Nigerian cinema is set to make history as "77: The Festac Conspiracy" prepares for its world premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival on May 19, 2025. The political thriller comes a decade after its predecessor "76", which was acclaimed as Africa's first military thriller.

Produced by Adonis Production under the leadership of Adonija Owiriwa and Tonye Princewill, the film is directed by award-winning filmmaker Izu Ojukwu and stars Nollywood icons Ramsay Nouah and Rita Dominic. FilmOne Entertainment, West Africa's premier distribution company, will handle the film's release.

The screening will take place at 2:00 PM at the Palais des Festivals, marking a significant moment for Nigerian and African cinema on the global stage.

A Cultural Reckoning

"77: The Festac Conspiracy" dramatizes the political intrigue and international tensions surrounding Nigeria's historic FESTAC '77 — widely regarded as the largest pan-African cultural festival ever held. The narrative explores themes of nationalism, identity, and legacy through a suspense-filled storyline.

"With '77: The Festac Conspiracy', we go deeper into history, but with even more cinematic power," said Tonye Princewill, producer of the film. "This film is more than a story — it's a cultural reckoning and a global statement about where Nigerian cinema is headed."

Director Izu Ojukwu added, "Like '76', this film honors our history. But '77' dares to question it, dramatize it, and humanize it — all through a cinematic lens worthy of the global stage."

Nigerian Cinema Takes Center Stage

The film's premiere coincides with two historic milestones for Nigeria at Cannes: the debut of the Nigerian Pavilion at the festival — a first in its 77-year history — and the inclusion of a Nigerian film in the official selection.

"This year isn't just about one film," noted Adonija Owriwa, co-producer. "It's about an industry that has matured, innovated, and is now ready to lead. The Nigerian Pavilion and the recognition by Cannes are proof that the world is watching."

Full Slate of Activities

To promote the film and highlight the emergence of Nigerian cinema, the cast and creators will participate in several high-profile events during the festival, including:

- May 19, 10:00 AM: Talk at Plage des Palmes engaging global industry leaders about the evolution of African storytellers

- May 19, 12:00 PM: Panel at AfroCannes – New Nigeria Day discussing the film's themes and Nigeria's cultural reawakening

- May 19, 2:00 PM: Official Screening at Palais des Festivals

- Interview with Ernest White II at AfroCannes on the making of "77" and the global rise of Nollywood

With a runtime of 107 minutes, "77: The Festac Conspiracy" represents not just a continuation of the storytelling legacy begun with "76" but also signals the growing international recognition of Nollywood and African cinema as a whole.