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Funke Akindele’s Behind The Scenes Hits ₦2.721 Billion and Sets All-Time Admissions Record

Nollywood has witnessed yet another historic milestone as Funke Akindele’s blockbuster Behind The Scenes shatters records to become the title with the highest cinema admissions of all time in West Africa, grossing an extraordinary ₦2.721 billion at the box office.

With this achievement, Behind The Scenes officially cements its place as the biggest Nollywood title ever, powered purely by audience turnout, repeat viewings, and overwhelming public support.

This moment goes beyond numbers.

It represents Nigerian storytelling traveling further across borders. It reflects an industry growing louder, stronger, and more confident on the global stage. Most importantly, it highlights the unwavering loyalty of cinema audiences who continue to show up, rewatch, and amplify local films.

Every ticket purchased, every social media shout-out, and every packed cinema hall has contributed to this defining chapter in Nollywood history.

Funke Akindele, who has consistently dominated the box office over the years, continues to prove that her success is not accidental. It is built on trust, quality storytelling, and an unmatched connection with audiences.

Behind The Scenes is still showing in cinemas nationwide and is currently screening internationally in the UK, Ireland, USA, and Canada, further reinforcing Nollywood’s growing global footprint.

Congratulations to Funke Akindele and the entire team behind this landmark achievement. History has been made again.

Congratulations to Toyin Abraham on ₦1.165 Billion Box Office Triumph

Nollywood powerhouse Toyin Abraham is celebrating a major box office triumph as Oversabi Aunty officially surpasses ₦1.165 billion, with earnings still climbing.

The achievement places the film among the highest-grossing Nollywood titles of all time, reinforcing Toyin Abraham’s reputation as one of the industry’s most resilient and commercially consistent forces.

Described by fans as a moment powered by “world-class energy,” the film’s success reflects more than ticket sales. It represents audience loyalty, cultural impact, and the unstoppable strength behind Toyin Abraham’s brand.

From record-breaking momentum to sustained cinema runs, Oversabi Aunty continues to demonstrate that strong storytelling, strategic promotion, and deep audience connection remain the true drivers of box office success.

The film is currently still showing in cinemas nationwide and screening internationally in the UK, USA, and Canada, extending its reach beyond West Africa and amplifying Nigerian cinema on a global stage.

With this milestone, Toyin Abraham once again proves that resilience, consistency, and unwavering belief in her craft can translate into billion-naira results.

Congratulations to Toyin Abraham and the entire team behind Oversabi Aunty on this remarkable

Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde Chooses Gen Z Over Interviews at Mother’s Love Premiere, Proving Why She Remains Nollywood Royalty

Nollywood icon Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde delivered more than just glamour at the premiere of her directorial project, Mother’s Love. She delivered a moment.

At the star-studded event, which drew dignitaries, industry leaders, and notable personalities, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. The red carpet sparkled, cameras flashed nonstop, and the anticipation around the film was palpable.

But what truly caught attention was Omotola’s decision to temporarily decline interviews in order to connect directly with her younger audience.

In a now-viral clip circulating on X, the celebrated actress was heard saying, “I can’t have interviews now, I’m having vibes with my Gen Z fans.”

The statement instantly resonated online.

Rather than rushing through press obligations, Omotola chose to prioritize intentional engagement with the next generation of movie lovers. It was a move that reminded many why she has remained relevant for over three decades. Her ability to evolve, connect, and bridge generational gaps continues to set her apart.

Mother’s Love is positioned as more than just a film. It represents a cross-generational narrative, blending maternal wisdom with contemporary themes that resonate strongly with younger audiences.

From emotional family moments to grand arrivals, the premiere reflected class, culture, and legacy. Yet the defining image of the night was Omotola surrounded by excited young fans, choosing connection over cameras.

Mother’s Love is set to hit cinemas nationwide on March 6, 2026, and following the buzz generated at the premiere, anticipation is already building across social media.

Once again, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde proves that longevity in Nollywood is not just about past success. It is about understanding the moment and knowing exactly who to stand with when it matters.

Dede Ashiogwu Redefines Traditional Asooke With Modern Confidence at Mothers of Chibok Premiere

Brand influencer and fashion trendsetter Dede Ashiogwu turned heads at the Mothers of Chibok documentary premiere in Lagos, delivering a striking fashion moment that spoke as loudly as the film’s powerful message.

Stepping out in a mint green asooke co-ord that fused modern edge with traditional elegance, Ashiogwu reminded industry watchers why she is steadily becoming one of the most talked-about fashion voices of her generation. Her look — textured, bold, and intentional — set the tone for an evening dedicated to amplifying one of Nigeria’s most important stories.

Sharing her perspective on the event, Dede captioned her post: “Less perfection, more authenticity.” The message quickly resonated with followers, who praised her for embracing genuine self-expression in a space often dominated by curated perfection.

More than just a red carpet appearance, Ashiogwu’s presence underscored her growing influence as a style curator who understands how to align fashion with meaning. She did not just show up. She made a statement.

Directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Joel “Kachi” Benson and executively produced by Joke Silva, Mothers of Chibok highlights the resilience and hope of mothers affected by the 2014 Chibok girls’ abduction and is currently screening in cinemas across Nigeria and Ghana.

Dede Ashiogwu’s decision to champion authenticity over perfection reflects a broader shift among modern influencers who are redefining cultural presence through intention, identity, and purpose

 

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Ranks Africa Concludes RADISA 2026 Winner Announcements

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Ranks Africa proudly unveils five distinguished winners under the Ranks Africa Digital Standout Awards (RADISA 2026), recognising exceptional individuals and platforms whose influence shaped Africa’s digital landscape throughout 2025.

The awards, presented under the broader Ranks Awards initiative, celebrate impact across digital culture, entrepreneurship, community building, philanthropy, and creative storytelling. Winners were determined through a structured evaluation process incorporating survey insights, committee review, and jury assessment to ensure credibility, relevance, and measurable influence.

Below are the honorees and the impact that defined their 2025 journey.


🏆 Digital Philanthropy Personality of the Year 2025

Adebayo Bayuz TV

Adebayo Bayuz TV is recognised for transforming digital influence into tangible community impact. Throughout 2025, his platform consistently extended beyond content creation into humanitarian support, charitable interventions, and visible acts of generosity.

By leveraging audience reach for meaningful outreach, Adebayo Bayuz TV exemplified how digital platforms can serve as powerful vehicles for philanthropy. His work demonstrates that influence, when responsibly applied, can drive measurable change within communities.


🏆 Digital Community Builder of the Year 2025

Mimi Ojieh

Mimi Ojieh is honoured for cultivating one of the most engaged and loyal digital communities of 2025. Her platform reflects consistent interaction, authentic connection, and sustained audience participation.

Rather than simply accumulating followers, Mimi built a network grounded in dialogue and relatability. Her ability to maintain visibility while strengthening audience trust highlights the growing importance of community-led influence in Africa’s digital ecosystem.


🏆 Cultural Impact Personality (Digital) of the Year 2025

Princess Adesile Ajigboteso

Princess Adesile Ajigboteso is recognised for shaping digital conversations and influencing cultural narratives across platforms throughout 2025.

Her presence consistently generated engagement, sparked discourse, and contributed to broader conversations around identity, lifestyle, and public expression. By maintaining relevance across evolving digital trends, she emerged as one of the defining cultural voices within the online space.


🏆 Podcast / Interview Series of the Year 2025

Legally Clueless Africa

Legally Clueless Africa receives this honour for delivering compelling and authentic storytelling that amplified African voices across borders.

Throughout 2025, the platform continued to provide thoughtful, in-depth conversations that resonated strongly with listeners seeking relatable and meaningful dialogue. Its sustained audience growth and cultural resonance reinforce its status as a leading digital conversation hub on the continent.


🏆 Wellness and Lifestyle Creator of the Year 2025

Dejoke Ogunbiyi

Dejoke Ogunbiyi is recognised for promoting wellness, intentional living, and lifestyle balance through consistent and impactful digital storytelling.

In 2025, her content resonated deeply with audiences navigating personal growth and self-awareness. By blending relatability with purposeful messaging, she strengthened her position as a trusted voice within the wellness and lifestyle space.


TikTok Creator of the Year 2025

Fanuel John Masamaki

Fanuel John Masamaki is recognised for dominating short-form digital storytelling in 2025. Through creativity, trend-setting content, and consistent engagement, he leveraged TikTok as a powerful platform for influence and entertainment.

His ability to convert viral moments into sustained audience growth reflects a clear understanding of digital culture dynamics. Throughout the year, Fanuel’s content remained visible, shareable, and culturally resonant, reinforcing his leadership within Africa’s evolving creator economy.


🏆 Education & Knowledge Creator of the Year 2025

Kobe Boujee

Kobe Boujee receives this recognition for blending knowledge sharing with digital engagement in a way that resonates with younger audiences.

In 2025, his platform consistently delivered informative, awareness-driven content that sparked learning and conversation. By using relatable communication styles to simplify complex topics, he strengthened the role of digital platforms as tools for education and public awareness.


🏆 Online Influencer of the Year 2025

Azeezah Hashim

Azeezah Hashim is honoured for sustained digital relevance and influence across platforms throughout 2025.

Her presence consistently shaped lifestyle, fashion, and youth-driven conversations online. Through brand partnerships, audience engagement, and strong visual storytelling, she demonstrated how digital visibility can be strategically managed to maintain both cultural and commercial impact.


🏆 Breakout Influencer of the Year 2025

Ash-ley Ogle

Ash-ley Ogle is recognised for experiencing one of the most significant digital growth surges of 2025.

Following heightened public visibility, she translated momentum into sustained online presence, maintaining engagement and expanding her influence beyond initial exposure. Her trajectory reflects the power of timing, adaptability, and strategic digital positioning in today’s media landscape.


🏆 Emerging Influencer of the Year 2025

Faith Adewale

Faith Adewale is celebrated as one of the most promising rising digital voices of 2025.

His growth throughout the year reflected increasing audience traction, consistent visibility, and expanding brand relevance. By navigating public attention with strategic engagement, Faith positioned himself as a new-generation influencer with long-term potential within Africa’s digital ecosystem.


🏆 Social Impact Creator of the Year 2025

Wawira Njiru

Wawira Njiru is honoured for leveraging digital platforms to amplify social advocacy and community-focused initiatives.

In 2025, her work demonstrated that influence can extend beyond content into purpose-driven action. By aligning visibility with impact-oriented messaging, she reinforced the role of digital creators as catalysts for social change across the continent.

🏆 Digital Entrepreneur of the Year 2025

Ife Durosinmi-Etti

Ife Durosinmi-Etti is recognised for her leadership in digital entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.

As Founder and CEO of Herconomy, she continues to build a financial technology platform dedicated to expanding access to funding, grants, and resources for women across Africa. In 2025, her work further strengthened digital-driven economic inclusion, reinforcing her position as one of the continent’s leading mission-driven entrepreneurs.


🏆 Content Creator of the Year 2025

Richard Frimpong

Richard Frimpong is honoured for consistent creativity and strong digital storytelling throughout 2025.

His content demonstrated originality, audience engagement, and sustained platform growth. By maintaining visibility and adaptability across evolving trends, Richard solidified his position as one of the year’s most impactful digital creators.


🏆 Online Community (Fanbase) of the Year 2025

Faith Adewale Fanbase (Faithfuls)

The Faithfuls are recognised for coordinated mobilisation, loyalty, and year-long digital presence.

In 2025, this community consistently amplified their preferred personality through organised engagement, trending conversations, and sustained support across platforms. Their ability to influence digital discourse reflects the growing power of structured fan communities within modern entertainment culture.


🏆 Breakout Digital Star of the Year 2025

Sweet Guluva

Sweet Guluva is celebrated for a year marked by accelerated growth and sustained digital relevance.

His ability to convert visibility into continued engagement positioned him as one of the fastest-rising digital personalities of 2025. Beyond initial momentum, he maintained consistency, strengthening his recognition across online audiences.


🏆 Most Talked-About Personality of the Year 2025

Imisi Ayanwale

Imisi Ayanwale receives this recognition for dominating online conversations throughout 2025.

From reality television visibility to sustained social media discourse, her name consistently trended across timelines and discussion spaces. Whether through debate, admiration, or commentary, her presence shaped digital culture conversations in a defining way.


🏆 Digital Personality of the Year 2025

Priscilla Ojo

Priscilla Ojo is honoured for sustained digital dominance and cross-platform cultural influence.

Throughout 2025, her visibility extended across fashion, lifestyle, entertainment, and youth culture conversations. By maintaining consistent engagement and brand relevance, she reinforced her position as one of Africa’s most recognisable and influential digital personalities.

Celebrating Africa’s Evolving Digital Landscape

The RADISA 2026 winners represent more than popularity metrics. They embody the expanding power of digital platforms to shape culture, build communities, drive social good, and influence lifestyle conversations across Africa.

As Ranks Africa continues to spotlight excellence across industries, the Digital Standout Awards reaffirm the growing importance of credible digital leadership in shaping the continent’s global narrative.

Physical plaques will be available for interested honorees following official documentation.

For further updates on RADISA 2026 and upcoming categories, visit Ranks Africa’s official platforms.

The Black Book Returns: Global Hit Secures High-Profile Backing for Explosive Sequel “Old Scores”

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The Black Book is officially set to return with a sequel following its remarkable global run on Netflix, where it surpassed 20 million views and emerged as one of the most watched African titles on the platform. The follow-up, titled The Black Book 2: Old Scores, signals a significant expansion of the franchise both in scale and international collaboration.

The sequel brings on board Nicholas Weinstock, the Emmy-nominated producer known for his work on the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series Severance. His involvement introduces strong global production pedigree to the project and reinforces the growing cross-continental partnerships shaping contemporary African cinema. Weinstock joins returning director Editi Effiong, whose original film blended political tension, moral reckoning, and grounded action to wide audience appeal.

The first installment established a compelling narrative anchored in themes of justice, corruption, and personal sacrifice. Its performance on Netflix demonstrated that African action thrillers can command mainstream international attention without compromising cultural authenticity. The sequel is expected to deepen that narrative universe, expanding character arcs while maintaining the disciplined storytelling and emotional weight that defined the original.

Industry observers view this collaboration as more than a continuation of a successful title. It represents a strategic evolution in African filmmaking, where locally rooted stories are produced with global standards of development, financing, and distribution. The objective is clear: to position African cinema not as a niche category, but as a competitive force within the global content ecosystem.

With production momentum building, Old Scores is poised to deliver heightened stakes, refined execution, and broader market reach. For audiences, it promises a return to a world that resonated deeply. For the industry, it stands as another marker of Africa’s expanding cinematic footprint.

Why Liyema Pantsi Is the Big Brother Mzansi Season 6 Housemate Everyone Is Talking About

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In every Big Brother season, there is always that one housemate whose presence feels essential, the one who shifts the energy, fuels conversations, and keeps the audience emotionally invested. In Big Brother Mzansi Season 6, that housemate is Liyema Pantsi, popularly known as Liema.

Coming back into the house was not a gamble for Liyema Pantsi. It was a calculated return. A bold move by someone who understands the psychology of reality television and the weight of unfinished business. Liema did not step back into the game to play safe. She came back stronger, sharper, and fully aware of what the show demands.

Beyond reality television, Liyema Pantsi is a creative powerhouse. As a musician, entertainer, and influencer, she brings more than personality. She brings range. Her artistic background adds depth to her character, making her presence dynamic. She understands performance, branding, and audience engagement. That multi dimensional quality makes her compelling to watch and difficult to ignore.

From the first few weeks, she made it clear she is not sitting on the fence, She is not coasting, She is not blending in, She is not avoiding the spotlight. She is serving content back to back.

What makes Liyema Pantsi so vital to this season is her understanding of the point of reality television. Big Brother is not just about existing in the house. It is about impact. It is about creating moments that spark debate, inspire loyalty, and keep viewers talking long after the episode ends. Liema delivers exactly that.

Her presence carries confidence. Her conversations carry intention. Her reactions carry emotion. She has mastered the balance between vulnerability and strength, a rare combination that makes her unpredictable and compelling at the same time. Whether she is navigating alliances, standing firm in her truth, or simply commanding a room with her aura, she ensures that she is never irrelevant.

Liyema Pantsi focus is clear: win the grand prize and finish what she started. She enters this season older, wiser, and more intentional about her gameplay, determined not to repeat past choices and ready to compete strategically.

Based on the Ranks Africa Social Chart, Liyema Pantsi is currently one of the most talked about personalities in Africa this year so far, a daily trending figure whose name consistently appears in weekly conversation metrics. That level of engagement does not happen by accident. It happens because audiences are watching, reacting, debating, and investing in her journey.

Remove Liyema Pantsi from Season 6, and the conversation shifts. The debates soften. The online engagement drops. The storyline loses one of its strongest pillars. She is not simply part of the season. She is shaping it.

That is why Liyema Pantsi is the Big Brother Mzansi Season 6 housemate everyone is talking about. Not by accident. Not by hype alone. But by impact, consistency, and undeniable presence.

This is not just a redemption arc. This is a dominance arc.

Liyema Pantsi returned understanding the stakes. She returned knowing that second chances are rare. And instead of shrinking under expectation, she expanded. She stepped into her power and reminded viewers why her presence matters.

In a season filled with personalities, she remains central to the narrative.

And for Liyema Pantsi, the flowers are deserved right now.

One of the best things to happen to Big Brother Mzansi Season 6 is undeniably Thandeka Tshabalala.

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From the moment she stepped into the house, she brought the exact energy a reality show needs — presence, personality, depth, and unpredictability. Thandeka is not just another housemate blending into the background; she is a character built to carry a season. The kind of personality that keeps conversations alive long after the episode ends.

She gives the show that strong, authentic vibe — a woman who stands firmly in her truth. Even when misunderstood or misjudged, she doesn’t shrink. She understands that Big Brother is a psychological and social game, and she plays it with awareness. She knows when to speak, when to observe, and when to take a stand. That balance is rare.

What makes her even more important to Season 6 is her content value. She is serving moments — from layered conversations to strategic positioning and bold reactions. She brings intelligence, cultural depth, and confidence into the house dynamic. And in just a few weeks, she has already built a committed fanbase across social media platforms.

A Strong, Unapologetic Presence

Thandeka’s confidence has also sparked debate. Some viewers admire her directness and composure; others question her approach. But here’s the truth about reality television — relevance equals power. The fact that she consistently generates discussion shows that she matters. She is not invisible. She is not background noise. She is central to the evolving dynamics of the house.

Her cultural depth, self-assurance, and calm demeanor bring a different layer to the season. She isn’t chasing validation; she’s playing for impact. That level of self-awareness resonates strongly with audiences who appreciate substance over spectacle.

Why Thandeka Is Important to Season 6

Every Big Brother season needs certain archetypes — the entertainer, the romantic, the instigator, the peacemaker. Thandeka fills the role of the strategist. She is the thinker in a house full of talkers. The observer in a house full of reactors.

Her presence elevates the competitive atmosphere. She forces others to rethink their approach because she is unpredictable in a calculated way. That unpredictability is not chaos — it’s control.

As Season 6 unfolds, one thing is clear: Thandeka Tshabalala is not just a contestant. She is a stabilizing force, a conversation starter, and potentially one of the most dangerous players in the house.

And in Big Brother, being underestimated is often the greatest advantage of all.

According to Ranks Africa Social Chart weekly conversations, Thandeka is currently one of the most talked-about reality personalities in Africa this season — proof that her impact goes beyond the house walls.

Season 6 needed a strong female force. It needed someone who could hold tension, drive narrative, and command attention without forcing it. Thandeka Tshabalala is doing exactly that.

And if the season continues on this trajectory, her name will remain central to the story of Big Brother Mzansi 6.

KAP Group and Republic of Benin Sign Historic MoU to Advance Pan-African Film Collaboration

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In a significant development for African cinema, Kunle Afolayan’s KAP Group has formally entered into a strategic partnership with the Republic of Benin. The collaboration was sealed through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in Lagos, marking a new phase in cross-border creative cooperation between the two West African neighbours.

The agreement follows a high-level invitation from the Beninese Presidency to establish a structured partnership aimed at transforming the audio-visual and film production landscape in the region. The signing ceremony took place at the KAP Hub in Lagos, the Group’s flagship creative centre and administrative headquarters, underscoring KAP’s expanding continental footprint.

Prior to the formalisation of the agreement, Kunle Afolayan and ‘Seun Soyinka, Executive Director of KAP Group, led a senior management delegation to Benin Republic. The visit involved consultations with government officials and sector stakeholders, focusing on long-term frameworks to strengthen local content production, develop technical capacity, and position Benin as an emerging centre for film and creative enterprise.

The Beninese government delegation that travelled to Lagos for the signing included Sinatou Saka, Special Adviser to the President for Media and Audiovisual Affairs; Coline-Lee Toumson-Venite, Special Adviser for Arts and Culture; Bassirou Ndiaye, Chief Executive Officer of SOPA S.A.; Faissol Gnonlonfin, Director of Cinema and Performing Arts at the Agency for the Development of Arts and Culture; and Meto Adoglo, Programme Manager for Storytelling at Sèmè City. The host team was led by Kunle Afolayan alongside Professor Tunji Azeez, Head of School at the KAP Film and Television Academy.

The partnership rests on three core pillars. First is structured co-production of films that reflect authentic African narratives while expanding their global reach. Second is youth training across all levels of filmmaking and creative production, drawing on the institutional capacity of the KAP Film and Television Academy. Third is the development and operation of a world-class Film City in Ouidah, Benin, designed to serve as an integrated hub for production, education, and cultural tourism.

Each pillar leverages existing KAP subsidiaries, including KAP Motion Pictures, the KAP Film and Television Academy, and the KAP Film Village and Resort in Igbojaye-Komu, Oyo State. The visiting delegation is scheduled to tour these facilities as part of a four-day programme, examining operational models that could be adapted within Benin’s creative infrastructure.

For KAP Group, the agreement represents more than a bilateral arrangement. It reflects a broader commitment to building sustainable African creative ecosystems anchored in infrastructure, skills transfer, and cultural ownership. For Benin Republic, the collaboration offers a structured pathway to strengthen its domestic film sector while integrating into a larger regional network.

Speaking on the partnership, Kunle Afolayan described it as a defining moment for African cinema, where leadership, culture, and enterprise converge to project African stories with authority and clarity. Sinatou Saka also welcomed the development, emphasising the importance of capacity building and institutional collaboration.

Both parties have characterised the MoU as the foundation of a long-term alliance aimed at elevating production standards, strengthening creative education, and advancing Africa’s cultural presence on the global stage.

As African cinema continues to evolve beyond national boundaries, this partnership signals a deliberate move toward structured Pan-African cooperation, with shared investment in talent, infrastructure, and storytelling.

Femi Branch Takes the Crown as Eleko in Jide Kosoko’s Historic Epic, in Cinemas March 20

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Veteran actor Femi Branch has been cast in the lead role of Eleko in the forthcoming historical epic Eleko, directed by Jide Kosoko. The film, which explores the life and legacy of Oba Esugbayi, is scheduled for nationwide cinema release on March 20.

The production centers on the turbulent reign of Oba Esugbayi Eleko, one of Lagos’ most consequential monarchs during the colonial era. His rule was marked by political tension, resistance to British interference, and a defining struggle over authority and tradition. By focusing on this period, the film seeks to revisit a chapter of Yoruba history that continues to shape conversations about leadership and sovereignty.

Femi Branch’s casting signals a performance-driven approach to the project. Known for his command of language and presence on screen, Branch brings gravitas to roles that require emotional depth and historical weight. His portrayal of Eleko is expected to balance royal authority with the personal cost of political conflict.

Jide Kosoko, who directs the film, is himself a respected figure in Nigerian theatre and cinema. His involvement lends cultural credibility to the production, particularly given the historical and traditional themes at its core. The project reflects a continued interest within Nollywood in period storytelling and heritage-driven narratives.

Eleko arrives at a time when Nigerian audiences have shown renewed appetite for indigenous historical epics. With its focus on monarchy, colonial confrontation, and the politics of identity, the film is positioned as both entertainment and cultural reflection.

Eleko opens in cinemas nationwide on March 20.