WEBEK Studios has completed principal photography on its debut feature film Abeni, directed by Esse Akwawa, CEO of the studio, with Samuel Olasehinde as co-director and co-writer.
The wrap marks a major milestone for the Lagos-based company as it transitions into feature filmmaking.
Shot at Africhatta Film Village in Oyo State known for its strong Yoruba cultural aesthetics, Abeni draws from an undocumented historical narrative preserved through oral tradition.
The film follows Abeni, a young woman who challenges gender restrictions by pursuing the sacred craft of forging, a profession traditionally limited to men.
Akwawa described the film as a way of recovering a story that has lived mostly in memory, noting its thematic focus on courage and the overlooked roles of women in history. Co-executive producers Seun Dania and Ibrahim Chatta supported the project, with Chatta emphasizing the film’s commitment to African storytelling and cultural preservation.
Powered by CcHub in partnership with Africa No Filter and supported by the Gates Foundation, Abeni blends traditional Yoruba influences with mythic elements to explore identity, resilience, and the weight of tradition.
The production has now moved into post-production, ahead of its planned 2026 theatrical release and later transition to streaming platforms.