Okun Ebi has become the first Yoruba-language film to premiere in a U.S. commercial cinema, marking a milestone for indigenous Nigerian cinema abroad.
A Yoruba-language relatable comedy film, Okun Ebi, has recorded a historic milestone with its premiere at LOOK Dine-In Cinemas in Arlington, Texas, United States. Organisers said the event marked the first time a Yoruba film premiered in a commercial cinema in Texas and, by their account, the first of its kind in the United States. The screening drew Nollywood figures from the diaspora alongside cultural stakeholders, underscoring growing global recognition for indigenous Nigerian storytelling.
The film was written and produced by Olakanlu Lanre and Dunni Badru, popularly known as Mr. and Mrs. Kogberegbe, while direction was handled by Seun Olaiya (Black Magic). The producers described the Arlington outing as a strategic effort to expand culturally rooted Yoruba narratives beyond traditional home-video and niche platforms into mainstream international cinemas. The movie is scheduled for global release in March 2026 on Debbie Sokoya TV.
The project continues the producers’ long-standing commitment to delivering culturally grounded, high-quality Yoruba content to global audiences on Africa Magic and other on-demand streaming platforms. The ensemble cast includes Lola Idije, Remi Surutu, Debbie Sokoya, Dolapo Oyebamiji, Mr Latin, Dayo Amusa, Mr Paragon, Mr. and Mrs. Kogberegbe, Lola Faduri and Remmy Shitabey, reflecting strong industry backing.
The premiere attracted Nollywood actors based in Texas, including Funso Adeolu, Mistura Asunramu, Gina Washington, Omo Tee, Nikky Grace and Bunmi Ojomo. Royal guests Sooko Lambua Adeboye and Queen Abimbola Adeboye of the Ile-Ife Kingdom were also in attendance, symbolising the bridge between Yoruba cultural heritage and contemporary creative expression in the diaspora.