Mami Wata: A West African Tale of Chaos and Mermaids

Aya Films, a UK-based distribution company, has acquired the award-winning West African folklore film, "Mami Wata," directed by C.J. "Fiery" Obasi and produced by Oge Obasi. This black-and-white film is set to screen in 14 states from November 17 to December 7, 2023. The story revolves around an African mermaid and the chaos that erupts in a village due to disputes between villagers and the goddess' intermediary over the village's worsening condition. The cast includes Rita Edochie, Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Evelyne Ily Juhen, Kelechi Udegbe, and Tough Bone. "Mami Wata" received recognition at the African Movie Awards (AMAA) and was selected as Nigeria's official submission for the 2024 Oscars. Despite its earlier release in Nigerian cinemas, the film grossed just over ₦4.5 million in three weeks.