By Funmi Ajumobi

“The Artifact,” a highly anticipated adventure film directed by renowned Nollywood visionary Tolu Awobiyi, also known as LordTanner, premiered on Tuesday at the J. Randle Event and Cultural Centre and officially debuts in cinemas nationwide today, March 21, 2025.

In his words, Awobiyi, the Writer/Producer/Director of “The Artifact,” said this project represents a childhood dream come true. His deep love for the arts and fond memories of reading novels like the Famous Five and Secret Seven inspired him to share African stories with young audiences, a passion he approaches with unwavering enthusiasm.

In discussing what viewers can expect from the film, Awobiyi described “The Artifact” as the tale of four courageous young actors who embark on a daring quest to discover three precious stones and unravel the mysteries surrounding a unique artifact, along with other rare art treasures found in foreign galleries. He noted that the film features cryptic clues, hidden dangers, and unexpected criminal encounters, ensuring that audiences will be on the edge of their seats.

Futther, Tolu said, “The “Artifact” series promises to deliver a gripping and thrilling adventure across Nigeria, with plans for sequels that will explore East and Central Africa, specifically targeting Tanzania and Rwanda as potential next destinations. Awobiyi expressed his curiosity about envisioning an African version of an Indiana Jones film series, pondering how stories rooted in African museums, ancient artifacts, stolen monuments, and valuable art would translate onto the big screen”.

“Filmed across seven states in Nigeria, “The Artifact” involved a dedicated team of 80 filmmakers and crew members who captured various landscapes, including three stunning waterfalls. Notable filming locations included Erin Ijesa in Osun State, Ngwo Waterfalls in Enugu, and Assop Falls in Plateau State.

“This film deviates from traditional mystical African genres,” Awobiyi explained. “It explores a unique format, creating a first-of-its-kind live-action adventure film in Nollywood that aims to delight audiences of all ages.” The film was initially screened at Afriff in November 2024, where it received rave reviews from viewers who were captivated by its storytelling. Awobiyi remarked, “I have never heard an audience scream my name that loudly since I started making films.”

The film features an impressive all-star cast, including Gabriel Afolayan, Bimbo Manuel, Shola Fosudo, Okey Uzoeshi, and Wendy Lawal. Additionally, it introduces four emerging talents: Adeoluwa Akintoba, Miracle Inyanda, Ovy Godwin, and Sharon Rotimi, who all play pivotal roles in this adventurous production.

At the premiere, Moses Babatope, MD of Nile Group – Film Distributor, praised “The Artifact,” stating: “This film serves as a fresh and timely reminder of how fortunate we are in Nigeria to have rich stories that can be brought to life against the backdrop of our stunning geography. Tolu Awobiyi has always demonstrated a passion for showcasing the best of our country through his creative vision. He and the cast and crew of ‘The Artifact’ have succeeded brilliantly in executing a project that will compete with any production for quality and finesse. We at NILE are thrilled to bring this captivating piece to Nigerian and global audiences starting March 21, 2025, with additional dates for select markets to be announced soon.”

The premiere of #TheArtifactMovie was a resounding success, drawing an impressive crowd of media industry luminaries and film enthusiasts to the luxurious J. Randle Event and Cultural Centre. Tony Akarah from Standard Chartered Bank praised the film for its captivating storytelling and stellar performances, noting how it evoked nostalgic memories of his youth.

The event was graced by notable figures in the theater and film industry, including theater impresario Bolanle Austen Peters, esteemed Theater Arts Professor Duro Oni, and former NTA Director General Vincent Maduka. The lead actors, Prof. Sola Fosudo and Gabriel Folayan, also attended, alongside a host of other talents like Kiki Omeili, Demi Banwo (producer of Gangs of Lagos), and comedian Kenny Black.

Corporate sponsors such as Fidelity Bank, Rite Foods, Oriki Gin, and 440 Shopping were well represented, with key figures from the corporate world like Flutterwave CFO Ife Orioke and KPMG Partner Aminat Jegede in attendance. Tony Akarah and Segilola Aboaba from Multichoice, as well as former Vitafoam Chairman Dr. Dele Makanjuola, added to the event’s prestige.

Around 300 film lovers gathered to enjoy the movie at the poolside on a large screen, while an additional 100 special guests celebrated in the main hall, making the premiere a memorable night filled with excitement and camaraderie among those who share a passion for cinema.