Nile Entertainment, a Nigerian distribution company founded by seasoned film executive Moses Babatope, has entered into a first-look agreement with Action Xtreme, the genre label of the U.K.’s Sovereign Films. This partnership aims to co-produce and distribute action films and television shows across Africa.
With this collaboration, the goal is to bring authentic African narratives to the forefront, while providing opportunities for Nollywood talent and crew to participate in high-calibre international projects. The collaboration kicks off with the action-thriller “Son of the Soil,” directed by British-Chinese filmmaker Chee Keong Cheung (“Redcon-1”). As Variety reported, Nile Entertainment will oversee its theatrical release in Africa.
“Son of the Soil” features British Nigerian actor-writer Razaaq Adoti (“Black Hawk Down,” “Resident Evil: Apocalypse”) as a former Nigerian Special Ops paratrooper who returns to his homeland after his sister is murdered. Faced with a violent drug cartel that has taken over his community, he embarks on a gripping journey for justice and redemption.
Filmed entirely in Nigeria, “Son of the Soil” is produced by Sovereign Films’ Andreas Roald (“Triangle of Sadness”), Ioanna Karavela (“Bad Day at the Office,” “Redcon-1”), Chee Keong Cheung (“The Experiment”), and Razaaq Adoti, in collaboration with Boxonia Blueprint, led by Wingonia Ikpi, known for producing Nigerian hits like “Ijakumo” and “Sugar Rush 2.”
The cast includes Iretiola Olusola Doyle, Patience Ozokwo, Sunshine Rosman, Toyin Oshionke, Damilola Ogunsi, Taye Arimoro, and Philip Asaya.
According to Action Xtreme, a studio backed by Sovereign Media Capital, their mission is to nurture grassroots talent and produce bold, action-oriented stories for global audiences. This partnership with Nile Entertainment aims to establish a continuous pipeline of projects that highlight Nollywood’s potential on a worldwide scale.
Cheung, the CEO alongside Andreas Roald, described his initial experience producing in Nigeria as remarkable and views the collaboration with Nile Entertainment as a promising start for future ventures.
“With ‘Son of the Soil,’ I wanted to craft a narrative that is deeply rooted in Nigeria yet resonates globally,” he shared. “Collaborating with Nollywood’s talented cast and crew has revealed this industry’s immense creativity and energy. This partnership with Nile Entertainment signifies the beginning of something significant, and I am confident it will expand the audiences for Nigerian cinema internationally.”
Babatope echoed this sentiment, emphasising that the agreement represents their vision of transforming the industry through impactful partnerships designed to attract global viewers.
“This deal transcends a single project,” stated Babatope. “It’s about creating a bridge that allows Nigerian stories to transcend borders. By blending Nollywood’s rich storytelling traditions with Action Xtreme’s expertise in action films, we’re paving the way for greater recognition.”
Ikpi added, “Producing ‘Son of the Soil’ entirely in Nigeria showcases the incredible talent and resources available in the local industry. This project exemplifies that top-tier action cinema can be created here. It sets a standard for the future of high-energy Nigerian storytelling, and I’m proud that Boxonia Blueprint could help establish that foundation.”
The agreement was announced at the Toronto International Film Festival, where Nile Entertainment is showcasing two new features: “Mother’s Love,” the directorial debut of celebrated actress and singer Omotola Jalade Ekehinde, and “A Serpent’s Gift,” from acclaimed filmmaker Kayode Kasum, known for hits like “Reel Love” and “Sugar Rush.”
Looking ahead, Cheung’s slate includes “The Experiment,” featuring Rhona Mitra (“Doomsday”) and Famke Janssen (“Taken”), and “Bad Day at the Office,” starring John Hannah (“The Mummy”) and Radha Mitchell (“Man on Fire”), both set for release in 2026.
Action Xtreme also plans to implement talent development initiatives in Nigeria, focusing on stunt training, action choreography, and production skills. “This initiative extends beyond filmmaking,” Cheung noted. “It’s about establishing a comprehensive production, distribution, and exhibition ecosystem, allowing African action cinema to flourish.”
“Son of the Soil” is set to premiere in Nigerian cinemas on October 31, followed by film festivals and streaming platform debuts. Its supporters at Nile Entertainment and Action Xtreme see it as one of Nollywood’s most ambitious action-thrillers, positioning it as a launching pad and a model for delivering high-quality African stories, elevating Nollywood globally, and creating avenues for emerging talent.
In discussing the first-look deal, the companies remarked, “This long-term commitment signifies that Nollywood — and Africa — is ready to take its place on the world stage.”
