May 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting months for Nigerian and African cinema, with a diverse lineup of films hitting cinemas across the country. From heartwarming romantic comedies to powerful historical epics and family-driven dramas, moviegoers have plenty to choose from. This cinematic wave features standout releases like Call of My Life, The Boy Who Gave, The Fisherman, Efunroye: The Unicorn, and Ajosepo 2: The Gathering, each offering a unique story and star-studded cast.
Call of My Life, produced by Blessing Uzzi, stars Uzoamaka Power as Soluchi, a call centre agent still recovering from a broken heart after being left by her ex, Kalu, played by Zubby Michael. Her life takes a turn when she meets Eli, portrayed by Andrew Bunting, during a routine customer call. The film, written by Uzoamaka Power and directed by Dammy Twitch in his feature debut, was shot in Lagos, Abuja, and Enugu. It features veteran actors Nkem Owoh and Patience Ozokwor, alongside Beverly Osu and Broda Shaggi. The film also includes live musical performances by Johnny Drille and Cobhams Asuquo, adding a vibrant soundtrack to the romantic journey.
Another powerful release is The Boy Who Gave, a heartfelt drama set on Bonny Island in Rivers State. The film follows Idah, a teenager who drops out of school to care for his younger siblings after the loss of their parents. Written, directed, produced by, and starring Allison Precious Emmanuel, the film also features Tina Mba, Chuks Joseph, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Abbey Delight Dagogo, and Hart Andrew. It premiered at the Africa International Film Festival in 2025 to strong critical acclaim and is now available in cinemas nationwide.
Ghana’s The Fisherman, directed by Zoey Martinson and executive produced by Yvonne Orji, brings a whimsical adventure to the screen. The story follows Atta Oko, a retired traditional fisherman, who embarks on a journey to Accra with a talking fish and three quirky companions. The film boasts an impressive festival record, winning the UNESCO Fellini Medal at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, Best Narrative Feature at the American Black Film Festival, and Best Director at AFRIFF. It stars Ricky Adelayitar, Endurance Grand, William Lamptey, Kiki Romi, and Princess Fathia Nkrumah.
For history lovers, Efunroye: The Unicorn tells the true story of Efunroye Tinubu, a 19th-century merchant and political powerhouse who shaped Lagos’s foundation. Produced by and starring Faithia Williams, the Yoruba-language epic is directed by Adebayo Tijani, Tope Adebayo Salami, and Abbey Lanre. The film features a star-studded cast including Saidi Balogun, Odunlade Adekola, Ibrahim Chatta, Femi Adebayo, Mercy Aigbe, Eniola Ajao, Layi Wasabi, Foluke Daramola, and Ibrahim Yekini.
Finally, Ajosepo 2: The Gathering, directed by Kayode Kasum, returns with the beloved family chaos from the 2024 original. The sequel, releasing on May 28, brings back Toyin Abraham, Timini Egbuson, Mike Afolarin, Bolaji Ogunmola, Bisola Aiyeola, Mercy Aigbe, Tomike Adeoye, Ronke Oshodi-Oke, Yemi Solade, Kamo State, and Kiitan Bukola. With old secrets resurfacing and new romances blossoming, the family drama continues to deliver laughs and drama.
These films highlight the growing strength and variety of African storytelling, offering something for every viewer. As the month unfolds, cinemas across Nigeria and beyond will be filled with emotion, laughter, and cultural pride.
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