Lagos: A movie, titled ‘Osamede’, has premiered in Lagos ahead of its Oct. 17 nationwide release. The film, a superhero story, is told entirely in Edo and opened theatrically across Nigeria, the UK, and North America within three weeks.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the film’s Executive Producer, Lilian Olubi, stated that the movie was produced after proving audience demand through 12 successful stage runs. Olubi, who is also a board member of the Nigerian Exchange, mentioned that the film was shot on location in Fugar and Ososo, in Edo, with extensive cultural consultation. The storyline follows a young woman who discovers ancestral powers through a sacred stone.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, attended the Lagos premiere of Osamede, where the film received a standing ovation. The Genesis Cinema screening marked the film’s second standing ovation, with the first taking place at the Oct. 10 premiere in Edo State, set during the 1897 British invasion of the Benin Kingdom. Olubi highlighted the minister’s attendance as a sign of federal recognition of Nigeria’s creative sector as economic infrastructure.
Olubi also noted the potential cultural diplomacy and revenue opportunities films like Osamede represent, especially with over 17 million Nigerians in the diaspora and growing international demand for authentic African narratives. Director James Omokwe, a multiple AMVCA-winning filmmaker, attributed the production’s success to the belief and vision shared by the team, particularly Lilian Olubi’s commitment to bringing the story from stage to screen.
Lead actress Ivie Egboh shared insights into her preparation for the role, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, as she trained extensively with an Edo language coach. William Benson, who plays the film’s antagonist, commended the production environment, contributing to the film’s overall success.