Nigerian Animated Series Iyanu Premieres in 44 African Countries – Showmax

On Feb 19, 2025

Showmax, an online movie streaming platform, has announced its partnership with Lion Forge Entertainment to premiere a Nigerian animated series, Iyanu, across 44 African countries.

Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, revealed this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.

According to Tejumola, the series is set to debut on June 13, with the entire first season available for binge-watching across these countries. She also noted that Showmax has released the official trailer, offering audiences a preview of the captivating story inspired by Nigerian culture and mythology.

“Iyanu brings Nigerian culture and mythology to life in an exciting and authentic way.

“We are proud to be the home of its African premiere and can’t wait for audiences across the continent to experience this epic adventure on Showmax.

“The talented all-African Iyanu voice cast includes Serah Johnson as Iyanu; Okey Jude as Biyi, Iyanu’s carefree adventurer friend; Samuel Kugbiyi as Toye, Iyanu’s bookworm companion.

“Also, Adesua Etomi-Wellington as Olori; Blossom Chukwujekwu as Kanfo, Toye’s father; Stella Damasus as Sewa; Shaffy Bello as Emi, the One Mother; and Ike Ononye as Elder Alapani,” she said.

Tejumola stated that the series is an adaptation of Iyanu: Child of Wonder, a graphic novel series by Roye Okupe, published by YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comics.

She highlighted that Okupe, who was born and raised in Nigeria, serves as the series’ creator, executive producer, and showrunner.

The series is produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, a Black-owned animation studio based in North America.

ITVX is also set to premiere the series in the UK and Ireland this summer.

Tejumola stated that the show’s executive producers include David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands, and Matt Heath from Lion Forge Entertainment; Roye Okupe of YouNeek Studios; Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital; Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group; and Doug Schwalbe of Superprod.

David Steward II, CEO of Lion Forge Entertainment, expressed his excitement about the project, highlighting the dedication and passion that Roye Okupe and the entire team have invested in the series.

“We’re thrilled to see Iyanu debut on Cartoon Network, Max, and Showmax soon. This series marks a significant step in our mission to tell culturally rich stories that connect with audiences worldwide, and we believe viewers will share in our enthusiasm,” he said.

Inspired by Nigerian culture, music, and mythology, Iyanu follows the journey of a courageous young orphan living in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland. While studying history and ancient arts, she longs for a normal life—until an imminent threat awakens divine powers that have remained dormant for centuries.

Since the legendary Age of Wonders, divine powers have remained dormant—until now.

Joined by her newfound friends, Biyi and Toye, along with a mystical leopard named Ekun, Iyanu embarks on a quest to uncover the source of the looming evil. Along the way, she unravels the mysteries of her past and discovers her true destiny.

NAN/Oluchi