Nigerian cinema is approaching a landmark cultural moment as Eleko (Oba Esugbayi), the country’s first full-length historical biopic on colonial Lagos, gears up for its grand entrance into theatres nationwide. The film will hold its official premiere on March 14, 2026, before rolling out to cinemas across the country on March 20 — a release window that strategically coincides with the Eid El Fitr and Easter holiday season.
The project, produced under the Jide Kosoko Film Presentation banner, centers on the life of Oba Esugbayi Eleko, a revered Lagos monarch whose reign became a symbol of dignity and defiance against colonial rule. Through careful period recreation and layered storytelling, the film traces how the Oba stood firm against colonial authority while safeguarding the sovereignty, customs, and identity of the Lagos people.
Beyond the royal court, the narrative also shines a light on nationalist figures who shaped modern Lagos, among them Herbert Macaulay, Chief Oluwa, and women’s rights activist Alimotu Pelewura, whose stories are brought to the screen for a new generation of audiences.
Producer Prince Jide Kosoko leads an extensive cast of Nigerian screen veterans and contemporary stars, including Femi Branch, Sola Kosoko, Femi Adebayo, Saidi Balogun, Dele Odule, Yinka Quadri, Rotimi Fakunle, Yemi Solade, Alaba Ultimate, the late Allwell Ademola, Bidemi Kosoko, Yomi Fash-Lanso, Adebayo Salami, Jumoke Odetola, Broda Shaggi, and others.
The film is co-directed by Adebayo Tijani, Tunde Olaoye, and Tunde Kosoko. Kosoko has described the production not merely as entertainment but as a cultural mission — one that uses cinematic scale and historical depth to reconnect audiences with the traditions, resistance, and resilience that forged the identity of Lagos.
Eleko (Oba Esugbayi) arrives in cinemas March 20, 2026.
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