Nigeria’s famous Detty December season is in full swing, and cinemas across the country are buzzing as Nollywood blockbusters dominate the holiday box office, pulling in massive crowds and record-breaking numbers.
The festive season, known for concerts, parties, reunions and nonstop celebrations, has once again proven to be Nollywood’s golden window, with local films outperforming international releases and turning cinemas into packed entertainment hubs.
Funke Akindele’s ‘Behind The Scenes’ Sets The Records
Leading the charge is ‘Behind The Scenes,’ produced and co-directed by Nollywood heavyweight Funke Akindele.
Released nationwide on December 12, 2025, following advance screenings and a London premiere, the FilmOne-distributed movie has shattered box office records. In just 12 days, the film grossed ₦512 million, making it the fastest Nollywood movie to cross the ₦500 million mark and the highest-grossing Nollywood film of 2025 so far.
The drama explores the pressures of black tax; the financial burden placed on successful family members through the story of a wealthy philanthropist pushed to her limits by constant demands.
The film boasts a star-studded cast led by Scarlet Gomez, alongside Funke Akindele, Iyabo Ojo, Destiny Etiko, Tobi Bakre, Uzor Arukwe, Ini Dima-Okojie, Mr Macaroni, and BBNaija stars Handi and Wanni.
Reacting to the milestone, Akindele declared on social media:
“This is what belief looks like.”
While critics remain divided; some praising its commercial strength and relatable themes, others pointing out familiar storytelling patterns, however, audiences across Nigeria and Ghana have embraced the film massively.
Toyin Abraham Brings Comedy With ‘Over Sabi Aunty’
Also heating up the box office is ‘Over Sabi Aunty,’ produced, directed by and starring Toyin Abraham.
Released on December 19, 2025, the comedy-drama follows an overzealous church usher whose excessive interference disrupts family relationships, delivering humour layered with moral lessons.
The film features a strong supporting cast including Mike Ezuruonye, Efe Irele, Jemima Osunde, Queen Nwokoye, and Enioluwa Adeoluwa. The title draws from Abraham’s popular nickname, ‘Oversabi Aunty,’ earned from her outspoken presence at high-profile events.
Nollywood Holds Its Ground Against Hollywood
Despite competition from Hollywood blockbuster ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash,’ which opened with ₦87 million in its first weekend, Nollywood films continue to hold strong, proving the power of culturally resonant storytelling during the festive season.
‘Colours of Fire’ Adds Epic Flair
Adding to the Detty December lineup is ‘Colours of Fire,’ an epic drama by director Niyi Akinmolayan, released on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025.
Produced by Anthill Studios and distributed by FilmOne, the movie promises high-stakes drama, passion and cultural depth, featuring Osas Ighodaro, Uzor Arukwe, Mercy Aigbe, and Gabriel Afolayan. Its teaser and first-look visuals have generated strong anticipation among movie lovers.
Detty December Belongs to Nollywood
With ‘Behind The Scenes’ setting new benchmarks, ‘Over Sabi Aunty’ delivering laughs and heart, and ‘Colours of Fire’ bringing epic storytelling to cinemas, Nollywood has firmly claimed Detty December.
These films highlight the industry’s growth, blending entertainment with social commentary, and proving that when audiences believe in local stories, the box office responds. As Detty December continues, cinemas remain the ultimate destination for celebration, spectacle and Nigerian storytelling.