The Nigerian film industry witnessed a remarkable moment on Sunday, March 29, 2026, as “Avante” premiered at Jabi Lake Mall, Abuja, drawing strong commendations from industry veterans, cast members, and movie enthusiasts who described the production as a significant step forward for Nollywood.
Speaking at the premiere, the film’s producer, Engr. Kingsley Okafor, described “Avante” as more than just entertainment, but a carefully crafted story rooted in history, human emotion, and contemporary realities. He explained that the film blends themes of vengeance, love, and destiny, telling the story of a young man who seeks justice after the tragic killing of his father and members of his community.
Okafor noted that although the story is set in the early post-colonial period, its message remains relevant today—especially in addressing the growing concerns around security and leadership accountability in society. He emphasized that the film encourages viewers to reflect on governance, particularly the responsibility of authorities to protect citizens.
Highlighting the deeper message of the film, he stressed that power must always be exercised with responsibility and accountability. According to him, “Avante,” a word derived from Spanish meaning “forward,” symbolizes progress and the need to learn from past experiences while moving ahead with purpose.
In a move that sets the production apart, Okafor revealed that casting decisions were based strictly on suitability for roles rather than popularity, a choice he said was necessary to maintain the authenticity of the story. He reaffirmed his commitment to producing timeless stories capable of resonating with audiences for generations.
“We believe in telling our stories without compromise. The goal is to create films that will remain relevant even many years from now,” he said, adding that producing a quality film requires resilience, especially in the face of funding and industry challenges.
The film received strong endorsement from veteran media personality Pa Peter Michael Piper, who described “Avante” as one of the best Nigerian films he has seen in recent times. He praised its originality, technical quality, and storytelling depth, noting that the film breaks away from predictable narratives commonly associated with Nollywood.
According to him, the production reflects a positive shift in the industry, which he believes had previously declined due to the exit of trained professionals. He expressed optimism that “Avante” marks the beginning of a new phase for Nigerian cinema.
Other attendees also shared similar views. Movie enthusiast Randy Halliday commended the film’s captivating scenes, high-quality cinematography, and impressive soundtrack, describing it as both engaging and realistic.
Cast member Eddie Walker expressed pride in being part of the project, highlighting the film’s strong production elements, including its visuals, sound design, costumes, and overall setting. He encouraged audiences to watch the movie for its uniqueness and quality.
Co-director and actor Doe Junior also praised the dedication of the entire team, noting that the production was driven by a commitment to excellence from start to finish. He emphasized that no effort was spared in delivering a top-quality film.
With its compelling storyline, technical strength, and positive reception from both industry professionals and viewers, “Avante” is already gaining attention as a standout production that could influence the future direction of Nollywood.
The film is scheduled for nationwide cinema release on Friday, April 3, 2026, and is expected to attract audiences across major cities. Movie lovers are encouraged to experience what many are already describing as a refreshing and impactful addition to Nigerian cinema.