King Kosoko premieres in Lagos ahead of its August 28 cinema release, bringing Oba Kosoko’s historic struggle and Yoruba heritage to the screen

Nigerian historical epic King Kosoko, The Battle for Lagos premiered at IMAX Cinema, Lekki, Lagos, on Sunday, August 23, 2026, bringing traditional rulers, members of the Kosoko royal family, Nollywood stars and cultural figures together ahead of the film’s nationwide cinema release on Friday, August 28.

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Produced by Teqsus Studios, the much-anticipated production uses the story of Oba Kosoko to revisit a defining period in Lagos history, with themes of leadership, political rivalry, trade, resistance and the preservation of Yoruba identity at its heart.

The Lekki premiere provided a fitting setting for a film centred on the history and heritage of Lagos.

Traditional rulers, high chiefs and representatives of the Kosoko royal family were among the distinguished guests who attended the event.

Directed by Adebayo Tijani, the film was produced by Ayo Ajayi and Segun Ololo Kosoko, with Marc Adebesin serving as co-producer.

King Kosoko focuses on the political struggles surrounding Lagos and its relationship with the Benin Empire, while examining the competition for trade and influence that shaped the city during a turbulent period.

The story also touches on the impact of external forces, the transatlantic slave trade and the wider political tensions that challenged Lagos’ sovereignty.

At the centre of the historical drama is Oba Kosoko, whose leadership and political strategy are portrayed against a backdrop of rivalry, betrayal and shifting alliances.

The filmmakers have positioned the production as more than a conventional historical drama.

The film seeks to reconnect contemporary audiences with an important chapter of Lagos and Yoruba history through an ambitious cinematic treatment.

The cast brings together some of Nollywood’s established names, including Femi Adebayo, Tina Mba, Odunlade Adekola, Femi Branch, Jide Kosoko, Yinka Quadri, Dele Odule, Gabriel Afolayan, Adeniyi Johnson, Sola Kosoko, Aisha Lawal and Kola Ajeyemi.

The involvement of veteran actor Jide Kosoko also adds a notable personal dimension to the production, given his connection to the royal lineage at the centre of the story.

The premiere’s gathering of cultural custodians and members of the traditional institution underlined the importance attached to preserving historical narratives through film.

Following the Lagos premiere, King Kosoko, The Battle for Lagos is scheduled to open in cinemas across Nigeria on Friday, August 28, 2026.

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The nationwide release will give audiences an opportunity to engage with a dramatic retelling of one of the most significant royal and political chapters in Lagos history, while experiencing the heritage, ambition and conflict that shaped the era.