According to Businessday NG, the romantic film Love and New Notes has set a historic benchmark for Nollywood by grossing N106 million during its opening weekend. This milestone is particularly significant as it marks the first time a Nigerian film has crossed the N100 million mark outside the traditional December holiday window.
The film, which features Timini Egbuson as a charismatic music executive and Ifeoma Daniels as a struggling songwriter, capitalized on the Valentine’s Day rush. Cinema halls across Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt reported packed screenings, driven by a high-octane social media marketing campaign and Egbuson’s massive “box office king” appeal.
Industry analysts suggest that the success of this February release signals a shift in Nigerian cinema-going culture, proving that well-timed, genre-specific films can thrive year-round. The production’s stylish cinematography and the leads’ chemistry have become major talking points on TikTok and Instagram.
Director Kayode Kasum expressed his gratitude on social media, noting that the audience didn’t just show up, they “kicked the door down” for the industry. This performance places the film at the top of the 2026 charts and reinforces the growing commercial viability of the Nigerian theatrical market.
* Kayode Kasum (Director) via Instagram: “Love and New Notes opens with N106M, breaking multiple records in just one weekend. This was only possible because of you.”
* Vanguard News: “The debate signals a defining moment… confirming that strategic release timing and targeted marketing can mobilize massive investment into African creative assets.”
Echotitbits Take
This is a massive win for Timini Egbuson, cementing his status as Nollywood’s most bankable leading man. By proving that a non-December release can hit nine figures, the film effectively opens up the calendar for other producers. Watch for more “event-style” releases to target holidays like Easter and Eid later this year.
Source: Businessday NG — https://businessday.ng/life-arts/article/love-and-new-notes-becomes-nollywoods-biggest-2026-opening-weekend-film/ February 20, 2026
Photo Credit: NollyCritic
