Masterminds Productions Announces Epic Historical Feature Film, Oronna: Spirit of a Warrior

Masterminds Productions Announces Epic Historical Feature Film Oronna: Spirit of a Warrior

Jerry Adesewo

In a major announcement that has stirred excitement across Nigeria’s film and cultural communities, Masterminds Productions has unveiled its debut feature film, ‘Oronna: Spirit of a Warrior’, a sweeping historical epic inspired by the legendary Yoruba hero, Oronna of Ilaro.

Slated for a grand theatrical release in the last quarter of 2026, the film promises to be one of Nollywood’s most ambitious and culturally rooted cinematic offerings. Blending mythology, identity, and ancestral memory. ‘Oronna’ tells the story of Anderson Cole, a rebellious CNN correspondent whose routine cultural assignment in Ilaro takes an unexpected turn when he discovers bloodline ties to the famed warrior. What begins as journalism soon transforms into a personal odyssey — igniting a battle for identity and reawakening a legacy of sacrifice, honour, and destiny.

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The project has received royal approval from His Royal Majesty, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle (MFR), the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland. This royal endorsement underscores the cultural integrity and communal importance of the story.

Also lending weight to the film is the co-executive production role of 93-year-old Dr. S.A.J. Ibikunle, Otunba of Ilaro-Yewa and one of Nigeria’s foremost dental surgeons. Described as a revered elder statesman, his involvement is said to be pivotal in anchoring the film in historical authenticity and heritage preservation.

The film’s planning board includes influential figures such as Chief Muftau Olabimtan, Asoju Oba of Ilaro and Chairman of the Ilaro Development Council, and Nollywood icon Taiwo Hassan (Ogogo), who also plays a lead role in the film.

‘Oronna’ will be directed by award-winning filmmaker Adeoluwa Owu (Captain Degzy) and shot by renowned cinematographer John Njaga Demps. The film boasts an ensemble cast featuring Taiwo Hassan, Sola Sobowale, Odunlade Adekola, Bolanle Ninalowo, Femi Adebayo, Faithia Balogun, and a yet-to-be-announced Hollywood guest star.

Set across the striking landscapes of Ogun State, ‘Oronna’ is backed by a robust production design and a dynamic original soundtrack, including a stirring theme song titled “Oronna – Omo Ogun.” It aims to offer a cinematic experience that bridges Nigeria’s ancient history with modern cinematic storytelling.

Speaking on the vision for the film, Charles Ukpong, producer and founder of Masterminds Productions, stated:

Oronna’s story is one of strength, honour, sacrifice, and cultural pride. We believe this film will not only celebrate the heritage of Ilaro and the Yoruba people but will also resonate with global audiences hungry for stories of identity and ancestral power. This is a story whose time has come.”

‘Oronna: Spirit of a Warrior’ joins a growing list of culturally resonant Nigerian epics such as ‘Lishabi’, ‘Awujale’, ‘Bashorun Gaa’, ‘King of Thieves’, ‘Jagun Jagun’, and ‘Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’. Industry watchers say it is poised to elevate Nollywood’s epic storytelling tradition on both cultural and commercial fronts.

In anticipation of the film’s 2026 release, Masterminds Productions has opened its investment window to private and institutional backers, inviting partners to be part of what is projected to be one of Nollywood’s most culturally significant productions to date.

Founded in 1999, Masterminds Productions is a Lagos-based creative company committed to telling African stories across film, television, stage, and digital platforms. With *Oronna*, the company aims to spotlight Yoruba legacy while advancing Nigeria’s global storytelling footprint.

Masterminds Productions Announces Epic Historical Feature Film Oronna: Spirit of a Warrior