Nollywood producer Laju Iren has achieved a notable milestone with her debut theatrical project as an executive producer, as the film ‘Onobiren: A Woman’s Story’ opened to strong audience reception across Nigeria and Ghana. Released over the weekend of March 6 to 8, 2026, the movie earned N30.1 million in ticket sales, securing the top spot at the Nigerian box office and surpassing both local and foreign competitors. This performance highlights the growing appeal of character-focused stories in African cinema.
The film centers on Roli, a determined young woman who relocates from Warri to Lagos in search of better opportunities. Through her journey, it delves into universal themes such as perseverance, self-discovery, and the strength found in bonds between women, all while honoring the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria’s Niger Delta region. Directed with an emphasis on emotional depth, the production was a collaborative effort involving Africa No Filter, Creative Economy Practice, and Laju Iren Films. According to Laju, many scenes were filmed in Koko, Delta State to add a layer of regional authenticity to the film.
The movie features standout performances from Ruby Akubueze as the lead, alongside Bisola Aiyeola, Deyemi Okanlawon, Patience Ozokwor, Norbert Young, and Desmond Bryce. It made its premiere on March 1, 2026, at EbonyLife Cinemas in Lagos, setting the stage for its commercial rollout.
Laju Iren took to social media to express her excitement over the results, posting,
“Thank you Nigeria! Highest grossing film the weekend overall, whether Nollywood or Hollywood.”
She added,
“Thank you all for showing up! This is just the beginning. Many more milestones to reach and records to break.”
This debut adds to the vibrant momentum in Nollywood, where stories centered on women’s experiences continue to resonate and drive commercial viability. As Onobiren builds on its initial buzz, it positions itself as a contender for further box office records in the coming weeks.