AY Makun’s ‘The Waiter’ Became a ₦300 Million Box Office Hit

Nigerian comedian, actor, and filmmaker AY Makun has once again proven his star power with his latest movie, The Waiter. The film has officially grossed over ₦305 million at the box office, making it one of Nollywood’s standout successes.

After just four weeks in cinemas, the action-comedy has cemented its place as a crowd favorite, drawing massive audiences nationwide.

Milestone achievement

Released on December 20, 2024, The Waiter hit the ground running, earning an impressive ₦218.6 million within its first two weeks. By January 15, 2025, it had reached ₦305.1 million, adding ₦26.6 million in its fourth week alone. 

These numbers place the movie among Nollywood’s elite box office hits, alongside other blockbusters like Toyin Abraham’s Alakada: Bad and Boujee and Everybody Loves Jenifa, which has grossed over ₦1.6 billion.

What you should know about the film

The movie follows the hilarious and touching journey of Akpos, played by AY Makun. Down on his luck, Akpos finds himself working as a temporary waiter at the luxurious Crystal Hotel. 

His life takes an unexpected twist during a high-profile event hosted by the Minister of Poverty Alleviation. The event reveals a grand initiative to support the underprivileged, but things don’t go as planned.

With a unique blend of humor, thrilling action, and emotional depth, The Waiter has struck a chord with audiences. Its sharp storytelling and compelling performances ensure that viewers remain entertained from start to finish.

AY Makun’s success at the box office

AY Makun’s success with The Waiter is a testament to his versatility and hard work. From his early days as a personal assistant to legendary comedian Alibaba, AY has risen to become one of Nigeria’s most celebrated entertainers.

Known for his hit comedy shows like AY Live and the sitcom AY’s Crib, AY has built a reputation as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry. He’s not just a comedian and actor but also a successful producer and entrepreneur. His company, Corporate World Entertainment Nigeria, has been instrumental in shaping modern Nigerian entertainment.

AY’s contributions extend beyond film and comedy. Through initiatives like the AY Open Mic Challenge, he has discovered and mentored many of today’s top comedians. His ability to combine humor with relatable storytelling has made him a household name.