Today we’re celebrating the highest-grossing cinematographers of Nollywood 2024 and their achievements in the year.
Nollywood’s top nine cinematographers delivered a staggering ₦3.38 billion in box office earnings in 2024, proving their vital role in the industry’s commercial achievements.
These visual maestros contributed significantly to the success of 73 Nollywood films released in 106 cinemas, capturing 46% of Nigeria’s total box office revenue of ₦11.58 billion, as reported by Filmone Entertainment.
Their remarkable contributions powered 15 Nollywood films to gross over ₦100 million each, highlighting how exceptional cinematography can amplify a film’s appeal and financial success.
These cinematographers are crucial players in Nollywood’s growing value chain, which is now worth an estimated $6.4 billion. Their visuals not only captivate audiences but also enhance storytelling, positioning Nollywood as a formidable competitor in the global market.
Despite Hollywood’s 54% dominance of the Nigerian box office in 2024, these top-performing cinematographers are pushing Nollywood toward global visual standards. Let’s explore the top nine highest-grossing cinematographers of 2024.
9. Adekunle Adejuigbe Nodash
Film: Wives on Strike: The Uprising
Gross: ₦127 million
Adekunle Adejuigbe, widely known as Nodash, is a renowned cinematographer and filmmaker. As the Director of Photography for Omoni Oboli’s Wives on Strike franchise, he delivered visuals that contributed to an impressive ₦127 million gross.
Nodash is the MD/CEO of Something Unusual Studios and leads The Elite Film Team (T.E.F.T), setting benchmarks for international standards in Nigerian filmmaking.
Recognized as a FESPACO jury member and a representative at global platforms like the Cannes Film Festival, Nodash continues to elevate Nollywood’s global reputation.
8. Barnabas Emodi
Films: The Betrayed, When Love Strikes, A Night in 2005
Gross: ₦149 million
Barnabas “Barny” Emodi has cemented his position as a prominent cinematographer and director in Nollywood. His visuals in The Betrayed, When Love Strikes and A Night in 2005 collectively grossed ₦149 million.
An AMVCA nominee, Emodi’s diverse portfolio includes hits like Elevator Baby, Superstar, and DOD. Internationally, he contributed to Netflix’s Stories of a Generation with Pope Francis, showcasing his global appeal.
7. Lance Gewer
Film: Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti
Gross: ₦157 million
South African cinematographer Lance Gewer brought his 28 years of expertise to Nollywood, capturing the essence of Bolanle Austen-Peters’ Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti. The biopic grossed ₦157 million before premiering on Amazon Prime.
Gewer, known for his Oscar-winning work on Tsotsi, has an impressive résumé that includes films like Otelo Burning and Beat the Drum. His contributions to Nollywood exemplify the blending of international and local cinematic excellence.
6. Ifeme C.S.
Films: All’s Fair in Love and Move Like a Boss
Gross: ₦158 million
Ifeme Chidiebere Samuel transitioned from photography to filmmaking with a keen eye for detail. His work on All’s Fair in Love and Move Like a Boss collectively grossed ₦158 million, solidifying his reputation as one of Nollywood’s rising cinematographers.
From directing music videos for prominent artists to crafting visuals for blockbusters, Ifeme continues to redefine Nollywood’s aesthetic standards.
READ ALSO: Why Nollywood screenwriters deserve better pay
5. Sanjo Adegoke
Film: Lakatabu
Gross: ₦202 million
Sanjo Adegoke’s innovative approach to cinematography and VFX has made him a force to reckon with in Nollywood. His work on Odunlade Adekola’s Lakatabu resulted in an impressive ₦202 million gross.
A 2023 AMVCA nominee for Best Editor, Adegoke blends technical expertise with artistic vision, pushing the boundaries of Nigerian cinema.
4. Emmanuel Oputa
Film: The Waiter
Gross: ₦189 million
Emmanuel Oputa has rapidly risen in Nollywood. His cinematography for AY Makun’s The Waiter grossed ₦189 million, crossing ₦300 million by early 2025.
With a portfolio spanning films, TV shows, and documentaries, Oputa continues to set new standards in visual storytelling.
3. Idowu Adedapo
Films: Beast of Two Worlds, Alakada Bad & Boujee
Gross: ₦483 million
Idowu Adedapo’s exceptional visuals have made him a key player in Nollywood. His work on Beast of Two Worlds and Alakada Bad & Boujee collectively grossed ₦483 million in 2024.
With credits in Netflix hits like Blood Sisters and Oloture, Adedapo’s craft is shaping the narrative of modern Nigerian cinema.
2. Emmanuel Igbekele
Films: Queen Lateefah, Ajosepo, Farmer’s Bride
Gross: ₦790 million
Emmanuel Igbekele’s artistry elevated Queen Lateefah, Ajosepo, and Farmer’s Bride to a combined box office gross of ₦790 million.
A graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Igbekele’s work spans feature films, documentaries, and commercials, cementing his place as a master of cinematic visuals.
1. John Demps
Film: Everybody Loves Jenifa
Gross: ₦1.125 billion
John Demps stands at the pinnacle of Nollywood cinematography, with Everybody Loves Jenifa grossing an extraordinary ₦1.125 billion.
Demps, who began his career in Hollywood, has brought global expertise to Nollywood, with credits in hits like Living in Bondage: Breaking Free and The Trade. His ability to merge Hollywood techniques with Nigerian storytelling has revolutionized Nollywood’s visual landscape.
These top cinematographers are not just technicians but visionary artists redefining Nollywood’s storytelling and setting benchmarks for future filmmakers. Their work continues to inspire and captivate audiences, proving that Nollywood is a global cinematic force to watch.
