The Nigerian film industry is set to break new ground with the highly anticipated premiere of The Artifact – Stones of Fatima, a riveting adventure film produced and directed by Tolu Awobiyi under the banner of LordTanner Studios. Distributed by Nile Entertainment, this historic production—the first true adventure film from Nigeria—will hit cinemas nationwide on March 21, 2025.
With a stellar ensemble cast including Adeoluwa Akintoba as lead, Kunle Remi, Gabriel Afolayan, Bimbo Manuel, Sola Fosudo, Okey Uzoeshi, Wendy Lawal, Sharon Otimi, Debrah Jalmet, Godspower Nwogwugwu, Lord Frank, Mikel John, Callistus Akunaeziri, Ovy Godwin, Miracle Inyanda, and Okey Uzoeshi, the film promises an exhilarating ride through the heart of Nigeria. Shot across seven states—Lagos, Osun, Jos, Kaduna, Benin, Enugu, and Abuja—The Artifact – Stones of Fatima delivers a visually stunning and culturally rich cinematic experience.
The film follows the son of a deceased museum curator and his three friends as they embark on a quest to recover precious stones taken from a stolen artifact. Unbeknownst to them, their journey entangles them in a web of deception involving an ex-senator, an African art recovery agency, and a ruthless international art thief.
For director Tolu Awobiyi, The Artifact – Stones of Fatima is more than just a film—it’s a labour of love. Reflecting on his passion for storytelling, he shared:
“Someone asked me why I make films and wanted to know what drives me to keep telling stories… When I think about it, my why is actually very basic. It is as simple as the joy you derive from a delicious spoon of fruity ice yummy yogurt, or the warmth of the feel of the sun on your face on a beach on a quick getaway… The long and deep belly laughter you catch when you stumble on a funny joke or the fuzzy intimate feeling you get cuddled up to the one you love.”
“I make films because it gives me the opportunity to create these kinds of feelings I want to have, for the people around me. I do it because I love to see the joy it creates for the audience who watch it. I make films because the world is hard, and we need moments of joy to break the drudgery of life.”
This sentiment is woven into every frame of The Artifact – Stones of Fatima, making it a must-watch event for audiences seeking excitement, heart, and a deeper connection to African storytelling. With a unique blend of adventure, suspense, and historical intrigue, The Artifact – Stones of Fatima is set to redefine Nollywood storytelling. Mark your calendars—March 21, 2025—and prepare to experience Nigerian cinema like never before!
