By: Tijani Salako.
The Guinness World Records has officially recognised Nollywood’s Black Market as the new record holder for the largest attendance at a film screening, with more than 51,000 viewers.
The feat was achieved on Saturday at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos Island, surpassing the previous record of 43,624 attendees set in 2015 during the screening of Felix Manalo in the Philippines.
The announcement sparked wild celebrations, loud cheers and fireworks as thousands of movie enthusiasts witnessed the historic moment at the venue.
The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture hosted the premiere of Black Market, produced by filmmaker Nora Awolowo, as part of efforts to promote the state’s creative and entertainment industry and position Lagos as a leading hub for film and entertainment.
Before the official announcement, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, commended the massive turnout, saying Nigeria is home to enormous creative talent. He said the government’s responsibility is to provide the enabling infrastructure that will allow the entertainment industry to thrive and create opportunities for young people.
Speaking with journalists at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, described the massive turnout as a reflection of the spirit of Lagos and the state’s thriving entertainment culture.
Oyekan-Ismaila said the gathering of more than 50,000 people was beyond setting a record, noting that it demonstrated Lagos’ welcoming nature and its position as Nigeria’s entertainment and creative capital.
She said the state government remains committed to partnering with young creatives and supporting initiatives that provide opportunities for talents to thrive through the creative industry.
The Permanent Secretary added that Lagos is open to visitors throughout the year, stressing that the state’s tourism and entertainment calendar is not limited to the Detty December season.
“We have already started in September. Lagos is ready all year round for entertainment, tourism and fun. We have security, a welcoming environment and everything visitors need to enjoy the Lagos experience,” she said.
Directed by Fatimah Binta Gimsay, Black Market features Lateef Adedimeji, Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman, Omowunmi Dada, Scarlet Gomez, Itele D-Icon, Susan Pwajok and Uzor Arukwe, among other Nollywood stars.
The atmosphere at the venue reflected the Lagos State Government’s continued investment in the creative industry, with thousands of movie lovers, filmmakers, entertainers and art enthusiasts gathering for the historic premiere.
As early as 1:00 p.m., large crowds had filled the venue in anticipation of the screening and the Guinness World Records attempt, while accreditation commenced by 2:00 p.m. as officials began documenting audience participation. Security personnel were stationed at all entry points to ensure safety and orderliness.
By about 3:40 p.m., attendees had settled into their seats as excitement continued to build, while media practitioners moved around the venue capturing memorable moments ahead of the screening.
At about 4:45 p.m., thousands more art and culture enthusiasts streamed into Tafawa Balewa Square in colourful outfits, creating a vibrant festival-like atmosphere that reflected the growing excitement ahead of the festive Detty December season.
Many attendees described the event as an opportunity to network, connect with other creatives and explore the entertainment ecosystem, while several vendors showcased a wide range of products and services around the venue.
