LAGOS, NIGERIA — NOVEMBER 2, 2026 — Lufodo Productions, in collaboration with Kinsman Studios, is proud to announce the official premiere of its highly anticipated short film, A Tray of Locust Beans. The film has also been honoured as an Official Selection at the prestigious African International Film Festival (AFRIFF) 2026.
Commissioned by the Above Whispers Media Foundation in collaboration with the Amandla Institute for Policy and Leadership Advancement, A Tray of Locust Beans will have its official premiere on November 5th, 2026, at Film House, Landmark in Lagos.
The exclusive screening will be followed by an insightful post-film conversation focusing on the crucial societal themes raised in the movie. Based on a compelling short story by prominent activist and writer Mrs Bisi Fayemi, with the screenplay written by Ololade Okedare and Ayobola Eniola, and directed by the talented Orobosa Ikponmwen, A Tray of Locust Beans is a deeply moving tribute to female strength, resilience, and survival.
Set against the backdrop of Epe, the plot follows a thirteen-year-old girl who finds herself navigating a broken child welfare system and exploitative informal guardianship. The film features a stellar cast, led by rising star Somachi Chilaka, legendary Nollywood icon Joke Silva, and the talented Korede Lawal.
Executive produced by Joke Silva, Soji Jacobs, and Mrs Bisi Fayemi, A Tray of Locust Beans serves as an urgent cinematic call to dismantle the culture of silence surrounding sexual violence and protect vulnerable children. “We are incredibly honoured that A Tray of Locust Beans has been recognised by AFRIFF 2026,” said the production team. “This film addresses raw, systemic issues that are often swept under the rug. Through Mabel’s story, we want to spark uncomfortable but necessary conversations about how our societies protect or fail to protect the girl child.”
The premiere on November 5th marks the first time the public can witness this gripping narrative before its scheduled festival screenings at AFRIFF.
About Lufodo Productions
Co-founded by veteran actors Joke Silva and Olu Jacobs, Lufodo Productions is a premier Nigerian creative hub dedicated to producing high-quality film, stage, and television content that reflects deep cultural realities while maintaining international artistic standards. Website: https://lufodo.com/
About Above Whispers Media foundation
Above Whispers Media Foundation is a women’s rights organisation dedicated to amplifying the voices of women and girls, advancing gender equality and promoting social justice in Nigeria. Through storytelling, advocacy, capacity building and strategic partnerships, it empowers women to shape public narratives, influence policy and drive social change. Website: https://abovewhispers.com/
About Amandla Institute for Policy and Leadership Advancement
The Amandla Institute is a forward-thinking organisation committed to policy advocacy, leadership development, and structural reforms aimed at advancing social justice and protecting women and vulnerable children across Africa. Website: https://amandlainstitute.org/
Leave a Reply