Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde’s Directorial Debut ‘Mother’s Love’ Shatters Records with ₦100M Box Office Milestone

Nollywood royalty has officially conquered a new frontier. Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde’s directorial debut, the gripping drama-thriller Mother’s Love, has officially crossed the ₦100 million mark at the West African box office. Released on March 6, 2026, the film has not only solidified Omotola’s transition from screen icon to master storyteller but has also set a unprecedented precedent for philanthropy in the African film industry.

A Milestone Achievement for ‘Mother’s Love’ Box Office

Crossing the ₦100.8 million threshold is no small feat, especially considering the film’s release timing. The movie hit theaters during the concurrent seasons of Lent and Ramadan, a period typically associated with lower cinema attendance. Despite these challenges, Mother’s Love resonated deeply with audiences, proving that the "Omosexy" brand remains as potent as ever behind the camera as it is in front of it.

Distributor Nile Entertainment confirmed the milestone on April 13, 2026, citing the film’s ability to win hearts across Nigeria and West Africa. The success of the Mother’s Love box office run is a testament to the powerful marketing campaign and the universal appeal of its narrative.

The Story: A Clash of Classes and a Mother's Strength

Mother’s Love tells the evocative story of Adebisi (played by newcomer Noray Nehita), a young woman from an affluent, sheltered household. Her life takes a dramatic turn during her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year when she meets Obaro (Olumide Oworu), a young man from the bustling Makoko waterfront community.

As their relationship bridges the gap between extreme wealth and survival, long-buried family secrets begin to surface. At the heart of the film is Labake—portrayed by Omotola herself—a mother who must find the courage to challenge her husband’s rigid expectations to protect her daughter’s future. The film expertly explores themes of class division, resilience, and the transformative power of a mother’s sacrifice.

Making History: 100% Proceeds to Charity

Perhaps the most talked-about aspect of this project is Omotola’s pledge to donate 100% of the proceeds from the theatrical run to charity. This makes Mother’s Love the first film in African history—and only the fourth globally—to commit all its box office earnings to a humanitarian cause.

The proceeds are being directed to Slum2School Africa, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing education and resources to children in underserved communities like Makoko.

“A thought came to me with unusual force: align your debut with your passion,” Omotola shared during a private screening. “Tonight, Mother’s Love becomes more than a film; it becomes a bridge between storytelling and social transformation.”

The Rise of a New Filmmaker

While Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has spent three decades as one of Nollywood’s most bankable stars, her directorial debut proves she has a distinct vision as a filmmaker. The project, produced under RedHot Concepts, features a stellar supporting cast including Lilian Afegbai, Ifeanyi Kalu, and Nosa Rex.

Before its domestic success, the film generated international buzz at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Pan African Film Festival (PAFF). Critics have praised the film for its technical finesse and its ability to blend high-stakes drama with social commentary.

Why This Matters for Nollywood

Mother’s Love is more than just a successful movie; it’s a blueprint for the future of Nollywood. It demonstrates that veteran actors can successfully pivot into directing while using their platforms for tangible social impact. The ₦100 million milestone is a clear signal to the industry: audiences are hungry for stories that are as meaningful as they are entertaining.

If you haven’t seen it yet, Mother’s Love is still showing in cinemas nationwide. Don't miss the chance to witness this historic moment in Nigerian cinema while contributing to a cause that changes lives.