Nollywood actress and producer Eniola Ajao’s latest film, Owambe Thieves, has stormed the Nigerian box office, earning an impressive ₦53.6 million in its first three days. The crime drama, which premiered nationwide on Easter Friday, quickly became one of the most talked-about releases of April 2025, second only to the blockbuster Labake Olododo, which continues to dominate with a cumulative gross of ₦224.9 million.
Owambe Thieves, directed by Adeoluwa Owu, known for his work on A Tribe Called Judah and Jagun Jagun, tells the story of Cheta and Lola, a young couple struggling to make ends meet during a severe economic downturn in Nigeria. Faced with mounting pressures, the couple makes a desperate choice that draws them into a world of high-stakes crime, betrayal, and moral dilemmas.
The film’s Lagos premiere on April 13 was a vibrant affair, blending red carpet glamour with cultural celebration. Guests arrived in traditional Nigerian attire, including elaborate aso ebi and regal agbadas, turning the event into a real-life “owambe” party that echoed the film’s title.
For Ajao, this box office success marks another milestone in a career that began in 2004. She has become a familiar face in Nollywood, known for her expressive performances in films such as Eniola, Erin Orin, Daramola, The Vendor, and Yeye Alara. As a producer, she previously garnered widespread acclaim for her 2024 fantasy epic Beast of Two Worlds (Ajakaju), which grossed over ₦200 million in cinemas.
“Owambe Thieves is more than just a crime story,” Ajao explained. “It’s a reflection of the pressures and choices many Nigerians face, wrapped in the familiar setting of our vibrant party culture.”
The film, co-produced with Barbara Babarinsa and distributed by FilmOne Entertainment, stands out for its blend of social commentary and entertainment. Despite a crowded field of April releases, Owambe Thieves has secured its place as one of 2025’s most notable Nollywood debuts.
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