The city of Lagos stood still on the evening of June 1, 2025, as one of Nollywood’s most anticipated films of the year, Iyalode, premiered in grand fashion. At the helm was none other than the powerhouse herself, Toyin Abraham, who brought to life a story that weaves cultural heritage, female leadership, and social commentary into a rich cinematic tapestry.
This wasn’t just a film premiere. It was a cultural celebration. A historic moment. A bold declaration of how far Nollywood has come and where it’s headed next.
Held at one of Lagos’ premier cinemas, the red carpet dazzled with the presence of top-tier industry figures and influencers. Madam Florence Itagiwa, Mercy Aigbe, Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, Wale Ojo, Ibrahim Chatta, MC Oluomo and several other dignitaries were among the many high-profile attendees who came out in full regalia to support the film and its trailblazing creator.

To elevate the night further, legendary Fuji singer Pasuma took the stage with a riveting live performance that blended tradition with showbiz flair. His performance ignited the crowd and echoed the cultural depth that Iyalode embodies.
A Story Rooted in Power, Heritage, and Womanhood; At the heart of Iyalode is the story of a formidable woman navigating the complex intersection of tradition, leadership, and societal expectations in a patriarchal world. The film is steeped in Yoruba culture, but its themes are universal, exploring the strength, vulnerability, and resilience of women who carry entire communities on their shoulders.
This is Toyin Abraham’s signature: telling stories that don’t just entertain, but provoke thought, stir emotions, and challenge social norms.
In a bold move that raised industry eyebrows, Abraham revealed she invested nearly ₦1 billion in the production of Iyalode. The result? A visually stunning, emotionally charged, and technically refined film that rivals international standards.

From intricate costume design to powerful dialogue delivery and immersive set designs, Iyalode signals a new era of Nollywood filmmaking, where quality is non-negotiable and cultural authenticity is embraced rather than watered down.
Mark your calendars. Iyalode officially hits cinemas nationwide on June 6, 2025, and already, anticipation is off the charts.
Whether you’re a die-hard Nollywood fan, a lover of Yoruba culture, or someone eager to see a powerful story well told, Iyalode promises to be more than just a movie, it promises to be an experience.

With this project, Toyin Abraham cements her position not just as a successful actress and producer, but as a visionary who understands the responsibility of storytelling. She is setting a new standard, one where African stories are told boldly, richly, and on our own terms.
Iyalode is more than a film.
It’s a tribute to tradition.
It’s a celebration of womanhood.
It’s Nollywood at its most majestic.
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Join the Conversation
Have you watched the trailer yet? What are your expectations for Iyalode? Drop your thoughts in the comments and don’t forget to tag @toyin_abraham when you head to the cinemas!