Nancy Isime, one of Nigeria’s most recognisable faces for more than a decade, is executive producer of Loving Itohan, a film opening in cinemas nationwide from 6 November 2026. It is her first project in that role, made through her company, NIP Studios.
An executive producer debut#
Isime also steps behind the camera for the first time with the film. An executive producer shares in the risk and key decisions, including story, casting and how the film is marketed.
The move reflects a wider shift in Nigerian entertainment, where leading talent increasingly seeks a stake in the value it creates.
Backed by GREOH Studios#
The film comes from GREOH Studios, founded by filmmaker Jade Osiberu, who made Gangs of Lagos, the first Nigerian original on Prime Video. In 2022, Osiberu became the first talent in Africa to sign an overall deal with Prime Video.
GREOH has built its name on stories spanning comedy, action, crime and drama. With Loving Itohan, the studio focuses on the complex emotions that shape people.
The collaboration also extends Osiberu’s support for emerging voices, following Kayode Kasum (Sugar Rush) and Loukman Ali (Brotherhood), and now director Orobosa Ikponmwen.
Nigeria’s box office#
Nigeria’s box office grossed N15.64 billion (Nigerian naira) in 2025, up 28 per cent, with Nollywood, the Nigerian film industry, taking almost half of all revenue. First-quarter admissions in 2026 reached a six-year high, and takings this year are projected to pass N20 billion.
Ticket prices have risen, and audiences are more selective. Films often depend heavily on word of mouth.
About the film#
Loving Itohan opens as a classic love story and develops into a film about grief, family and the kind of love that survives loss. Its themes are set in contemporary Nigeria, where many families are under pressure and much goes unsaid.
Lead cast: Nancy Isime and Uzor Arukwe, with a supporting cast that includes newcomer Obehi Aburime.
- Directed by Orobosa Ikponmwen
- Produced by Emmanuel Izuoba
- Executive produced by Nancy Isime
