One of Africa's most cherished literary works, Lola Shoneyin's acclaimed novel, "The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives," is officially being adapted for the big screen. EbonyLife Films has announced that the highly anticipated film adaptation is slated for a global cinema release in December 2026. This project marks a significant return to theatrical filmmaking for EbonyLife, following a five-year period primarily focused on streaming titles.

In a groundbreaking move for the African media industry, the production is a collaborative effort involving four major African powerhouses: EbonyLife Group, Genesis Group, Nile Group, and Silverbird Group. Executive Producer Mo Abudu expressed her excitement about the project, stating, “I am excited to return to the big screen after five years with the film adaptation of Lola Shoneyin’s world-acclaimed story. The strong partnerships with Genesis, Nile, and Silverbird, alongside our outstanding ensemble cast, reflect the scale of this project.”

The film will be directed by Daniel Oriahi, known for his work on "Sylvia" and "The Weekend." It boasts one of the largest ensemble casts ever assembled for a Nigerian feature film. The lead role is taken by Odunlade Adekola, supported by prominent actors such as Iyabo Ojo, Bimbo Ademoye, Mercy Aigbe, and Omowunmi Dada. The extensive cast also includes Shaffy Bello, Femi Branch, Bisola Aiyeola, Lateef Adedimeji, Kunle Remi, Daniel Etim Effiong, and Tina Mba.

The narrative centers on Baba Segi, a wealthy and boastful patriarch whose meticulously maintained polygamous household faces upheaval with the arrival of his fourth wife, Bolanle. Bolanle, a university-educated woman, disrupts the established dynamics, triggering a series of rivalries and gradually exposing long-buried secrets that the first three wives have gone to extreme lengths to protect. The screenplay has been expertly adapted by Adze Ugah, with direct input from Lola Shoneyin herself, ensuring the film retains the sharp wit and critical social commentary of the original 2010 novel.

Moses Babatope, CEO of Nile Group, emphasized the film's global appeal, remarking, “This is the kind of story that deserves a worldwide cinema audience. The scale of collaboration behind this project is unprecedented, and audiences across continents can expect something truly special this Christmas.” The extensive partnerships and star-studded cast underscore the ambition and international potential of this cinematic endeavor.