The year 2025 proved a watershed moment for Nigeria’s entertainment industry, characterized by remarkable triumphs in film and music, lavish celebrity unions, and a series of high-profile controversies that captivated national attention. From record-breaking box office performances and global streaming dominance to intricate personal dramas, the sector showcased its dynamic and influential role on both local and international stages.
Nollywood’s cinematic landscape saw unprecedented success, with Funke Akindele’s “Behind the Scenes” leading the charge. The film achieved critical and commercial acclaim, surpassing N500 million in ticket sales to become the highest-grossing Nigerian movie of the year. It quickly reached N512 million, setting a new record as the fastest Nigerian production to achieve such a figure, further cementing Akindele’s consistent dominance during the competitive December cinema period.
Other notable cinematic achievements included “Gingerrr,” which secured N509 million at the box office, praised for its unique blend of humour, suspense, and crime storytelling. Muyiwa Ademola’s Yoruba-language drama, “Ori: Rebirth,” earned approximately N419.5 million, while “Reel Love” and Toyin Abraham’s “Iyalode” rounded out the top five, demonstrating the diverse appeal and commercial viability of Nigerian filmmaking.
In music, the Nigerian sound continued its global ascent, with streaming platforms serving as the primary metric for success. Wizkid’s album “Morayo,” released in late 2024, maintained its immense popularity throughout 2025, topping Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube charts and demonstrating his enduring appeal across generations. Davido also enjoyed a strong year, with his album “5ive” producing several chart-topping hits across Africa, and his single “With You,” featuring Omah Lay, emerging as the year’s most-shared track.
Burna Boy sustained his formidable international presence despite facing some tour-related controversies, as his music continued to perform strongly across Europe and North America. Other artists like Asake, Rema, Ayra Starr, and Seyi Vibez also made significant impacts, with the industry increasingly focusing on online engagement, music videos, and international partnerships to expand its global reach.
Celebrity weddings also captured widespread public interest, none more so than the elaborate celebrations of singer Mr Eazi and entrepreneur Temi Otedola. Their marital journey commenced with a civil ceremony in Monaco, followed by a grand traditional Yoruba celebration at the Otedola family residence in Dubai, attended by prominent figures. The festivities concluded with an intimate ceremony in Iceland, featuring a surprise performance by John Legend, marking a truly global and high-profile union.
Davido and long-time partner Chioma Avril Rowland also solemnized their relationship with a lavish white wedding in Miami, attracting a host of celebrities, music executives, and fans from across continents. Similarly, influencer Priscilla Ojo and Tanzanian singer Juma Jux garnered extensive social media attention with their multi-event wedding, spanning intimate introductions in Tanzania and vibrant traditional and civil ceremonies in Nigeria, generating significant online buzz.
The year was not without its share of controversies and high-profile breakups. Actress Regina Daniels and her billionaire husband, Senator Ned Nwoko, faced a widely publicized marital crisis. Speculation intensified after Daniels removed Nwoko’s name from her social media and later publicly accused him of intimidation, alleging family arrests and attempts to coerce her into an unwanted rehabilitation programme. Nwoko vehemently denied these claims, suggesting an alternative narrative.
Music icon 2Baba and his wife Annie confirmed their separation, with 2Baba later announcing his relationship with Natasha Osawaru, a member of the Edo State House of Assembly. Subsequent public tensions between 2Baba and Osawaru, including reported police intervention in the UK, led to family accusations of assault and financial misconduct against Osawaru, who was later summoned by the Edo House of Assembly over alleged misconduct. Fuji legend K1 De Ultimate also made headlines after an airport incident involving a flask, which resulted in his placement on a no-fly list and a subsequent apology.
Further controversies included the arrest of music executive Jude Okoye by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on allegations of diverting over $1 million in royalties; he pleaded not guilty. Afrobeats star Asake also faced public scrutiny when his father accused him of neglect following a stroke. Asake later clarified his consistent financial support and arranged for his father’s housing and medical bills, easing the public debate.
Amidst the celebrations and controversies, 2025 also brought moments of profound sadness. The industry mourned the passing of veteran actor Tom Njemanze, who succumbed to prostate cancer. His death prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans, recognizing his significant contributions to Nollywood’s foundational years.
