Jide Kosoko’s Epic Film, Eleko (Oba Esugbayi), Draws Applause at Grand Lagos Premiere

It was a night of sparkle, excitement and loud applause in Lagos as Nollywood legends, rising stars and culture enthusiasts gathered for the grand premiere of the highly anticipated historical film ELEKO (Oba Esugbayi) — a production that is already being hailed as a major milestone in Nigerian cinema.

Produced by veteran actor and cultural icon Jide Kosoko, the premiere attracted a dazzling lineup of Nollywood heavyweights who stepped out in style to celebrate the project and honour one of the industry’s most respected figures.
The red carpet came alive with appearances from top stars including Femi Adebayo, Muyiwa Ademola, Iyabo Ojo, Saidi Balogun, Rotimi Salami, Adebayo Salami (Oga Bello), Sola Kosoko, Bidemi Kosoko, Temilade Kosoko, Bayo Tijani, Foluke Daramola, Eniola Ajao, Rose Odika, Kunle Afolayan, Kolawole Ajeyemi, Bolaji Amusan (Latin), Owolabi Ajasa, Jide Awobono and Kamo State, alongside many other prominent actors, directors and key stakeholders in the Nigerian film industry.
From the glittering arrivals on the red carpet to the packed screening hall, the atmosphere was charged with excitement as guests settled in to experience the film’s rich historical narrative and sweeping cinematic presentation.
When the screening ended and the lights came back on, the audience responded with loud applause, praising the film as a gripping and visually impressive production that raises the bar for historical storytelling in Nollywood.
Many attendees described ELEKO (Oba Esugbayi) as a bold cinematic project that reshapes the way Nigerian historical stories are presented on the big screen. They applauded its compelling storyline, powerful performances, authentic cultural representation and attention to historical detail.
Industry observers at the premiere also noted that the film demonstrates the ability of Nigerian filmmakers to combine history, tradition and modern production standards to create stories that resonate with contemporary audiences while preserving the country’s cultural heritage.
At the centre of the project is Prince Jide Kosoko, a revered Nollywood veteran whose career spans several decades across theatre, television and film. Widely regarded as one of the pillars of the Yoruba film industry, Kosoko has long championed the telling of indigenous stories and the preservation of Yoruba history through cinema.ELEKO (Oba Esugbayi) reflects that enduring commitment.The film recounts the remarkable story of Oba Esugbayi Eleko, one of Lagos’ most influential monarchs, whose reign became a defining chapter in the confrontation between traditional authority and colonial rule. Through scenes filled with political intrigue, resistance and cultural pride, the film transports viewers into a pivotal era in the history of Lagos.The historical epic is directed by the accomplished trio of Bayo Tijani, Tunde Olaoye and Tunde Kosoko, whose creative collaboration brings together compelling storytelling, striking visuals and authentic cultural elements.With glowing reactions already pouring in from the premiere audience, expectations are mounting as the film prepares for its nationwide release.Movie lovers across the country will have the chance to experience the historical drama when ELEKO (Oba Esugbayi) opens in cinemas nationwide on March 20, 2026.For Prince Jide Kosoko and the team behind the production, the successful premiere represents a proud milestone — and the beginning of what many believe could become one of Nollywood’s most celebrated historical epics.