Book lovers and film enthusiasts are in for a major cultural moment as The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives, Lola Shoneyin’s acclaimed novel, is officially set for a big-screen adaptation. EbonyLife Films, led by media powerhouse Mo Abudu, is bringing the beloved literary work to cinemas, marking its first theatrical film project in five years.
The feature film, currently eyeing a December 2026 release, signals a bold return to large-scale cinema storytelling for EbonyLife, a studio that has shaped some of Nollywood’s most commercially and culturally impactful films. The adaptation moves away from earlier plans for a streaming series and instead positions the story for a wide theatrical rollout across Nigeria and international markets.
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From Acclaimed Novel to Cinematic Event
First published in 2010, The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives stands as one of Africa’s most celebrated literary works. The novel follows Baba Segi, a wealthy polygamist, his four wives, and seven children, as their carefully constructed household begins to unravel after he takes an educated fourth wife.
Through humour, tension, and deeply human conflict, Shoneyin’s story interrogates patriarchy, power, secrecy, and survival within a traditional family structure. Its themes have resonated with readers across continents, earning the book international acclaim and cementing its place in modern African literature.
Bringing this layered narrative to the big screen is a major undertaking, and EbonyLife is not going it alone. The film is a co-production involving Genesis Group, Nile Media Entertainment Group, and Silverbird Group, uniting some of Africa’s most influential film, media, and exhibition companies. The collaboration underscores the scale and ambition behind the project, positioning it as one of the most anticipated African films of the coming year.
A Star-Studded Cast and Proven Creative Team
Daniel Oriahi, known for his emotionally grounded storytelling in Sylvia and A Ghetto Love Story, will direct the film. Adze Ugah adapts the screenplay, while Heidi Uys, Chris Odeh, Mimi Bartels, and Shoneyin herself oversee production. Mo Abudu, Nnaeto Orazulike, Moses Babatope, and Guy Murray Bruce serve as executive producers.
The cast reads like a who’s who of Nollywood royalty. Leading the ensemble are Odunlade Adekola, Iyabo Ojo, Mercy Aigbe, Bimbo Ademoye, and Omowunmi Dada. They are joined by an extensive supporting lineup that includes Shaffy Bello, Bisola Aiyeola, Lateef Adedimeji, Kunle Remi, Bolaji Ogunmola, Bimbo Manuel, Tina Mba, Daniel Etim Effiong, Femi Branch, Rotimi Fakunle, Bukunmi Adeaga Ilori, and Constance Olatunde.
Behind the scenes, EbonyLife regulars, Temidayo Makanjuola and Yolanda Okereke, lead production design and wardrobe respectively, ensuring visual authenticity and cultural depth. With EbonyLife Cinemas set to open in the UK later this year, the film is also positioned for a strong international theatrical presence.
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EbonyLife’s Return to Big-Screen Storytelling
Mo Abudu has described the project as a meaningful return to cinemas, emphasizing the scale of collaboration and storytelling ambition behind the adaptation. Industry partners have echoed similar sentiments, describing the film as a defining moment for African cinema and a testament to the growing global appetite for African stories told with depth and authenticity.
EbonyLife strategically shifts back to theatrical releases after years of focusing on streaming projects. By aiming for a December release, traditionally reserved for blockbuster films, they position The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives as both a cultural event and a commercial heavyweight.
Stay with RefinedNG for exclusive updates on African books, films, and the stories shaping global culture. If you’ve read the novel, tell us in the comments: what moment are you most excited to see on the big screen?