Nollywood’s Highest-Grossing Cinematographers in 2024?

In 2024, Nollywood’s top cinematographers demonstrated just how crucial their role is in the success of the industry. Collectively, they helped to generate a staggering N3.38 billion in box office earnings, capturing 46% of Nigeria’s total box office revenue of N11.58 billion. 

Their incredible contributions were essential in making Nollywood a powerhouse in African cinema, as they played a key part in the commercial success of 73 Nollywood films across 106 cinemas.

With 15 Nollywood films grossing over N100 million each, these cinematographers proved how exceptional visuals can elevate a film’s appeal and financial performance. Their work has not only entertained audiences but also helped shape Nollywood into an industry now valued at approximately $6.4 billion. Here are some top cinematographers who made 2024 a remarkable year for Nollywood.

John Demps –  Everybody Loves Jenifa (N1.125 billion)

John Demps, a seasoned cinematographer with a career spanning decades, stands at the top of Nollywood’s highest-grossing cinematographers in 2024. His work on the comedy film Everybody Loves Jenifa helped it gross an astounding N1.125 billion at the box office.

Demps is a veteran who transitioned from Hollywood, where he worked with iconic figures like Tupac and Snoop Dogg, to Nollywood, where his Hollywood-inspired techniques seamlessly blended with Nigerian storytelling. His success is a testament to his skill in creating visual narratives that captivate both local and global audiences. Demps has worked on other major Nollywood films like Living in Bondage: Breaking Free and Omo Ghetto: The Saga. His impact on Nollywood is undeniable, raising the industry’s standards and attracting worldwide attention.

Emmanuel Igbekele – Queen Lateefah, Ajosepo, Farmer’s Bride (N790 million)

Emmanuel Igbekele’s cinematographic talent helped to power some of the most successful films of 2024. His work on Queen Lateefah, Ajosepo, and Farmer’s Bride grossed a combined N790 million at the box office.

A graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Igbekele has developed a strong reputation as a colorist and cinematographer. His ability to create stunning visuals that support a film’s narrative has made him one of Nollywood’s top cinematographers. 

Idowu Adedapo – Beast of Two Worlds, Alakada Bad & Boujee (N483 million)

Idowu Adedapo is one of Nollywood’s most versatile cinematographers, contributing his skill to films like Beast of Two Worlds and Alakada Bad & Boujee. These two films grossed a total of N483 million in 2024.

Adedapo is known for his exceptional eye for detail and his ability to create visually rich scenes. His experience spans television and film, and he has worked on major projects such as Blood Sisters and Oloture. 

Emmanuel Oputa – The Waiter (N189 million)

Emmanuel Oputa’s cinematographic expertise was on full display in the 2024 hit film The Waiter, which grossed N189 million. Oputa, a graduate of the National Film Institute of Nigeria, began his career as a cinematographer in 2018 and has quickly gained recognition for his work on various films and TV dramas.

Hiss work on The Waiter demonstrated his ability to create compelling visuals that enhance the film’s emotional impact, contributing to its commercial success.

Sanjo Adegoke – Lakatabu (N202 million)

Sanjo Adegoke is a multifaceted Nigerian filmmaker known for his work as a cinematographer, editor, and VFX artist. In 2024, his work on Lakatabu, directed by Odunlade Adekola, helped the film gross N202 million at the box office.

Adegoke’s versatility and expertise in multiple areas of filmmaking have made him a standout in Nollywood. As an AMVCA 2023 nominee, Adegoke continues to build his reputation in the industry with his impressive work across various genres.

Ifeme C.S. –  All’s Fair in Love, Move Like a Boss (N158 million)

Ifeme Chidiebere Samuel, known as Ifeme C.S., is an emerging talent in Nollywood. His work on the films All’s Fair in Love and Move Like a Boss grossed a combined N158 million in 2024.

Starting his career in photography, Ifeme transitioned to cinematography and quickly made a name for himself with his distinctive visual style. His attention to detail and ability to enhance storytelling through visuals have made him a rising star in Nollywood.

Lance Gewer – Funmilayo Ransom Kuti (N157 million)

Lance Gewer, a South African cinematographer, brought his decades of experience to Nollywood in 2024 with his work on the biopic Funmilayo Ransom Kuti. The film grossed N157 million at the box office.

Known for his Oscar-winning work on Tsotsi, Gewer has had a profound influence on Nollywood’s cinematic language. 

Barnabas Emodi – The Betrayed, When Love Strikes, A Night in 2005 (N149 million)

Barnabas “Barny” Emodi is another key cinematographer who helped shape Nollywood’s success in 2024. His work on The Betrayed, When Love Strikes, and A Night in 2005 contributed to a combined N149 million in box office earnings.

Emodi has also made waves internationally, working on Netflix’s Stories of a Generation with Pope Francis and contributing his cinematographic expertise to major projects featured in publications like Huffington Post and Washington Post.

Adekunle Adejuigbe Nodash – Wives on Strike: The Uprising (N127 million)

Adekunle Adejuigbe Nodash, known for his work on the Wives on Strike franchise, contributed to N127 million in box office earnings in 2024.

Nodash, also the MD/CEO of Something Unusual Studios, is known for setting international standards in Nigerian filmmaking. His work has earned him a spot on prestigious global platforms, including the Cannes Film Festival’s African Films Pavilion (2020).