Femi Adebayo Announces Free Filmmaking Masterclass
Nollywood actor and filmmaker Femi Adebayo has announced a free three-day filmmaking masterclass through Euphoria 360 Academy, scheduled for 29–31 October 2026 at Euphoria 360 Hub in Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos.
The programme will introduce participants to acting, directing, editing, sound design and film scoring, with industry professionals expected to share practical knowledge. Participation is limited to the first 30 successful applicants.
The hub features production studios, post-production suites, a Dolby Atmos sound facility and a Foley studio, providing facilities for professional film production.
Why it matters: The initiative offers aspiring filmmakers an opportunity to develop practical skills and gain exposure to Nigeria’s growing film industry.
Jeriq Pursues a Global Future for Igbo Rap
Nigerian rapper Jeremiah Chukwuebuka Ani, popularly known as Jeriq, is pursuing a wider international audience for Igbo-language rap, combining indigenous expression with contemporary hip-hop influences.
His 2024 Jeriqhood concert filled the 22,000-capacity Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, demonstrating the strength of his local fan base. His album King was reportedly nominated for Best Rap Album at the forthcoming 18th Headies, while his collaborations include “Oganigwe” with Zlatan.
Jeriq’s music blends Igbo melodies and cultural identity with modern rap sounds, reflecting a wider movement among African artists to take indigenous-language music to global audiences.
Why it matters: His career highlights the commercial and cultural potential of Nigerian music created in indigenous languages.
Big Smart Makes History with AFRIMMA Award
Nigerian entertainment personality Joseph Oche Udeh, professionally known as Big Smart, has won the inaugural AFRIMMA Best Hypeman/MC award at the 2026 edition of the African Muzik Magazine Awards in Dallas, Texas.
Originally from Benue State, Big Smart is the chief executive officer of Finish Media, where he works in talent management and music promotion. His professional activities include work with singer Goya Menor, alongside engagements across Africa, the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe and Dubai.
He was also reported to have received an invitation to the Recording Academy’s Class of 2026.
Why it matters: The recognition brings attention to the role of hypemen and masters of ceremonies in shaping live performances, promoting artists and building entertainment brands.
Agbara Nla: The Return Records a Strong Cinema Opening
Nigerian faith-based film Agbara Nla: The Return has recorded a strong cinema opening, bringing a familiar story to a new generation of moviegoers.
The film draws from a story written by Mike Bamiloye in 1993. The new production is directed by his sons, Damilola and Joshua Bamiloye, produced by Chris Odeh and distributed by Nile Entertainment.
The distributor reported more than ₦71 million in preview revenue and over 12,100 admissions. Subsequent reporting put the combined preview and official opening-period tally at approximately ₦170.59 million from 28,468 admissions for 2–4 October 2026.
International releases in the United States, United Kingdom and Canada were also planned.
Why it matters: The film’s reported performance demonstrates the continued commercial potential of faith-based storytelling and established Nigerian intellectual property in cinemas.
Omoayena and Yinka Odunbaku Share a Story of Love and Sacrifice
After 14 years of marriage and raising three children, Omoayena and Yinka Odunbaku have shared a relationship story shaped by sacrifice, career decisions and the challenge of keeping a family together across countries.
Omoayena’s professional experience includes university teaching, research and development work with UN-Habitat, while Yinka has worked in finance and business. Their family journey involved moving between Nigeria and Kenya as they balanced professional responsibilities with family life.
Yinka relocated from Nigeria to Kenya to keep the family together before returning to Nigeria in 2022. Their children settled in Lagos in 2023, and Omoayena later took unpaid leave to return from Nairobi and reunite with her family.
Why it matters: Their experience highlights the often-unseen decisions couples make to balance professional ambitions, parenting and long-term relationships.
Five African Novels Heading for the Screen
African literature continues to attract screen-industry interest, with five novels reported to be in different stages of adaptation for film and television.
The projects include:
- Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi: The adaptation is directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and scheduled for theatrical and IMAX release on 15 January 2027. Its reported cast includes Thuso Mbedu, Amandla Stenberg, Damson Idris, Viola Davis, Idris Elba and Chiwetel Ejiofor.
- The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives by Lola Shoneyin: EbonyLife Films and partners are developing a feature-film adaptation directed by Daniel Oriahi.
- Open Water by Caleb Azumah Nelson: The BBC is developing an eight-part drama starring Toheeb Jimoh and Dujonna Gift, with Nelson involved as lead writer and director. It is expected in 2027.
- Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: The novel has been included among Canal+’s African projects in development. A confirmed release date and cast were not specified.
- You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty by Akwaeke Emezi: The project is in development with Amazon Studios and Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society.
Why it matters: These adaptations could introduce more African stories, characters and perspectives to international audiences while creating opportunities across film and television.