Walt Disney Co.’s Moana 2 generated an impressive N106.4 million in ticket sales across cinemas in Nigeria over the weekend, according to data released by the Nigerian Box Office on Monday, December 2, 2024.
The film not only shattered records but also delivered the third-largest weekend box office performance of the year in the region.
The sequel debuted with N12.4 million in advanced screenings across 37 locations in Nigeria, setting the tone for a strong opening.
Originally conceived as a Disney+ series, Moana 2 was reimagined as a theatrical release following Disney CEO Bob Iger’s decision to expand the project’s scope.
The gamble is paying off, as the film is poised for an extraordinary holiday season, with Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King set to follow in December.
Since the launch of Disney+ in 2019, the original Moana has consistently ranked among the most-watched titles on streaming platforms, bolstered by its memorable songs, vibrant island setting, and strong female protagonist. These elements resonated particularly with families during the pandemic lockdowns.
“In today’s post-pandemic market, achieving a breakout hit requires capturing the multicultural audience,” said Tony Chambers, Disney’s executive vice president of theatrical distribution. He noted that Moana 2 succeeded in appealing to families, women, and a diverse audience demographic.
Disney supported the release with a robust marketing campaign, including a full merchandise line, themed character appearances at Disney parks, and a high-profile premiere in Hawaii. Leading up to the sequel’s debut, both the original Moana film and a promotional video ranked as the most-watched programs on Disney+.