Award-winning Nigerian actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has accomplished a historic milestone ahead of the UK release of her most recent film, Everybody Loves Jenifa.
For the first time, a Nigerian film has achieved this feat for a UK premiere as it sold out two screens for its December 20, 2024, release.
Akindele thanked her fans, whom she lovingly refers to as "Jenifans," on Instagram yesterday, December 15, after sharing the wonderful news.
She wrote: “Jenifans!!!!!!! You’ve outdone yourselves again. History made as the second screen for Everybody Loves Jenifa December 20th UK premiere is SOLD OUT.”
The film is already establishing new standards for Nigerian cinema internationally as it carries on the exploits of the beloved character Jenifa.
Nile Media Entertainment, the international distributor for the film, confirmed the historic achievement in a social media post:
“History made. Everybody Loves Jenifa becomes the first Nigerian film to sell out 2 screens before premiere. Jenifans, you’ve shattered records back-to-back ahead of the December 20th UK premiere. Thank you all for your unwavering support and love.”
Additionally, they urged fans to remain tuned for updates as they revealed intentions to add more territories and screens. While fans anxiously anticipate more screening information, the UK premiere of the movie is expected to elevate the global recognition of Nigerian cinema.