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  • Nollywood isn’t all action and drama; every now and then, it also serves up heartfelt romantic comedies that reflect the unique dating culture in Nigeria. 

    We have carefully curated a list of movies—a mix of modern and classic hits—that explore everything from arranged romances to online matchmaking. Set in Lagos high-rises and small-town homes alike, each movie portrays Nigerian love with warmth and a sprinkle of social insight.

    Here is a list of ten movies that capture the realities of dating in Nigeria: 

    1. Phone Swap (2012)

    Director: Kunle Afolayan

    Running time: 1h 57m

    Genre: Romance

    When a buttoned-down Lagos executive (Wale Ojo) and a free-spirited fashion designer (Nse Ikpe-Etim) literally trade smartphones after a fender-bender, their worlds collide in unexpected ways. 

    The two end up on each other’s flights and events, muddling through messages and dates meant for the other. What starts as a case of mixed-up technology blossoms into romance. 

    Afolayan’s Phone Swap uses the mobile-phone mixup to poke fun at cultural clashes in modern Nigeria, while showing that love can sometimes happen when you literally see the world through someone else’s screen.

    Watch Phone Swap on YouTube. 

    2. The Wedding Party  (2016)

    Director: Kemi Adetiba

    Running time: 1h 40m

    Genre: Romance

    In The Wedding Party, everything that can go wrong at a high-society Lagos wedding does. Dunni (played by Adesua Etomi-Wellington) wants a quiet, beautiful day. Dozie (played by Banky W) just wants to get through it. 

    But with warring mothers (played by Ireti Doyle and Sola Sobowale), a clingy ex, an overambitious planner, and secrets flying faster than champagne corks, the celebration tilts into a far cry from a dreamy wedding for the couple.

    With colourful characters, crisp dialogue, and over-the-top moments, the film offers a perfect insider glimpse at the non-glamorous side of modern Nigerian weddings. 

    Watch Wedding Party on Netflix. 

    3. Isoken (2017)

    Director: Jade Osiberu

    Running time: 1h 38m 

    Genre: Romance 

    In Isoken, 34-year-old Isoken (Dakore Egbuson-Akande) seems to have it all—a successful career and a loving family in Lagos—except the right husband. Under intense pressure from her family to get marry r, she agrees to an arranged marriage with Kevin (Joseph Benjamin), a safe but colourless choice. 

    Then Isoken meets Kelly (Marc Rhys), a charismatic White man who ignites her passion. She finds herself falling for someone completely unexpected. 

    The film brilliantly mixes humour in questioning tradition while celebrating the idea that love can’t be forced, even in a society where family expectations are everything.

    Watch Isoken on YouTube. 

    Don’t miss the first ever Naira Life Conference happening on August 8. Click here to save your seat and be part of the money conversation.

    4. The Royal Hibiscus Hotel  (2017)

    Director: Ishaya Bako

    Running time: 1h 30m
    Genre: Romance

    Ope (Zainab Balogun) is a London-trained chef who abandons her fast life abroad to return home to her parents’ struggling hotel in Lagos. Hoping to blend Nigerian and Western cuisine to save the family business, she finds her plans complicated by a scheming sous-chef, a gossipy staff, and a proud father. 

    Adding spice to the mix, a handsome investor named Deji (Kenneth Okolie) keeps checking into the hotel. 

    The Royal Hibiscus Hotel is a crowd-pleasing romantic comedy in which viewers see Ope’s kitchen dreams and budding romance intersect. Director Ishaya Bako serves a beautiful meal of warmth and laughter as Ope learns to navigate family expectations.

    Watch The Royal Hibiscus Hotel on Netflix. 

    5. Love is War (2019)

    Director: Omoni Oboli

    Running time: 1h 49 m

    Genre: Drama

    Omoni Oboli is both the director and star of this political comedy romance. Love is War offers Nigeria’s first elected female governor. 

    Oboli and RMD play a married couple who stumble into politics and, as a practical joke, challenge each other for their state’s governorship. 

    In no time, their playful rivalry turns fierce. Campaigns become mock battles of one-upmanship, revealing playful jabs from their marriage and proving that, in this contest, love—and ambition—is war. 

    Oboli’s twisty script keeps viewers guessing whether the couple’s union can survive the political mudslinging that ensues. 

    Watch Love is War on Netflix. 

    ALSO READ: 10 of the Best Nollywood Movies of 2025, So Far

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    6. Finding Hubby (2020)

    Director: Femi Ogunsanwo

    Running time: 1h 44m 

    Genre: Romance 

    In Finding Hubby, Oyin Clegg (Ade Laoye) has the job, the looks, and the lifestyle—but in Lagos, being in her 30s and unmarried is still a crisis. Between one-night flings, work drama, and a meddling mother, Oyin’s search for a husband spirals into chaos. Things get even messier when her ex turns rich and petty, her boss gets desperate, and her “perfect” fiancé turns out to be hiding a major secret.

    Finding Hubby hilariously captures the exhausting pressure Nigerian women face to “secure a man” before 40. It’s a juicy exploration of dating politics, gender expectations, and the unexpected heartbreaks that come with chasing happily ever after.

    Watch Finding Hubby on YouTube. 

    7. Namaste Wahala (2020)

    Director: Hamisha Daryani Ahuja

    Running time: 1h 46m

    Genre: Romance 

    Promoted as Nollywood’s first true romance with Bollywood collaboration, this cross-cultural rom-com examines an Indian–Nigerian love affair. Didi (Ini Dima-Okojie) is a Lagos NGO lawyer; Raj (Ruslaan Mumtaz) is an Indian banker in Lagos. 

    Namaste Wahala follows the couple as they fall in love despite their different backgrounds and cultures. Didi’s conservative Nigerian parents expect a local suitor, and Raj’s traditional Indian mother resists the idea of a foreign daughter-in-law. Still, each eventually learns to bridge the gap. 

    Watch Namaste Wahala on Netflix. 

    8. Dinner at My Place (2022)

    Director: Kevin Luther Apaa

    Running time: 1h 43m 

    Genre: Romance

    In Dinner At My place, everything that can go wrong with a proposal goes wrong. A Nigerian-American man (Timini Egbuson) plans to propose to his girlfriend (Uche Montana) over dinner with the $22,000 gold ring his mother left him. But to his surprise, things go awry when his ex (Sophie Alakija)  shows up asking to sleep at his place. 

    Dinner At My Place shows viewers the outcome of a good production. From brilliant casting to the amazing delivery of the actors , the movie is a must watch romantic comedy. 

    Watch Dinner At My Place on Netflix. 

    9. Here Love Lies  (2023)

    Director: Tope Oshin

    Running time: 2h 11m

    Genre: Thriller 

    What looks like a modern love story takes a dark turn in this Netflix thriller. Amanda (Omowunmi Dada) is a Nigerian single mother and travel blogger who hasn’t had much luck with men. When she meets Michael (Tim Shelburne), an American, via social media, sparks fly at first sight. She takes a chance on a seemingly perfect man she meets online. 

    But after Amanda follows him to New York, unexpected secrets emerge. Here Love Lies is an unpredictable thriller set up as a cliché romantic comedy until a shocking twist upends everything.

    Director Tope Oshin, who also co-stars, builds tension with slice-of-life dating scenes that quietly lead to a much darker finale, warning that sometimes “love” found online can hide dangerous lies.

    Watch Here Love Lies on Netflix.

    10. Love in a Pandemic (2023)

    Director: Akay Mason

    Running time: 1h 28m

    Genre: Romance

    Set against Nigeria’s COVID-19 lockdown, this romance film dramatises how two lonely people find each other in isolating times. Nancy Isime plays Bolanle, a Lagos customer-service agent working from home who connects over a call  with Alex (Deyemi Okanlawon). 

    As the world closes off to shield itself from a virus, these two strangers find comfort in each other, opening their hearts to a love strong enough to conquer loneliness and despair.  

    Director Akay Mason weaves pandemic realities into the storyline, showing that even quarantine can’t keep true love from finding a way.

    Watch Love in a Pandemic on Prime Video. 

    ALSO READ: The 10 Best Nollywood Movies That Capture The Essence of Lagos

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  • Nollywood comedies have captured audiences with their humour, relatable characters, and distinctive storytelling. Whether you’re in the mood for lighthearted fun or sharp social commentary wrapped in comedy, these films promise plenty of laughs.

    With Netflix bringing some of the best Nollywood comedies straight to your screen, here are 10 hilarious films you can enjoy right now.

    Kasala (2018)

    Runtime: 1h 24m

    Director: Emamode Edosio

    Tunji (Emeka Nwagbaraocha) takes his uncle’s car for a joyride to a party with his three friends (Mike Folarin, Chimezie Imo, and Tomiwa Tegbe). Their excitement quickly turns into panic when they crash the car in the heat of the moment. With just five hours before Tunji’s uncle (Jide Kosoko) returns from work, they scramble to raise the money needed for repairs — by any means necessary.

    This film delivers a distinctly Nigerian story, blending humour with relatable struggles. At least one in four people will see themselves in it.

    Watch Kasala on Netflix.

    Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons (2018)

    Runtime: 1h 46m

    Director: Toka McBaror

    This film puts a hilarious and cinematic spin on the “Yoruba Demon” stereotype, following four wealthy and charismatic men (Ramsey Nouah, Jim Iyke, Ayo “AY” Makun, and Folarin “Falz” Falana) who move like a modern-day Robin Hood crew. They steal from the rich, give to the poor, and break hearts along the way.

    No capes here, just impeccably tailored agbadas, hilarious antics and a whole lot of charm. And if you’ve never heard Falz speaking in “proper English,” consider this your official introduction.

    Watch Merry Men The Real Yoruba Demons on Netflix.

    My Village People (2021)

    Runtime: 2h 14m

    Director: Niyi Akinmolayan

    Prince (Bovi Ugboma), a reckless womanizer, returns to his village for his sister’s (Venita Akpofure) traditional wedding. While there, he spends the night with a young maiden — who, unbeknownst to him, is a witch and the daughter of the village Dibia (Theresa Edem).

    When he refuses to confess his love to her, he becomes haunted by a spirit wife in his dreams, leading to hilariously awful consequences.

    Watch My Village People on Netflix.

    Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020)

    Runtime: 1h 50m

    Director: Funke Akindele and Abdulrasheed “JJC” Bello

    Two worlds collide when twin sisters — who are nothing alike — meet for the first time. Funke Akindele takes on a dual role, playing Lefty, a fearless ghetto queen and troublemaker, and Ayomide, her polished and sophisticated counterpart.

    Their unexpected reunion forces them to confront their complicated past and work together despite their stark differences. Whether it’s Lefty rolling with her gang or Ayomide trying to maintain her poise in the ghetto, the result is pure comedy gold.

    Watch Omo Ghetto: The Saga on Netflix.

    Passport (2022)

    Runtime: 1h 50m

    Director: Dimeji Ajibola

    In this dramatic comedy, Oscar (Jim Iyke) is robbed on his way to the airport, only to realize his passport is missing — a major problem since he needs it to travel to London. Desperate, he enlists the help of Kopiko (Mercy Johnson), a tough-as-nails tomboy from the slums, to retrieve it.

    Mercy Johnson shines as Kopiko, delivering a memorable performance that leaves no crumbs.

    Watch Passport on Netflix.

    ALSO READ: The 10 Best Nollywood Films to Watch On YouTube (Feb. 2025)

    Prophetess (2021)

    Runtime: 2h 24m

    Director: Niyi Akinmolayan

    Ajoke (Toyin Abraham) is a self-proclaimed prophetess who makes a living by pretending to have supernatural powers. When a wealthy client seeks her spiritual help, she sees it as a golden opportunity to cash in. But what starts as a simple con quickly takes an unexpected turn.

    This film offers a humorous Nigerian take on fake prophets and the path to redemption.

    Watch Prophetess on Netflix.

    The Razz Guy (2021)

    Runtime: 1h 39m

    Director: Udoka Oyeka

    Nigerian superstition takes centre stage in this comedy. Just as an arrogant senior executive (Lasisi Elenu) is assigned to oversee a high-stakes foreign business merger, he falls victim to a curse that leaves him unable to speak properly.

    With a cast featuring comedy heavyweights like MC Lively, Frank Donga, and Broda Shaggi, laughter is guaranteed.

    Watch The Razz Guy on Netflix.

    The Stand Up (2022)

    Runtime: 1h 40m

    Director: Jide Oyegbile

    After Ovie (Paul Olope) loses his father, a local don (Richard Mofe-Damijo) comes knocking, demanding repayment of a ₦2 million debt his late father left behind. As collateral, the don takes Ovie’s sister (Ilekhua Anthonia) hostage.

    Desperate to clear the debt and rescue his sister, Ovie leaves Warri for Lagos in search of greener pastures. He sets out for a “serious job” to make money, but fate has other plans, leading him straight into the world of stand-up comedy. It’s no surprise that a comedy about a stand-up comedian is packed with laughs.

    Watch The Stand Up on Netflix.

    The Vendor (2018)

    Runtime: 1h 42m

    Director: Odunlade Adekola

    Odunlade Adekola stars as a struggling newspaper vendor who constantly laments his unhappy life. But when he lands a better job and discovers that his father (Jide Kosoko) is actually wealthy, he becomes even lazier.

    The Vendor is the story of an unemployed egbon adugbo in his 30s — quick-witted, full of hilarious commentary, and always ready with a funny response to everything around him.

    Watch The Vendor on Netflix.

    Your Excellency (2019)

    Runtime: 2h

    Director: Funke Akindele

    This satirical political comedy follows a wealthy politician, businessman, and failed presidential candidate (Akin Lewis) who is hilariously obsessed with Donald Trump.

    Determined to save his latest campaign from ending in another disaster, he resorts to dancing and other over-the-top antics to win public favour.

    If you think this sounds like a certain Nigerian politician, it’s purely coincidental — it just borrows from the realities of Nigerian politics.

    Watch Your Excellency on Netflix.

    ALSO READ: The 10 Best Nollywood Films to Watch on Netflix (Feb. 2025)

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  • Even though January is almost over, I know you’re probably still trying to settle into the new year—figure out your resolutions, goals and vibe. What better way to do this than with a good dose of Nollywood movies about starting afresh to inspire and motivate you at this time?

    Each movie on this list is packed with drama, valuable gems, and life experiences to help you navigate life, love, and everything in-between.

    See below 10 Nollywood movies to help you settle into 2025:

    Love and Life

    Three women and best friends (Nse Ikpe-Etim, Rita Dominic, and Michelle Dede) navigate life, widowhood, unstable marriages, troubled relationships, and growth together. Life can be tough and crazy, but it’s bearable and better when you have amazing friends to survive with.

    This film is a reminder of that. Stream it on Prime Video.

    Saving Onome

    In Saving Onome, directed by Dimeji Ajibola, a couple (Olumide Oworu and Nancy Isime) run helter-skelter to save their daughter Onome (Mega Geraldine) during a medical emergency. While this film brings to mind that sufficient funds stop a messy situation, it also reminds one that children are the apple of their parents’ eyes.

    This is an enjoyable watch, available on Prime Video.

    Shina

    This film reminds you that Nigerian cab drivers have stories for days. Shina follows the story of a jovial and young Uber driver, Shina (Timini Egbuson), whose life takes an unexpected turn when he agrees to deliver a mysterious package. It’s funny and has the Lagos hustling spirit all over it.

    It’s streaming on Netflix.

    Suspicion

    Though you live in the real world, do you sometimes wish you could be a superhero or avenger? If your answer is yes, you need to live your fantasy through Stan Nze’s character in this Sci-Fi film about a man with supernatural powers seeking revenge for his friend’s murder.

    This film is directed by Tosin Igho, and is streaming on Prime Video.

    The Weekend

    Tension and horror thrive as conflict enters Luke’s (Bucci Franklin) and Nikiya’s (Uzoamaka Aniunoh) relationship. She discovers some of his family’s dark secrets after he takes her to meet his family on a weekend. Although not the kind of weekend you want, this film invites you to shine your eyes well before getting deep into a committed relationship.

    It’s currently streaming on Circuit.

    Ijogbon

    In this Kunle Afolayan film about greed and friendship, four friends (Fawaz Aina, Kayode Ojuolape, Ruby Akubueze, and Oluwaseyi Ebiesuwa) find diamonds. However, the shiny object soon brings trouble to them, and they eventually throw away the precious stones. Does this read like what could happen with you and your friends, or should I face my front?

    Anyway, it’s also streaming on Netflix.

    A Tribe Called Judah

    This Funke Akindele drama featuring Timini Egbuson and Olumide Oworu is about a family coming together to solve their financial situation. If you’re reading this, here’s your cue: call your loved ones and spend some time with them. If not family, what else do we have?

    It’s streaming on Prime Video.

    Passport

    A young man (Jim Iyke) loses his passport and needs a street-smart lady (Mercy Johnson) to help him get it back from her thieving cousin. But she’s in a street battle with her rival (Zubby Michael).

    This Dimeji Ajibola-directed film is streaming on Netflix.

    Strained 

    A mother (Queen Nwokoye) and daughter (Tracey George) slowly get back on good terms after the daughter reluctantly asks her to help care for her newborn.

    Strained is showing on Netflix.

    The One for Sarah

    Sarah (Beverly Naya) begins her journey of self-discovery and healing after enduring trauma from a past relationship. Encouraged by her supportive friend, Lizzy (Bimbo Ademoye), Sarah rediscovers her self-worth.

    It’s showing on Netflix.

    You Should See the 10 Best Nollywood Films to Watch on Prime Video (Jan. 2025) Too

  • This month, we’re shining the spotlight on the best 15 Nollywood films available on Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube.

    From gripping crime dramas like Hotel Labamba to heartwarming dramas like Moms at War, our list of 15 must-watch Nollywood films has something for every movie enthusiast. Whether you’re a longtime Nollywood fan or the Nigerian cinema recently became your thing, this list is the perfect starting point for your next binge-watching run.

    The Order of Things (2022)

    Two brothers plan to get married, but according to their traditional mother, the elder brother must marry first. Timini Egbuson, Obi Maduegbuna and Binta Ayo Mogaji star in this 2022 romantic comedy. It’s streaming on Netflix.

    Love and Life (2024)

    Rita Dominic, Michelle Dede, and Nse Ikpe-Etim star in this drama about a widow, a troubled marriage, and an uncertain relationship. Struggling with their love lives, these three friends support each other. It’s streaming on Prime Video.

    The Beads (2024)

    Zainab Balogun, Shaffy Bello, and Efe Iwara star in this drama about a bride-to-be who’s supposed to die on her wedding day. Hopeful to stay alive, she fights to turn back the hand of time. It’s directed by Moyin Sage and is streaming on Prime Video.

    A Ride to Love (2024)

    Are you in the mood for a romantic film? See this drama about a tech bro who’s slowly getting back on his feet when he finds love again. But his ex comes back with a child, the result of an older pregnancy. The film stars Victory Michael, Omeche Omo and Ngozi Echems. It’s streaming on YouTube.

    Moms at War (2018)

    In this comedy-drama directed by Omoni Oboli, two mothers who live in the same neighbourhood become rivals, and their children compete to be the best in school. Funke Akindele, Sharon Ooja, and Michelle Dede feature in the film, which is on Netflix.

    Hotel Labamba (2023)

    Everybody in a hotel becomes a suspect in a murder case investigation. Bimbo Ademoye and Lateef Adedimeji feature in this film. It’s streaming on Prime Video.

    The Two Aishas (2023)

    Two friends named Aisha have become rivals, and they must end their fights and reconcile their beefing husbands. The film, directed by Iyke Okechukwu, features Rahama Sadau and Maryam Booth in the cast. It is streaming on Prime Video.

    Strained (2023)

    A daughter and mother heal their broken relationship after the daughter was forced to reach out for help for her newborn baby. Tracey George, Queen Nwokoye are cast as actors, and Okechukwu Oku is its director. Streaming on Netflix.

    The Bride (2024)

    An unexpected situation makes two lovers realise that they aren’t compatible with each other. The guy finds love with another lady. Maurice Sam and Teniola Aladese play the lead cast. Showing on YouTube.

    Something Like Gold (2023)

    The father is accused of financial crimes around the wedding of a wealthy family’s daughter. Close friends desert her, and the situation leads to the marriage cancellation. Timini Egbuson, Patrick Doyle, and Teniola Aladese star in this, which is streaming on Netflix.

    HEARTBREAK (2024)

    The relationship of two love birds gets threatened after the boyfriend gets diagnosed with a medical condition. Michael Dappa, Emem Ufot and Inem King are cast in this YouTube film.

    Ewa Aganyin (2024)

    A popular ewa aganyin (mashed beans) seller fights to get out of her toxic relationship, but soon develops affection for her boss. Kiekie, Wumi Toriola, IK Ogbonna star in this Ruth Kadiri film, streaming on YouTube.

    Japa! (2024)

    A Nigerian school teacher seeks greener pastures in the US, but on the day he’s supposed to leave Nigeria, he gets stuck in a time loop. Actors such as Blossom Chukwujekwu, Layi Wasabi, and Seun Ajayi star in this film, which is streaming on Prime Video.

    The One for Sarah (2022)

    After healing from an emotionally abusive relationship, a lady finds herself and falls in love again. This is a film about self-worth. Uzor Arukwe, Beverly Naya and Daniel Etim-Effiong are top cast members. Showing on Netflix. 

    Sparkle (2024)

    In this YouTube drama, two siblings, an interior designer and an artist, clash over differences in lifestyle. One brother has severe OCD, while the other is a bit disorganised. Miwa Olorunfemi, Chike Daniel, and Sonita Fred feature in this film.

  • The cinema holds a special place in our collective Nigerian imagination. It’s where we escape reality, laugh, awww, and sometimes cry. For many of us, our first cinema experience was more than just a movie; it was an event.

    In this article, we asked seven Nigerians to take a trip down memory lane and revisit the first Nigerian movie they saw at the cinema. From peer pressure to hyped film and movie dates, their stories highlight the power of cinema to shape our perceptions, spark conversations, and create lasting memories.

    Lola, 26

    The first Nigerian film I watched at the cinema was The Wedding Party. I have always watched foreign movies in the cinema, but I used to avoid Nigerian films because it wasn’t giving back then.

    It makes sense that I first saw The Wedding Party at the cinema because I love weddings. I like the overall glamour of a Lagos wedding. But the cast of the movie was the selling point for me. They packed many of my favourite Nollywood people into one project. I was already in love with Adesuwa and Somkele and wanted to see them on the big screen. I won’t lie; I loved most of the cast members, so it was an easy choice to make.

    After TWP, I went to see the likes of Merry Men, Chief Daddy, Lost in London, and The Wedding Party 2. I will go to the cinema to see any film I see my faves.

    Francis, 24

    It was 2019 in Ilorin. My friend’s babe wanted to go to the cinema. She brought her friend alongside her and introduced her to me. We all went together. It was around 4 PM, and James Abinibi’s The Call was the only film available for viewing. We watched it, but I didn’t pay attention all through. It wasn’t my type.

    That was my first time at a cinema and also the last time I saw a Nigerian film in a cinema.

    Tonye, 28

    It was Fifty. Everyone was talking about it, and I heard there was a sex scene, so I went to see it. It was worth it. At the time, it was ₦2,500, which was expensive. But I enjoyed the film. It’s a good movie. The production was tight. It’s a modern film. It was different from what was in the cinemas at the time. It convinced me to see more Nollywood productions in the cinema, and I’ve seen a lot since then.

    Folaranmi, 27

    My first time at a cinema, I saw Mami Wata by CJ “Fiery” Obasi in 2023. It was worth my money. Throughout my university years, I avoided the cinema and any discussion that suggested going there. I hated large crowds. Even when I saw Mami Wata, there weren’t a lot of folks in the cinema. So, I totally enjoyed the silence and space, even though it was not like I had them to myself.

    I have gone to see more Nigerian films at the cinema, but dates with babes took me there, to be honest. If not, I’d be binge-watching in my house. If there’s any Nigerian movie that’d motivate me to go willingly to the cinema, it’d be Mami Wata, but unfortunately, it’s not showing in any Nigerian cinema again.

    Adefunke, 24

    It was Ayinla. I love Lateef Adedimeji. I had just met someone at that time, too, and the person was fascinated with the biopic, so I wanted to see what they liked. I heard that there was also going to be some singing in it, which got my interest. I enjoyed the film very much, though people made a lot of noise in the cinema, which disgusted me. That’s why I haven’t been to the cinema since then. I’d rather wait for the film to come out on streaming platforms.

    Mariam, 24

    The one I vividly remember was A Tribe Called Judah in 2023. I went with my mom, brother and nephews and when we got to the cinema, it was crowded AF. We didn’t factor in that it was a festive period, and everyone would be out with their families. When the movie started, I had a great time. The movie was fun, and everyone at the cinema was laughing. It was a feel-good moment.

    I haven’t gone to the cinema since then, though I have no reservations about watching Nollywood there. If I have the luxury of time, I will.

    Korede, 26

    I watched Ayinla in the cinema because I am a Tunde Kelani and Kunle Afolayan cult follower. That day, I had a good time, actually. I went to Ilorin to see friends after uni. Afterwards, I insisted all I wanted to watch was Ayinla. They wanted to watch something else. They had to watch it with me. We all liked it.

    The film producers were decent with the rollout. That was when the Apala music conversation on social media platforms peaked. I was in Abeokuta last month, and I was shown Ayinla’s family house from afar. The movie hit once more.

  • Everyone is talking about Kunle Afolayan’s latest Netflix fim, Aníkúlápó and its lead character, Saro, a man who could raise people from the dead. While being able to stroll into a cemetary to summon folks like Michael Jackson in Thriller sounds cool, we can’t help but think of some more pressing Nigerian problems that could benefit from a little revival here and there. 

    Raise your account from the dead 

    This is the first thing you’ll do the moment Akalo, the mystical bird, gives you the power of resurrection. No time to waste, just an immediate japa from poverty to Dangote-level wealth. The funniest part is you probably won’t tell anybody the source of your wealth before they pour sand inside your Ijebu garri. 

    Become a tech bro 

    Every three market days, some tech company comes on Aki and PawPaw’s internet to inform us they’ve raised millions of dollars in funding, and everyone starts running helter-skelter looking for tech jobs. But with Saro’s powers, you won’t have to apply for a tech job. You could just raise your own dollars yourself and replace the likes of Odunayo Eweniyi and Timi Ajiboye as the happening tech bro. 

    Raise the naira from the trenches 

    Remember when it was ₦150 to $1 and we were complaining and asking for ₦1 to $1? Omo, this is a serious case of “had I known” because the way the naira has fallen into the trenches over the past few years can give someone high BP. What’s the point of reviving your bank account if the naira is still swimming in disgrace? Better wake our national currency so that life can go back to normal for everybody. 

    Raise the national grid every time it collapses

    Aren’t you tired of hearing that the national grid has collapsed every three Eke market days? You’ll be out here making plans and the next thing you know,  the national grid will faint and leave you without power until further notice. Enough is enough. The national grid collapsing wouldn’t be a problem if you had Saro’s powers. Think about it. 

    We also wrote: These 7 Nigerian Legends Would Totally Slap as Superheroes

    Invest in bread 

    If there’s one thing Nigerians must eat, it’s bread. The best thing to do the moment you realise you have Saro’s resurrection powers is to buy the first bakery you see. No jokes. Who needs ovens or yeast when you could look at flour and command it to rise just like that? Less manpower, less equipment, but plenty of profits. Do the maths, dear. 

    Raise your boring love life from the dead

    This is for single people struggling to find romance in this tough rainy season. Imagine having the power to summon your love life from the great beyond and not using it? Just be careful so that love and romance will not land you in hot trouble like Saro sha. 

    Raise your bumbum

    Yes, Victony and Burna Boy both told us that bumbum comes in different sizes, but there’s nothing wrong about wanting a bigger bumbum to intimidate your enemies and the internet. The power of resurrection means raising things up, so if you can raise a dead body up, why can’t you raise your bumbum too? Common sense. 

    Raise Nigeria from the ghetto 

    We don’t even have to do too much explaining when it comes to this one. The proof is in the akamu. If your Saro powers don’t work here, you can join us in putting Nigeria inside raw rice. Hopefully, we can restore our country’s factory settings together.

    Kunle Afolayan’s Anikulapo is currently streaming on Netflix. 

    You can also read: How to Make a Badass Nollywood Action Film, According to “Brotherhood” Scriptwriter, Abdul Tijani-Ahmed