OKUN EBI Premiere marks first Yoruba-language cinema debut in Texas, showcasing Nigerian talent and expanding Creative Village Productions’ global reach
OKUN EBI has achieved a historic milestone with its cinema premiere at LOOK Dine-In Cinemas, becoming the first Yoruba film to debut in a U.S. cinema.
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The premiere reflects the growing international presence of Yoruba-language cinema and the global expansion strategy of Creative Village Productions.
Written and produced by Olakanlu Lanre and Dunni Badru (Mr and Mrs Kogberegbe), and directed by Seun Olaiya (Black Magic), the film tells the story of a migrant couple navigating daily struggles abroad, delivering a culturally relatable narrative that resonates with Nigerian audiences in the diaspora.
The premiere featured an ensemble cast including Lola Idije, Remi Surutu, Debbie Sokoya, Dayo Amusa, and the producers themselves.
The event attracted Nollywood actors based in Texas such as Funso Adeolu, Mistura Asunramu, Gina Washington, and others.
Adding cultural significance, the premiere was attended by royal guests Sooko Lambua Adeboye and Queen Abimbola Adeboye, symbolising the strong ties between Yoruba tradition and contemporary creative expression.
Over the past decade, Creative Village Productions has built a strong footprint on Africa Magic Yoruba, and the success of this Texas premiere demonstrates the company’s strategic expansion into structured, cross-border distribution.
Previous projects in the U.S., including BORDERS and PECKERS, have laid the foundation for this milestone.
The film is scheduled for global release in March 2026 on Debbie Sokoya TV, extending its reach to a worldwide audience and reinforcing the viability of Yoruba-language cinema in international markets.
The story of OKUN EBI (Family Chord) resonates deeply with migrant couples, portraying the resilience and struggles of starting anew abroad while preserving familial and cultural identity.
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The premiere cements the film’s significance as both a creative and cultural landmark in global Nollywood storytelling.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
