In commemoration of Nigeria 64th Independence, here are some Nollywood movies inspired by Nigeria’s Independence or centered around themes of the country’s history, struggles, and post-independence experiences:
October 1 (2014)
Directed by Kunle Afolayan, October 1 is a psychological thriller set in the days leading up to Nigeria’s independence. It follows a police officer investigating a series of murders in a rural village, while the country prepares for its independence on October 1, 1960.
Half of a Yellow Sun (2013)
Based on Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel, this film chronicles the lives of two sisters during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), a significant event in Nigeria’s post-independence history.
‘76 (2016)
Set against the backdrop of the attempted coup in 1976, just 16 years after Nigeria’s independence, ’76 follows the story of a young soldier accused of complicity in the assassination of the then-head of state, General Murtala Mohammed.
Directed by Lancelot Imasuen, this film tells the story of the British invasion of the Benin Kingdom in 1897 and highlights the colonial experience that would eventually lead to Nigeria’s quest for independence.
The Herbert Macaulay Affair (2019)
This biographical film tells the story of Herbert Macaulay, a key figure in Nigeria’s fight for independence. The film showcases his role in resisting British colonial rule and advocating for Nigerian self-governance.
Lionheart (2018)
While not directly about independence, Lionheart, directed by Genevieve Nnaji, touches on themes of post-independence business and leadership in Nigeria. It presents a modern narrative of resilience in navigating the challenges of a growing economy.
Road to Yesterday (2015)
Though not strictly focused on Nigeria’s independence, this film touches on the generational impact of post-independence Nigeria, exploring themes of love, history, and the lingering effects of Nigeria’s evolving identity.
These films either directly reference Nigeria’s independence or focus on key historical and socio-political events that have shaped the nation since gaining independence in 1960.
