A New Voice Behind the Camera, Omotola’s Debut Mother’s Love Shines in Toronto
On September 6, 2025, Nollywood icon Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde marked a historic milestone in her illustrious career with the premiere of her directorial debut, Mother’s Love, at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The screening, held at TIFF’s Lightbox 5, drew a distinguished audience of international film distributors, sales agents, industry delegates, and Nigerian filmmakers, celebrating a pivotal moment for African cinema. For Ekeinde, a TIME 100 honoree and one of Africa’s most influential cinematic figures, this debut represents a bold new chapter after three decades of shaping Nollywood as a leading actress.
Known for her commanding screen presence and roles in iconic films that defined Nollywood’s global rise, Ekeinde has now transitioned to storytelling from behind the lens. Mother’s Loveis a deeply personal and universal story that showcases her vision as a filmmaker. The film explores the resilience of mothers across different social classes, delving into the intricate dynamics of mother-daughter relationships, with a particular focus on first-born daughters. It also tackles heavy themes such as grief, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and social stratification, offering a nuanced portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of maternal love.
The premiere was a star-studded affair, attended by prominent figures in the Nigerian film industry and beyond. Among the notable attendees were the Director General of Nigeria’s National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVSB), Shuaibu Hussein, and celebrated filmmakers like Obi Emelonye, Lonzo Nzekwe, and Charles Uwagbai. The cast and crew of Mother’s Love were also present, including supporting actress Lilian Afegbai, producer Rogers Ofime, producer and director Oreoluwa Awolowo Nora, writer Oyin Debby, media personality Effe Tommy, casting director and actor Lala Akindoju, and actors Linda Osifo and OC Ukeje. Ekeinde’s close friends, including Thansine Brown, Aluminas Sileris, Debby Taw, Lonzo, and De Hunter, also joined to celebrate her milestone.
The response to Mother’s Love was overwhelmingly positive, with the audience and industry peers praising Ekeinde’s directorial finesse. UK-based Nigerian filmmaker Obi Emelonye, known for films like Last Flight to Abuja, hailed the film as “a debut that deserves to be studied at Harvard,” underscoring its intellectual and emotional depth. The film’s ability to weave personal stories with universal themes resonated deeply, positioning it as a significant contribution to contemporary African cinema.
Ekeinde’s transition to directing comes at a time when Nollywood is gaining increasing global recognition. Her work in Mother’s Love not only highlights her versatility but also reinforces Nigeria’s growing influence in the international film industry. The film’s premiere at TIFF, one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals, is a testament to the rising prominence of African stories told by African voices.
Following its successful TIFF premiere, Mother’s Love is set to make its Nigerian debut in Lagos in early 2026. The film will then embark on a global theatrical tour, with a release strategically planned to coincide with Mother’s Day, amplifying its universal message of maternal love and resilience. This release strategy underscores Ekeinde’s intention to connect with audiences worldwide, from Nigeria to the diaspora and beyond.
For Nigerian audiences, Mother’s Love is more than just a film; it is a celebration of cultural storytelling and the power of women in shaping narratives. Ekeinde’s directorial debut is poised to inspire a new generation of filmmakers in Nigeria, encouraging them to explore complex themes and push creative boundaries.
As Nollywood continues to evolve, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde remains at the forefront, proving that her influence extends far beyond acting. With Mother’s Love, she has crafted a cinematic gem that promises to leave a lasting impact on audiences and the global film industry alike.
