Ayra Starr, Adekunle Gold, and Ladipoe Set to Star in Jade Osiberu’s Highly Anticipated Film ‘Christmas in Lagos’
Ayra Starr, Adekunle Gold, and Ladipoe Set to Star in Jade Osiberu’s Highly Anticipated Film ‘Christmas in Lagos’
The Nigerian film industry is abuzz with excitement as three of the country’s top music stars—Ayra Starr, Adekunle Gold, and Ladipoe—are set to make their feature film debut in the upcoming movie Christmas in Lagos. Directed by the critically acclaimed filmmaker Jade Osiberu, the film promises to be a unique blend of music, drama, and holiday spirit, capturing the essence of Christmas in one of Africa’s most vibrant cities.
Christmas in Lagos is the latest project from Jade Osiberu, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated filmmakers. Known for her work on films like Isoken (2017) and Sugar Rush (2019), Osiberu has established herself as a leading voice in Nollywood, with a knack for creating stories that resonate deeply with audiences. Her films often explore themes of love, identity, and the complexities of modern life in Nigeria, making her one of the most sought-after directors in the industry.
Christmas in Lagos is set against the backdrop of the bustling city of Lagos during the festive season. The film will explore the intertwining lives of its characters as they navigate the joys and challenges of the holiday period. With a mix of humor, romance, and poignant moments, the film aims to capture the unique energy of Lagos at Christmas time, showcasing the city’s vibrant culture, music, and traditions.
The film marks the acting debut of three of Nigeria’s biggest music stars: Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, known professionally as Ayra Starr; Adekunle Kosoko, popularly known as Adekunle Gold; and Ladipo Eso, known by his stage name Ladipoe.
Ayra Starr, the 21-year-old singer and songwriter who has taken the Nigerian music scene by storm, is best known for her hit singles “Away” and “Bloody Samaritan.” Signed to Mavin Records, Ayra Starr has quickly become one of the leading voices of her generation, with her debut album 19 & Dangerous receiving critical acclaim. Her transition to acting in Christmas in Lagos is highly anticipated, with fans eager to see how she brings her unique charisma and talent to the big screen.
Adekunle Gold, another powerhouse in the Nigerian music industry, rose to fame with his hit single “Sade” in 2015. With his distinct blend of highlife, Afropop, and R&B, Adekunle Gold has carved out a niche for himself as one of the most versatile and innovative artists in the country. His albums, including Gold (2016) and Catch Me If You Can (2022), have solidified his status as a leading figure in the industry. Adekunle Gold’s role in Christmas in Lagos is expected to showcase a different side of the artist, highlighting his acting abilities alongside his musical talents.
Ladipoe, a rapper and lyricist signed to Mavin Records, is known for his sharp lyricism and smooth delivery. With hits like “Feeling” and “Know You,” Ladipoe has become a key player in the Nigerian rap scene. His involvement in Christmas in Lagos marks a significant step in his career, as he explores new creative avenues in the world of film.
Jade Osiberu is no stranger to creating films that resonate with audiences both in Nigeria and internationally. Her debut feature film Isoken won multiple awards, including Best Director at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) in 2018. Her follow-up project, Sugar Rush, became one of the highest-grossing Nigerian films of all time, further cementing her reputation as a filmmaker who knows how to craft stories that are both entertaining and meaningful.
With Christmas in Lagos, Osiberu aims to push the boundaries of Nollywood by blending music and cinema in a way that has rarely been seen before. “This film is a celebration of Lagos, of Christmas, and of the incredible talent we have in the Nigerian music industry,” Osiberu said. “Ayra Starr, Adekunle Gold, and Ladipoe are not just exceptional musicians—they are also gifted storytellers, and I’m thrilled to have them on board for this project.”
Christmas in Lagos is being produced by Osiberu’s production company, Greoh Studios, in collaboration with Mavin Global Holdings. The film’s soundtrack, which will feature original music from Ayra Starr, Adekunle Gold, and Ladipoe, is expected to be a major highlight, blending the festive spirit with contemporary Nigerian sounds.
Filming is set to begin in September 2024, with the movie scheduled for a December 2024 release, just in time for the holiday season. The film will be distributed in cinemas across Nigeria and selected international markets, with plans for streaming on major platforms shortly after its theatrical run.
The announcement of Christmas in Lagos has generated significant excitement among fans and industry insiders alike. The combination of Osiberu’s directorial vision with the star power of Ayra Starr, Adekunle Gold, and Ladipoe is seen as a groundbreaking moment for Nollywood, potentially setting new standards for the integration of music and film.
As the film industry in Nigeria continues to grow and evolve, Christmas in Lagos is poised to be a landmark project that not only entertains but also showcases the rich cultural tapestry of Lagos and the diverse talents within the Nigerian entertainment industry.
