. Directed by Desmond Ovbiagele, this gripping drama follows two sisters caught in the horrors of insurgency in Northern Nigeria.

The film made history as Nigeria’s submission for Best International Feature Film at the Oscars, marking a significant moment for Nollywood on the global stage.

5. Citation (2020)

Among the most critically acclaimed Nollywood movies of the 2020s, Citation shines as an important film tackling sexual harassment in Nigerian universities. Directed by Kunle Afolayan, it follows a young woman’s fight for justice against a respected professor.

With a standout performance by Temi Otedola, the film sparked national conversations about gender and power dynamics in Nigeria.

6. King of Thieves (Ogundabede) (2022)

If you’re a fan of action-packed Nollywood movies of the 2020s, then King of Thieves is a must-watch. This Yoruba-language historical epic tells the legendary story of a feared warrior who terrorizes a kingdom.

With breathtaking cinematography and deep cultural roots, King of Thieves became one of Nollywood’s biggest success stories, proving that audiences are hungry for traditional folklore on the big screen.

7. Battle on Buka Street (2022)

Some of the most entertaining Nollywood movies of the 2020s revolve around family drama, and Battle on Buka Street delivers it in style. This comedy-drama, directed by Funke Akindele, follows two rival women fighting for dominance in the local food business.

Grossing over ₦668 million, the film was a box office smash and remains a fan favorite.

8. House of Ga’a (2024)

Historical Nollywood movies of the 2020s are rare, but House of Ga’a is a shining example of how powerful they can be. This epic drama takes audiences back to the 18th-century Oyo Empire, exploring the rise and fall of the controversial nobleman Bashorun Ga’a.

Directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters, this film offers a visually stunning and thought-provoking look at Nigerian history.

9. Hijack ’93 (2024)

Some of the best Nollywood movies of the 2020s are based on real-life events, and Hijack ’93 is a prime example. This thriller, directed by Robert O. Peters, tells the intense story of a Nigerian Airways flight hijacking in 1993.

Packed with suspense, historical significance, and political intrigue, Hijack ’93 kept its viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

10. The Wildflower (2022)

Many Nollywood movies of the 2020s focus on social issues, and The Wildflower is one that truly resonates. This gripping drama follows a woman’s battle against domestic violence, shedding light on an important societal issue.

With a strong cast and a message that sticks with audiences long after the credits roll, The Wildflower is a film that deserves recognition.