So you just finished watching the Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti movie and are now curious about Nigerian historical figures? We curated a list of Nigerian biopics you should jump on next.
“Badamasi: Portrait of A General”
If Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti gave you a lesson in history, you might want to put a spin on this 2021 biopic about the former Nigerian Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.
The movie follows his life, how he rose through the ranks in the Nigerian Army despite his humble beginnings. It gives a glimpse into his time as a head of state, featuring the annulment of the June 1993 presidential elections. Enyinna Nwigwe played the titular character, with support from Julius Agwu, Charles Inojie, Okey Bakassi, among others. You can stream it on Prime Video.
“The Herbert Macaulay Affair”
Directed by Imoh Umoren, this 2019 period film set in the 1920s follows the life of renowned Nigerian nationalist, Herbert Macaulay. Like with the Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti movie, you’ll learn about the political activist who played a vital role in the fight for Nigeria’s independence from British colonial rule. William Benson plays the lead role of Macaulay, with Saidi Balogun and Kelechi Udegbe playing supporting roles.
“Amina”
Just like the Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti movie which is about a female historical figure, this 2021 period drama portrays the events that led to the warrior queen Amina of Zazzau (modern day Zaria)’s ascension to the throne of her father’s empire. Lucy Ameh played the titular character. The movie also stars Ali Nuhu, Clarion Chukwura, Usman Tijani, among others. It’s available to stream on Netflix.
“Ayinla”
If you grew up in a Yoruba home or have grandparents who love music, you’ll have heard a song or two from the Apala musician, Ayinla Omowura. In case you don’t know, there’s a movie biopic about the late musician made by legendary filmmaker, Tunde Kelani.
Released in 2021, Ayinla follows the life of the famed Apala musician until his untimely death at the hands of his manager. Lateef Adedimeji plays the titular character with support from Ade Laoye, Kunle Afolayan and Mr Macaroni. It’s available to stream on Netflix.
“Efunsetan Aniwura”
Ever heard stories of the second Iyalode of Ibadan who was also one of the wealthiest women in the Oyo Empire of the 18th century? That woman is Efunsetan Aniwura, and this movie is about her exploits and struggles. Efunsetan became a menace after she lost her husband and only child. She forbade her slaves from getting pregnant or having children, and beheaded those who did.
Directed by Funmi Holder, the 2020 Yoruba biopic stars Iyabo Ogunsola, Kareem Adepoju, Deji Aderemi, among others. It’s available to stream on YouTube.
“93 Days”
Before the COVID pandemic in 2020, there was the Ebola epidemic outbreak of 2014 that resulted in the loss of several lives. All of that was reenacted in the Nollywood movie, 93 Days, which sheds light on the sacrifices made by several health workers to contain the virus after the first Nigerian patient, Patrick Sawyer, was diagnosed.
Directed by Steve Gukas, 93 Days (2016) focuses on the heroic acts of Dr Ameyo Adadevoh, a female physician who played a key role in curbing the spread of the disease. It stars Keppy Ekpeyong, Bimbo Akintola, Danny Glover, among others. It’s available to stream on Prime Video.
“Invasion 1897”
Released in 2014, this Lancelot Imasuen-directed period piece gives a glimpse into the February 1897 invasion of the Benin Kingdom by British forces under the command of Sir Harry Rawson. The movie also follows the story of Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi, the 35th Oba of the ancient empire, and his dethronement. Invasion 1897 portrays how the famous Benin bronze statues were shipped off to European museums.
Mike Omoregbee played the lead role as Ovonramwen, with support from Segun Arinze, Justus Esiri and Paul Obazele. You can stream it on YouTube.
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