Faithia Williams is stepping into history with Efunroye: The Unicorn, a Yoruba-language epic that brings one of Lagos’ most powerful figures back into focus.
The newly released trailer offers a first look at the life of Efunroye Tinubu, the 19th-century merchant, political force, and kingmaker whose influence helped shape the foundations of Lagos as we know it today.
From her early days as a market trader near Abeokuta to her rise through marriage to exiled prince Oba Adele, the film traces Tinubu’s journey into becoming a dominant figure in trade and governance. It’s a story of strategy, resilience, and power, one that positions her not just as a participant in history, but as a woman who actively shaped it.
Set against the backdrop of colonial-era Nigeria, the film leans heavily into cultural authenticity. Told in Yoruba, it captures the language, politics, and social structures of the time, grounding the narrative in a sense of place and history that feels intentional rather than decorative. Themes of legacy, leadership, and control run through the story, reflecting the realities of a period where influence often came at a cost.
Behind the scenes, the production brings together a strong creative team, with direction from Adebayo Tijani and Tope Adebayo Salami, and production credits including Niyi Akinmolayan, Diran Adeyinka, and Kemi Anibaba. Distribution is handled by FilmOne Entertainment.
The cast reads like a roll call of Nollywood heavyweights, including Saidi Balogun, Odunlade Adekola, Ibrahim Chatta, Femi Adebayo, Mercy Aigbe, and Eniola Ajao, among others adding weight and familiarity to a story rooted in history.
With its theatrical release set for May 1, 2026, Efunroye: The Unicorn is shaping up to be more than just a period drama. It’s a reclamation of narrative placing a powerful African woman at the center of her own story, where she has always belonged.
