Nigeria: King Kosoko: The battle for Lagos premieres in Lekki ahead of nationwide cinema release

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria

The historical epic _King Kosoko: The Battle for Lagos_ had its world premiere in Lagos on Sunday, August 23, 2026, with a red-carpet event at IMAX Cinema, Lekki. The film will open nationwide in cinemas on Friday, August 28.

Produced by Teqsus Studios, the premiere brought together traditional rulers, cultural leaders, members of the Kosoko royal family, and Nollywood stars for a night celebrating Yoruba history and heritage.

It explores the political struggles for control of Lagos, the kingdom’s relationship with the Benin Empire, battles over trade and influence, and the impact of external forces during the colonial era.

The story also touches on regional politics, commerce, and the transatlantic slave trade, while highlighting efforts to protect Yoruba identity and the sovereignty of Lagos.

At the center is Oba Kosoko. The film portrays his leadership, political strategy, and resistance against rival factions, set against a backdrop of betrayal, shifting alliances, and war

The film was directed by Adebayo Tijani. Producers are Ayo Ajayi and Segun Ololo Kosoko, with Marc Adebesin as co-producer.

The cast features some of Nollywood’s biggest names: Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, Jide Kosoko, Yinka Quadri, Dele Odule, Femi Branch, Tina Mba, Gabriel Afolayan, Adeniyi Johnson, Sola Kosoko, Aisha Lawal, and Kola Ajeyemi.

The filmmakers described the project as both entertainment and cultural preservation — an effort to bring a defining chapter of Lagos history to modern audiences through cinema.

Traditional rulers, high chiefs, and representatives of the Kosoko royal family attended the premiere, underscoring the historical weight of the story.

Speakers at the event praised the film for spotlighting Lagos heritage and for presenting history in a way that connects younger generations to their roots.

Following the Lagos premiere, _King Kosoko: The Battle for Lagos_ will begin screening across Nigeria on August 28, 2026.

The producers say the film is intended to spark conversations about leadership, identity, and the legacy of Lagos as a trading and political power in pre-colonial Nigeria.

With its mix of historical drama, action, and cultural themes, the film adds to the growing wave of Nigerian epics bringing local history to the big screen.