Toka McBaror’s AVANTE Poised to Make Strong Nollywood Statement in 2026

Our Reporter

Nigeria’s film industry is set for a significant cinematic moment as AVANTE, a highly anticipated feature film, prepares for its exclusive grand premiere on Sunday, March 29, 2026.

Excitement continues to build around the production, which brings together an impressive ensemble cast under the direction of acclaimed filmmaker Toka McBaror, raising expectations for what insiders predict could become one of Nollywood’s standout releases of the year.

Leading the cast is award-winning actor Chimezie Imoh, celebrated for his critically acclaimed performance in The Breath of Life. A recipient of the Trailblazer Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, Imoh is known for portraying emotionally layered characters, a strength audiences are expected to witness again in AVANTE.

He stars alongside Kingsley Okafor, recognized for his lead role in the Amazon Prime Video drama series Marriage Stunts. In AVANTE, Okafor assumes the role of a hardened General haunted by a violent military past — a character poised to introduce psychological tension and moral conflict into the storyline.

Also featured is Patience Ujah, widely known for portraying Seyken in Seasons 1 and 2 of Halita on Africa Magic. Her growing portfolio includes appearances in Eagle Wings, Katangari Goes to Town, and Dear Future Me, reinforcing her reputation as one of Nollywood’s rising versatile performers.

The film further boasts the presence of Eddie Watson, a familiar figure in African cinema whose credits include The Waiter on Netflix and productions associated with The Real Housewives of Abuja on Showmax. His enduring screen appeal continues to resonate with audiences across the continent.

Other cast members include Maliya, known for roles in Laurie, The Slave Husband, and Muna, as well as Cameroonian actress, writer, and producer Ruth Nkweti, whose notable works include Living in Bondage: Breaking Free, Ejiro’s Lust, and Last Tango in Abuja. Nkweti is equally respected for her socially driven storytelling and advocacy initiatives.

Directed by McBaror — whose filmography includes Dark October, Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons, and Kada River — AVANTE benefits from a filmmaker widely regarded for combining commercial appeal with compelling storytelling. His award-winning film Lotanna further cemented his reputation after securing multiple honors at the Golden Movie Awards.

At the core of AVANTE is a gripping revenge drama intertwined with love and moral conflict. The story follows Gaju, a man seeking vengeance for his parents’ murder who assumes a false identity as a farmhand to infiltrate his enemy’s household. His mission becomes complicated when he unexpectedly falls in love with the daughter of the man he holds responsible, forcing him to confront a difficult choice between revenge and redemption.

Beyond its cinematic appeal, the March 29 premiere is expected to attract leading figures from across the entertainment industry, including filmmakers, actors, executives, and cultural influencers, underscoring the film’s growing industry significance.

As anticipation mounts, AVANTE appears positioned not just as another Nollywood release, but as a production aiming to leave a lasting imprint on African storytelling in 2026.