Latest News
Kuku Documentary Wins Best Documentary at Inside Nollywood International Film Festival!
We are thrilled to announce that The Kuku Documentary has won the Best Documentary Award at the prestigious Inside Nollywood International Film Festival & Awards held on February 16, 2025, at Candellux Hotel, Abuja. This recognition is a testament to the powerful story of Balogun Kuku, his enduring legacy, and the impact of his descendants.
Ahmed expressed deep gratitude for this honor, emphasizing the importance of preserving African history and celebrating our rich heritage. This win follows the film’s official selection and screening at the San Diego Black Film Festival, further solidifying its global relevance.
San Diego Black Film Festival Official Selection & Director’s Q&A
The Kuku Documentary was officially selected for screening at the San Diego Black Film Festival, one of the largest Black film festivals in the United States. The festival, which showcases groundbreaking Black cinema, provided an incredible platform for the documentary to reach an international audience.
During the event, our director participated in an engaging Q&A session, sharing insights into the making of the film, the importance of preserving African heritage, and the inspiration behind telling Balogun Kuku’s story.
📌 Watch highlights from the San Diego Black Film Festival Q&A:
Listen to the Director’s Interview on KCSB News!
Adding to the momentum, our director was featured on KCSB News, discussing the inspiration behind the documentary, its historical importance, and the journey of sharing Balogun Kuku’s story with the world.
Listen to the full interview here:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/38ucirW4AEHKWI3ZT1QfmE?si=0c5c42c9e9ce4d20
A Homecoming to Remember: Kuku Documentary Premieres at Voicenel Cinema, Ijebu Ode
On Friday, June 6th, 2025 — Ileya Day — The Kukus of Ijebu-Ode: A Family Portrait made a triumphant return to its cultural birthplace with a landmark screening at Voicenel Cinema, Ijebu Ode. The event was attended by prominent members of the Kuku family, traditional elders, cultural stakeholders, and members of the general public.
The screening was marked by a vibrant red carpet reception, and an opening speech by the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebu, Dr. Sonny Folorunsho Kuku, who spoke on the historical significance of the Kuku family and their enduring contributions to Ijebuland.
Following the screening of the documentary, guests were invited to an engaging Director’s Q&A, moderated by Ani Bassey-Eyo, CEO of Lani Creatives — a key sponsor of the session. Insightful questions explored the making of the documentary, its global journey, and the cultural importance of storytelling in preserving legacy.
Having previously screened in London and San Diego, and with future stops scheduled in Paris and Indianapolis, the Ijebu Ode event marked a symbolic homecoming for the film. The evening not only celebrated the legacy of Balogun Kuku, but also served as a moving tribute to Ijebu history and identity.
With strong local support and media interest, the screening reaffirmed the global relevance of this deeply personal and culturally rich film.
