Ema Edosio Deelen, founder of City Gates Films, is set to release her upcoming feature film, “When Nigeria Happens,” in July 2025. Touted as Nigeria’s first contemporary dance film, the project was made in collaboration with QDance Company, founded by renowned choreographer Qudus Onikeku.
“At its core, the film is about resilience,” Edosio Deelen said. “It shows how young Nigerians continue to dream and create even when things get tough. I wanted to make something honest that captures both the beauty and the struggle of living and creating in Nigeria today.”
Co-written by Bayo Oduwole and Edosio Deelen, the film celebrates the vibrancy of dance, love, and survival in the Nigerian experience. It features real dancers, whose performances bring authenticity and energy to the storytelling.
“When Nigeria Happens” follows a group of misfit dancers navigating life in Lagos. It tells a personal story of love, identity, and hustle, seen through the eyes of young people fighting to hold onto their passion for dance amid the harsh realities around them.
The film stars Jidekene Achufusi, Seun Ajayi, Alex Usifo, Abella DomDom Dominic, and Ruth EL Phygo Felix.
More information is expected to be shared on the official website whennigeriahappens.com ahead of the film’s release.