“Nigeria has happened to most of us.” Says filmmaker Ema Edosio, reflecting on the shared experiences of Nigerians grappling with love, ambition, and the complexities of survival in a turbulent society. Her new film, When Nigeria Happens, delves into these themes, showcasing the resilience and sacrifices of Nigerian youths as they navigate the ever-busy streets of Lagos. The film is a collaboration with Nigerian choreographer Qudus Onikeku and is set to premiere in 2025.
When Nigeria Happens promises a love story, using the emotional lens of affection, to examine how Nigerians confront the challenges of oppression, identity, and survival. To do this, Edosio combines personal narratives with socio-economic realities, offering a powerful commentary on youthful idealism clashing with harsh realities. The film promises to invite audiences to reflect on their struggles and celebrate the strength required to dream and persevere.
The film’s groundbreaking focus on contemporary Nigerian dance makes it the first of its kind, a creative milestone for Nollywood. Onikeku, whose choreography draws inspiration from Yoruba traditions and blends elements of hip-hop, capoeira, and modern dance, brings a dynamic rhythm to the storytelling.
“The dance is pure and reflective of the times we live in here.” Edosio says, adding that this collaboration enriches the narrative with an authentic expression of the human condition.
Featuring a stellar cast that includes Dakore Egbuson, Alex Usifo, and Seun Ajayi, When Nigeria Happens is as much about its characters as it is about its backdrop: Lagos, a city that embodies both hope and hardship. Through the interplay of gritty visuals and intimate storytelling, Edosio attempts to capture the unyielding spirit of Nigerians who strive to hold onto their humanity amidst chaos.
Ema Edosio is no stranger to telling powerful stories. She made her mark with Kasala!, her debut feature, which screened at over 30 international film festivals and earned nine awards. Starting as a self-taught cinematographer, she sharpened her skills at the New York Film Academy and the Motion Pictures Institute of Michigan. Her career spans directing for platforms like EbonyLife TV and BBC Africa, and her recent film, Otiti, continues to gain acclaim on international stages.
With When Nigeria Happens, Ema Edosio takes her storytelling to new heights. Beyond celebrating the talent and tenacity of Nigerians, the film serves as a mirror to society, encouraging much-needed conversations about the ways we live, love, and survive.
By merging dance, love, and survival into a single narrative, she offers audiences a visual and emotional spectacle with a fresh perspective on resilience and humanity in the face of challenges. The film promises to mirror the dreams and determination that define Nigerians, with a call to keep dancing, no matter what.
A private screening of the film is set to take place at the Surreal 16 Film Festival on 13 December 2025.
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