Nigerian actor and filmmaker, Ibrahim Yekini, known as Itele, is currently reveling in the glory of his movie ‘Kesari,’ a Nollywood production, which has achieved a remarkable feat. ‘Kesari’ has surpassed Hollywood blockbusters in Nigerian cinemas. Itele shared this exciting news on Instagram, expressing his gratitude for the achievement.
In his words, “Olorun iyanu🙏🙏🙏🙏 To be the Number 1 Nollywood film is something, but to be the Number 1 film for both Hollywood and Nollywood movie of the week in West Africa is truly impressive. It can only be God. I’m humbled and grateful to you all for your support to achieve this iconic record🚨🚨 #kesaristillShowingincinemas #number1movieoftheweekinwestafrica”
‘Kesari’ stands as the first Indigenous Nigerian title to claim the top spot at the box office. Co-directed by Tope Adebayo and Ibrahim ‘Itele D Icon’ Yekini, and co-produced by Itele d’Icon Film Production and FilmOne Production, it marks a significant milestone in Nigerian cinema. Despite strong competition from Hollywood releases like ‘Blue Beetle,’ ‘Barbie,’ ‘Meg 2: The Trench,’ and ‘Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One,’ ‘Kesari’ had a successful weekend opening.
Within its first three days, the movie earned N21.50 million, accumulating a total of N24.06 million at the box office. These figures are impressive, considering the film’s origins as a YouTube IP. ‘Kesari’ boasts a star-studded cast featuring renowned Nollywood actors, including Femi Adebayo, Adebowale Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, and many more. With such a talented ensemble, the film’s success was highly anticipated.
watch the movie trailer below for a glimpse of this remarkable achievement.