EbonyLife Films is moving forward with the feature film adaptation of The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives, the internationally celebrated 2010 novel by Lola Shoneyin. The project marks EbonyLife Films’ return to cinema production after a five-year hiatus and is targeting a December 2026 theatrical release.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential literary works to emerge from Africa in recent decades, The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives centers on Baba Segi, his four wives, and their seven children, as long-buried truths begin to surface. The story examines themes of power, patriarchy, secrecy, and survival within a complex family structure.
The film is led by Odunlade Adekola, Iyabo Ojo, Mercy Aigbe, Bimbo Ademoye, and Omowunmi Dada. The supporting cast includes Shaffy Bello, Bisola Aiyeola, Lateef Adedimeji, Kunle Remi, Bolaji Ogunmola, Bimbo Manuel, Tina Mba, Daniel Effiong, Femi Branch, Rotimi Fakunle, Bukunmi Adeaga Ilori, and Constance Olatunde.
Produced under the banner of EbonyLife Films, the film is part of EbonyLife Group, led by founder and CEO Mo Abudu. The film is being produced through a major pan-African collaboration, with EbonyLife Group partnering alongside Genesis Group, Nile Media Entertainment Group, and Silverbird Group. The alliance brings together production, distribution, and exhibition powerhouses across the continent, positioning the film for a wide domestic and international rollout.
Daniel Oriahi is attached to direct the adaptation, working from a screenplay by Adze Ugah. Producers on the project include Heidi Uys, Chris Odeh, Mimi Bartels, and Shoneyin, with executive producers Mo Abudu, Nnaeto Orazulike, Moses Babatope, and Guy Murray Bruce. Temidayo Makanjuola serves as head of production design, while Yolanda Okereke leads costume design.
The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives is scheduled to release across Nigeria and key international markets, including the UK, where EbonyLife Cinemas is expected to launch later this year. The film joins a slate of notable EbonyLife projects that includes The Wedding Party, Chief Daddy, Blood Sisters, Òlòtūré, Elesin Oba, and Dust to Dreams, further reinforcing the company’s focus on culturally resonant African stories with global appeal.