Circuits, Mount Zion, Sozo Films Revive Iconic Agbara Nla Franchise

Africa’s leading virtual cinema platform, Circuits, has announced a landmark partnership with Sozo Films and Mount Zion Film Productions for the nationwide cinema release of Agbara Nla: The Return on October 1, marking the revival of one of the most influential faith-based film franchises in African cinema.

Speaking on the project, the chief operating officer and founder of Circuits, Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni, described the film’s return as a significant cultural and spiritual moment, noting that the original Agbara Nla transcended entertainment to become a movement that shaped conversations around faith, values and purpose across generations.

According to Bibowei-Osuobeni, the decision by Circuits to back the production reflects the company’s commitment to supporting stories that inspire, challenge and uplift audiences.

“At a time when much of the entertainment industry is driven by trends and algorithms, we believe there remains a strong audience appetite for stories rooted in faith, culture, purpose and enduring values,” she said.

She further stated that the project signals renewed confidence in the commercial viability and cultural relevance of faith-based filmmaking in Africa, adding that audiences are increasingly seeking content that resonates with their beliefs, experiences and aspirations.

Bibowei-Osuobeni noted that the original Agbara Nla, produced by Mount Zion Film Productions under the leadership of Mike and Gloria Bamiloye, helped define Christian filmmaking on the continent and remains one of the most recognised gospel film brands in Africa.

She said the new production seeks to preserve that legacy while introducing the story to a new generation of viewers.

The Circuits founder explained that Sozo Films is playing a pivotal role in reimagining the classic franchise through contemporary filmmaking techniques while retaining the spiritual depth and message that made the original production a phenomenon.

“This collaboration represents a meeting of heritage and innovation, ensuring that the story remains relevant to today’s audiences without losing its core identity,” she said.

Produced by Chris Odeh, with Mohammed Sedik and Damilola Bamiloye serving as co-producers, Agbara Nla: The Return is directed by Damilola Bamiloye and Joshua “JayMikee” Bamiloye.

The executive producing team includes Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni, Kelechi Okoro, Chris Odeh and members of the Bamiloye family.

Bibowei-Osuobeni expressed confidence that the film would become a defining moment for faith-based storytelling in Africa, revealing that distribution discussions are advancing, including engagements with leading theatrical distributor Blue Pictures Limited.

She further added, “More than a movie, Agbara Nla: The Return is the revival of a legacy, a celebration of African faith-based storytelling and a bridge connecting generations. It is proof that truly great stories never lose their power; they simply wait for the right time to be told again,” she stated.