Nollywood fans turned out in large numbers this Easter weekend as Iyabo Ojo’s new film, The Return of Arinzo, released on April 5, 2026, grossed an impressive ₦104.8 million at Nigerian cinemas, making it the highest-grossing Easter opener in the country’s film history.
The movie, which blends suspense, drama, and traditional Nigerian storytelling, drew audiences from Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and other major cities. Cinema chains reported packed screenings, with some showings selling out within hours of ticket release.
Industry analysts say the success reflects Nollywood’s growing ability to attract mainstream audiences for homegrown productions, particularly during festive periods. Many fans praised the film’s engaging storyline, strong performances, and high production quality.
Ojo, a veteran actress and filmmaker, expressed her excitement on social media, thanking viewers for supporting the film and encouraging more Nigerians to embrace local cinema.
With this strong start, The Return of Arinzo is expected to maintain momentum in the coming weeks, potentially breaking further box office records for Nollywood films in 2026.
