Magic Carpet Studios Releases First Look at Adapted Animated Film, “The Passport of Mallam Ilia”

Magic Carpet Studios has unveiled the first teaser for their ambitious 2D animated project, “The Passport of Mallam Ilia,” seeking partnerships with major production studios, streaming platforms, and audience support to secure additional funding for the film, scheduled for release in December 2026.

Art Director and Director Chekwube Okonkwo Emmanuel explains that the film adapts Cyprian Ekwensi’s acclaimed 1960s novel, a project they’ve developed over four years after acquiring the rights. “We’ve progressed from research through script writing, voice acting, storyboards, and animation. Now in production, we need funding to expand our team of animators, artists, and background painters in order to move forward,” he states.

Given Nigeria’s emerging animation industry and its resource challenges, Magic Carpet Studios aims to advance the sector through this production. The project has simultaneously trained animators and freelancers to build capacity, with Okonkwo asserting that “Africa is the future for animation, especially with Nigeria being the trigger.” Recent years have witnessed the rise of studios like South Africa’s Triggerfish and Disney’s acquisition of African intellectual properties.

What distinguishes “The Passport of Mallam Ilia” is its status as Nigerian IP created entirely by Nigerians, a groundbreaking initiative rooted in nostalgia through the adaptation of the African literary classic. The action-thriller targets mature audiences and promises to elevate African storytelling globally.

Over its decade-long history, Magic Carpet Studios has collaborated with international brands including Cartoon Network  (“Garage Boy and Trash Can”), Sesame Street, and Microsoft, serving clients both within and beyond Nigeria.

“Ever since we acquired that right, we have been looking at the space and creating the execution phase hasn’t been easy. We experienced challenges, mostly financial constraints. Sometimes we are reminded that it isn’t achievable because most animation studios usually have more resources and manpower. We have been training and working tirelessly to get a great project out there regardless,” Okonkwo shares.

The studio released this first look hoping to generate support, noting there’s considerably more unrevealed content in their archives. The project features intense action, drama, suspense, and unprecedented artistic beauty, offering just a glimpse of the complete film, which involves renowned artists and professionals.

“The Passport of Mallam Ilia” represents a cultural exploration that illuminates Nigerian history and heritage. The studio is currently in discussions with various streaming platforms and plans a theatrical release to allow audiences to experience the artistic achievement on the big screen.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Set in Kano, “The Passport of Mallam Ilia” dives into the world of Ilia and talks about pre- colonial times when warriors, emperors and conquerors existed. It is a travel film that chronicles Ilia’s journey as he narrates the story of his boyhood and his battle to win his wife’s hand.

To be part of the experience, visit www.magicpassport.studio for various investment options.