Stan Nze, Sola Sobowale and Bisola Aiyeola star in Tola Odunsi’s crime drama 19, which is set to open in Nigerian cinemas on September 11, 2026.
Written and directed by Odunsi and produced by Bola Atta and Odunsi, the film follows Ndubuisi Madueke, played by Nze, a young man from a family struggling with poverty who becomes involved in internet fraud as Nigeria enters its early internet era.
19 examines the social and personal circumstances surrounding the rise of 419 culture, placing Ndubuisi’s journey against a period when new digital opportunities emerged alongside unemployment, corruption, and limited economic mobility.
Rather than focusing solely on the mechanics of cybercrime, the film explores the consequences of Ndubuisi’s choices on his family and relationships as his pursuit of money changes the direction of his life.
The title references Section 419 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, which is associated with advance-fee fraud.
Sobowale, Aiyeola, Deyemi Okanlawon, William Benson, Demola Adedoyin, Enado Odunsi, Tayo Faniran and Boma Akpore also feature in the film.
Odunsi is known for directing and writing projects including The Men’s Club, The Island and From Lagos with Love.
19 previously had its world premiere at the GUBA Trade & Investment Forum in Barbados in November 2025. The film is distributed by Nile Entertainment and will be released in Nigerian cinemas on September 11.
